Associations Between Metabolic Syndrome and Long-Term Mortality in Patients who underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: An Australian Cohort Analysis

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) provides significant risk for coronary disease, however long-term prognosis after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has been understudied. We assessed the prevalence and outcomes of patients with MetS from an Australian PCI cohort. We retrospectively examined data from the Melbourne Interventional Group multicenter PCI registry using a modified definition for MetS including ≥3 of the following: hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and body mass index ≥30 kg/m2. Thirty-day outcomes and long-term mortality were compared with patients without MetS. Cox regression methods were used to assess the multivariable effect of MetS on long-term mortality. Of 41,146 patients, 12,228 (34%) had MetS. Patients with MetS experienced greater 30-day myocardial infarction (2.2% vs 1.8%, p = 0.013), whereas patients without MetS had a trend for greater 30-day mortality (3.0% vs 3.4%, p = 0.051) and greater in-hospital major bleeding (1.7% vs 2.4%, p <0.001). After a median follow-up of 5.62 years (Q1 2.03, Q3 8.89), patients with MetS experienced greater mortality (24% vs 19%, p <0.001). After adjustment, MetS was not an independent predictor of long-term mortality (hazard ratio 0.95 confidence interval 0.86 to 1.05, p = 0.35). In sensitivity analyses, MetS-Diabetic patients had the highest, and MetS-NonDiabetic obese patients had the lowest long-term mortality. One in 3 patients who underwent all-comer PCI presented with MetS and experienced greater long-term mortality compared with others. However, this association was lost after adjustment for baseline confounders, highlighting that MetS is a marker of risk after PCI. Our findings support the obesity paradox and confirm robust associations between diabetes mellitus and long-term mortality.

No-Reflow Prediction in Acute Coronary Syndrome During Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: The NORPACS Risk Score

BACKGROUND

Suboptimal coronary reperfusion (no reflow) is common in acute coronary syndrome percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and is associated with poor outcomes. We aimed to develop and externally validate a clinical risk score for angiographic no reflow for use following angiography and before PCI.

METHODS

We developed and externally validated a logistic regression model for prediction of no reflow among adult patients undergoing PCI for acute coronary syndrome using data from the Melbourne Interventional Group PCI registry (2005-2020; development cohort) and the British Cardiovascular Interventional Society PCI registry (2006-2020; external validation cohort).

RESULTS

A total of 30 561 patients (mean age, 64.1 years; 24% women) were included in the Melbourne Interventional Group development cohort and 440 256 patients (mean age, 64.9 years; 27% women) in the British Cardiovascular Interventional Society external validation cohort. The primary outcome (no reflow) occurred in 4.1% (1249 patients) and 9.4% (41 222 patients) of the development and validation cohorts, respectively. From 33 candidate predictor variables, 6 final variables were selected by an adaptive least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression model for inclusion (cardiogenic shock, ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction with symptom onset >195 minutes pre-PCI, estimated stent length ≥20 mm, vessel diameter <2.5 mm, pre-PCI Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction flow <3, and lesion location). Model discrimination was very good (development C statistic, 0.808; validation C statistic, 0.741) with excellent calibration. Patients with a score of ≥8 points had a 22% and 27% risk of no reflow in the development and validation cohorts, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The no-reflow prediction in acute coronary syndrome risk score is a simple count-based scoring system based on 6 parameters available before PCI to predict the risk of no reflow. This score could be useful in guiding preventative treatment and future trials.

Factors influencing the successful implementation of a novel digital health application to streamline multidisciplinary communication across multiple organisations for emergency care

RATIONALE

Delivering optimal patient health care requires interdisciplinary clinician communication. A single communication tool across multiple pre-hospital and hospital settings, and between hospital departments is a novel solution to current systems. Fit-for-purpose, secure smartphone applications allow clinical information to be shared quickly between health providers. Little is known as to what underpins their successful implementation in an emergency care context.

AIMS

To identify (a) whether implementing a single, digital health communication application across multiple health care organisations and hospital departments is feasible; (b) the barriers and facilitators to implementation; and (c) which factors are associated with clinicians' intentions to use the technology.

METHODS

We used a multimethod design, evaluating the implementation of a secure, digital communication application (Pulsara™). The technology was trialled in two Australian regional hospitals and 25 Ambulance Victoria branches (AV). Post-training, clinicians involved in treating patients with suspected stroke or cardiac events were administered surveys measuring perceived organisational readiness (Organisational Readiness for Implementing Change), clinicians' intentions (Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology) and internal motivations (Self-Determination Theory) to use Pulsara™, and the perceived benefits and barriers of use. Quantitative data were descriptively summarised with multivariable associations between factors and intentions to use Pulsara™ examined with linear regression. Qualitative data responses were subjected to directed content analysis (two coders).

RESULTS

Participants were paramedics (n = 82, median 44 years) or hospital-based clinicians (n = 90, median 37 years), with organisations perceived to be similarly ready. Regression results (F(11, 136) = 21.28, p = <0.001, Adj R2  = 0.60) indicated Habit, Effort Expectancy, Perceived Organisational Readiness, Performance Expectancy and Organisation membership (AV) as predictors of intending to use Pulsara™. Themes relating to benefits (95% coder agreement) included improved communication, procedural efficiencies and faster patient care. Barriers (92% coder agreement) included network accessibility and remembering passwords. PulsaraTM was initiated 562 times.

CONCLUSION

Implementing multiorganisational, digital health communication applications is feasible, and facilitated when organisations are change-ready for an easy-to-use, effective solution. Developing habitual use is key, supported through implementation strategies (e.g., hands-on training). Benefits should be emphasised (e.g., during education sessions), including streamlining communication and patient flow, and barriers addressed (e.g., identify champions and local technical support) at project commencement.

ECG predictors of AF: A systematic review (predicting AF in ischaemic stroke-PrAFIS)

In 25% of patients presenting with embolic stroke, a cause is not determined. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a commonly identified mechanism of stroke in this population, particularly in older patients. Conventional investigations are used to detect AF, but can we predict AF in this population and generally? We performed a systematic review to identify potential predictors of AF on 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG).

METHOD

We conducted a search of EMBASE and Medline databases for prospective and retrospective cohorts, meta-analyses or case-control studies of ECG abnormalities in sinus rhythm predicting subsequent atrial fibrillation. We assessed quality of studies based on the Newcastle-Ottawa scale and data were extracted according to PRISMA guidelines.

RESULTS

We identified 44 studies based on our criteria. ECG patterns that predicted the risk of developing AF included interatrial block, P-wave terminal force lead V1, P-wave dispersion, abnormal P-wave-axis, abnormal P-wave amplitude, prolonged PR interval, left ventricular hypertrophy, QT prolongation, ST-T segment abnormalities and atrial premature beats. Furthermore, we identified that factors such as increased age, high CHADS-VASC, chronic renal disease further increase the positive-predictive value of some of these parameters. Several of these have been successfully incorporated into clinical scoring systems to predict AF.

CONCLUSION

There are several ECG abnormalities that can predict AF both independently, and with improved predictive value when combined with clinical risk factors, and if incorporated into clinical risk scores. Improved and validated predictive models could streamline selection of patients for cardiac monitoring and initiation of oral anticoagulants.

Real-world long-term survival after non-emergent percutaneous coronary intervention to unprotected left main coronary artery - From the Melbourne Interventional Group (MIG) registry

BACKGROUND

Current evidence suggests that percutaneous coronary intervention for unprotected left main coronary artery disease (LMPCI) in selected patients is a safe alternative to coronary artery bypass grafting. However, real-world long-term survival data is limited.

METHODS

We analyzed 24,644 patients from the MIG (Melbourne Interventional Group) registry between 2005 and 2020. We compared baseline clinical and procedural characteristics, in-hospital and 30-day outcomes, and long-term survival between unprotected LMPCI and non-LMPCI among patients without ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, cardiogenic shock, or cardiac arrest.

RESULTS

Unprotected LMPCI patients (n = 185) were significantly older (mean age 72.0 vs. 64.6 years, p < 0.001), had higher prevalence of impaired ejection fraction (EF <50 %; 27.3 % vs. 14.9 %, p < 0.001) and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 ml/min/1.73m2 (40.9 % vs. 21.5 %, p < 0.001), and had greater use of intravascular ultrasound (21 % vs. 1 %, p < 0.001) and drug-eluting stents (p < 0.001). LMPCI was associated with longer hospital stay (4 days vs. 2 days, p < 0.001). There was no significant difference in other in-hospital outcomes, 30-day mortality (0.6 % vs. 0.6 %, p = 0.90), and major adverse cardiac events (1.7 % vs. 3 %, p = 0.28). Although the unadjusted Kaplan-Meier survival to 8 years was significantly less with LMPCI compared to non-LMPCI (p < 0.01), LMPCI was not a predictor of long-term survival up to 8 years after Cox regression analysis (HR 0.67, 95 % CI 0.40-1.13, p = 0.13).

CONCLUSION

In this study, non-emergent unprotected LMPCI was uncommonly performed, and IVUS was underutilized. Despite greater co-morbidities, LMPCI patients had comparable 30-day outcomes to non-LMPCI, and LMPCI was not an independent predictor of long-term mortality.

Sex Differences in Pharmacotherapy and Long-Term Outcomes in Patients With Ischaemic Heart Disease and Comorbid Left Ventricular Dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and ischaemic heart disease (IHD) are common among women. However, women tend to present later and are less likely to receive guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) compared with men.

METHODS

We analysed prospectively collected data (2005-2018) from a multicentre registry on GDMT 30 days after percutaneous coronary intervention in 13,015 patients with LV ejection fraction <50%. Guideline-directed medical therapy was defined as beta blocker, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker±mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist. Long-term mortality was determined by linkage with the Australian National Death Index.

RESULTS

Women represented 20% (2,634) of the total cohort. Mean age was 65±12 years. Women were on average >5 years, with higher body mass index and higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, renal dysfunction, prior stroke, and rheumatoid arthritis. Guideline-directed medical therapy was similar between sexes (73% vs 72%; p=0.58), although women were less likely to be on an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker (80% vs 82%; p=0.02). Women were less likely to be on statin therapy (p<0.001) or a second antiplatelet agent (p=0.007). Women had higher unadjusted long-term mortality (25% vs 19%; p<0.001); however, there were no differences in long-term mortality between sexes on adjusted analysis (hazard ratio 0.99; 95% confidence interval 0.87-1.14; p=0.94).

CONCLUSIONS

Rates of GDMT for LV dysfunction were high and similar between sexes; however, women were less likely to be on appropriate IHD secondary prevention. The increased unadjusted long-term mortality in women was attenuated in adjusted analysis, which highlights the need for optimisation of baseline risk to improve long-term outcomes of women with IHD and comorbid LV dysfunction.

Effect of Hydralazine on Angiotensin II-Induced Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in Apolipoprotein E-Deficient Mice

The rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) causes about 200,000 deaths worldwide each year. However, there are currently no effective drug therapies to prevent AAA formation or, when present, to decrease progression and rupture, highlighting an urgent need for more research in this field. Increased vascular inflammation and enhanced apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are implicated in AAA formation. Here, we investigated whether hydralazine, which has anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties, inhibited AAA formation and pathological hallmarks. In cultured VSMCs, hydralazine (100 μM) inhibited the increase in inflammatory gene expression and apoptosis induced by acrolein and hydrogen peroxide, two oxidants that may play a role in AAA pathogenesis. The anti-apoptotic effect of hydralazine was associated with a decrease in caspase 8 gene expression. In a mouse model of AAA induced by subcutaneous angiotensin II infusion (1 µg/kg body weight/min) for 28 days in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice, hydralazine treatment (24 mg/kg/day) significantly decreased AAA incidence from 80% to 20% and suprarenal aortic diameter by 32% from 2.26 mm to 1.53 mm. Hydralazine treatment also significantly increased the survival rate from 60% to 100%. In conclusion, hydralazine inhibited AAA formation and rupture in a mouse model, which was associated with its anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties.

Impact of Preprocedural Diastolic Blood Pressure on Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

BACKGROUND

Recent US guidelines recommend lower blood pressure (BP) targets in hypertension, but aggressive lowering of diastolic BP (DBP) can occur at the expense of myocardial perfusion, particularly in the presence of coronary artery disease. We sought to establish the long-term impact of low DBP on mortality among patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with well-controlled systolic BP.

METHODS

We analyzed data from 12 965 patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention between 2009 and 2018 from the Melbourne Interventional Group registry who had a preprocedural systolic BP of ≤140 mm Hg. Patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction, cardiogenic shock, and out-of-hospital arrest were excluded. Patients were stratified into 5 groups according to preprocedural DBP: <50, 50 to 59, 60 to 69, 70 to 79, and ≥80 mm Hg. The primary outcome was long-term, all-cause mortality. Mortality data were derived from the Australian National Death Index.

RESULTS

Patients with DBP<50 mm Hg were older with higher rates of diabetes, renal impairment, prior myocardial infarction, left ventricular dysfunction, peripheral and cerebrovascular disease (all P<0.001). Patients with DBP<50 mm Hg had higher 30-day (2.5% versus 0.7% for the other 4 quintiles; P<0.0001) and long-term mortality (median, 3.6 years; follow-up, 29% versus 11%; P<0.0001). Cox-regression analysis revealed that DBP<50 mm Hg was an independent predictor of long-term mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.55 [95% CI, 1.20-2.00]; P=0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with well-controlled systolic BP undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention, low DBP (<50 mm Hg) is an independent predictor of long-term mortality.

Sympathetic Nervous System and Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is characterized by the narrowing of the arterial lumen due to subendothelial lipid accumulation, with hypercholesterolemia being a major risk factor. Despite the recent advances in effective lipid-lowering therapies, atherosclerosis remains the leading cause of mortality globally, highlighting the need for additional therapeutic strategies. Accumulating evidence suggests that the sympathetic nervous system plays an important role in atherosclerosis. In this article, we reviewed the sympathetic innervation in the vasculature, norepinephrine synthesis and metabolism, sympathetic activity measurement, and common signaling pathways of sympathetic activation. The focus of this paper was to review the effectiveness of pharmacological antagonists or agonists of adrenoceptors (α1, α2, β1, β2, and β3) and renal denervation on atherosclerosis. All five types of adrenoceptors are present in arterial blood vessels. α1 blockers inhibit atherosclerosis but increase the risk of heart failure while α2 agonism may protect against atherosclerosis and newer generations of β blockers and β3 agonists are promising therapies against atherosclerosis; however, new randomized controlled trials are warranted to investigate the effectiveness of these therapies in atherosclerosis inhibition and cardiovascular risk reduction in the future. The role of renal denervation in atherosclerosis inhibition in humans is yet to be established.

Outcomes of thrombus aspiration during primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-elevation myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Previous large multi-centre randomised controlled trials have not provided clear benefit with routine intracoronary thrombus aspiration (TA) as an adjunct to primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

AIM

To determine whether there is a difference in outcomes with the use of manual TA prior to PCI, compared with PCI alone in a cohort of patients with STEMI.

METHODS

We analysed data from 6270 consecutive patients undergoing primary PCI for STEMI prospectively enrolled in the Melbourne Interventional Group registry between 2007 and 2018. Multivariable analysis was performed to determine predictors of 30-day major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) and long-term mortality.

RESULTS

We compared 1621 (26%) patients undergoing primary PCI with TA to 4649 (74%) patients undergoing PCI alone. Male gender (81% vs 78%; P < 0.01), younger age (61 vs 63 years; P = 0.03), GP-IIb/IIIa use (76% vs 58%, P < 0.01), and current smoking (40% vs 36%; P < 0.01) were more common in the TA group. TA was more likely to be used in patients with complex lesions (83% vs 66%; P < 0.01) with TIMI 0 flow (77% vs 56%; P < 0.01). No significant difference in post-procedural TIMI flow, stroke, 30-day mortality, or long-term mortality were identified. Multivariable analysis demonstrated a reduction in 30-day MACCE (hazard ratio (HR) 0.75; confidence interval (CI) 0.63-0.89; P < 0.01) in the TA group, but was not associated with long-term mortality (HR 0.98; CI 0.85-1.1; P = 0.73).

CONCLUSION

The use of TA in patients undergoing primary PCI for STEMI was not associated with improved short or long-term mortality when compared with PCI alone.

Optimising adherence to secondary prevention medications following acute coronary syndrome utilising telehealth cardiology pharmacist clinics: a matched cohort study

BACKGROUND

Adherence to secondary prevention medications following acute coronary syndromes (ACS) is a predictor of future major adverse cardiovascular events. Underutilisation of these medications is associated with higher risk of major adverse cardiovascular events globally.

AIM

To explore the effects of a telehealth cardiology pharmacist clinic on patient adherence to secondary prevention medications in the 12 months following ACS.

METHOD

Retrospective matched cohort study within a large regional health service comparing patient populations before and after implementation of pharmacist clinic with 12-month follow up. Patients who received percutaneous coronary intervention for ACS were consulted by the pharmacist at 1, 3- and 12-months. Matching criteria included age, sex, presence of left ventricular dysfunction and ACS type. Primary outcome was difference in adherence in adherence at 12 months post ACS. Secondary outcomes included major adverse cardiovascular events at 12 months and validation of self-reported adherence using medication possession ratios from pharmacy dispensing records.

RESULTS

There were 156 patients in this study (78 matched pairs). Analysis of adherence at 12 months demonstrated an absolute increase in adherence by 13% (31 vs. 44%, p = 0.038). Furthermore, sub-optimal medical therapy (less than 3 ACS medication groups at 12 months) reduced by 23% (31 vs. 8%, p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

This novel intervention significantly improved adherence to secondary prevention medications at 12 months, a demonstrated contributor to clinical outcomes. Primary and secondary outcomes in the intervention group were both statistically significant. Pharmacist-led follow up improves adherence and patient outcomes.

Trends in Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump Use in Cardiogenic Shock After the SHOCK-II Trial

Myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock (MI-CS) has a poor prognosis, even with early revascularization. Previously, intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) use was thought to improve outcomes, but the IABP-SHOCK-II (Intra-aortic Balloon Pump in Cardiogenic Shock-II study) trial found no survival benefit. We aimed to determine the trends in IABP use in patients who underwent percutaneous intervention over time. Data were taken from patients in the Melbourne Interventional Group registry (2005 to 2018) with MI-CS who underwent percutaneous intervention. The primary outcome was the trend in IABP use over time. The secondary outcomes included 30-day mortality and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs). Of the 1,110 patients with MI-CS, IABP was used in 478 patients (43%). IABP was used more in patients with left main/left anterior descending culprit lesions (62% vs 46%), lower ejection fraction (<35%; 18% vs 11%), and preprocedural inotrope use (81% vs 73%, all p <0.05). IABP use was associated with higher bleeding (18% vs 13%) and 30-day MACCE (58% vs 51%, both p <0.05). The rate of MI-CS per year increased over time; however, after 2012, there was a decrease in IABP use (p <0.001). IABP use was a predictor of 30-day MACCE (odds ratio 1.6, 95% confidence interval 1.18 to 2.29, p = 0.003). However, IABP was not associated with in-hospital, 30-day, or long-term mortality (45% vs 47%, p = 0.44; 46% vs 50%, p = 0.25; 60% vs 62%, p = 0.39). In conclusion, IABP was not associated with reduced short- or long-term mortality and was associated with increased short-term adverse events. IABP use is decreasing but is predominately used in sicker patients with greater myocardium at risk.

Trends and Real-World Safety of Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Symptomatic Stable Ischaemic Heart Disease in Australia

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in stable ischaemic heart disease (SIHD) has not been shown to improve prognosis but can alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Appropriately selected patients with symptoms refractory to medical therapy therefore stand to benefit, provided safety is proven.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing PCI for SIHD between 2005-2018 in a prospective registry were included. Yearly comparisons evaluated trends, and a sub-analysis was performed comparing proximal left anterior descending artery (prox-LAD) to other-than-proximal LAD (non-pLAD) PCI. Outcomes included peri-procedural characteristics, in-hospital and 30-day event rates including MACE, and 5-year National Death Index (NDI) linked mortality.

RESULTS

There were 9,421 procedures included. Over time, patients were increasingly co-morbid and had higher rates of AHA/ACC class B2/C lesions, ostial stenoses, bifurcation lesions, and chronic total occlusions (all p-for-trend ≤0.001). Over 14 years, major bleeding reduced (1.05% in 2005/06 vs 0.29% in 2017/18, p-for-trend <0.001), while other in-hospital and 30-day event rates were stably low. There were only seven (0.07%) in hospital deaths and 5-year mortality was 10.3%. No differences were found in outcomes between patients who underwent prox-LAD compared to non-pLAD PCI. Major independent predictors of NDI linked all-cause mortality included an eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m² (HR 4.06, 95% CI 3.26-5.06), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (HR 2.25, 95% CI 1.89-2.67) and LVEF <30% (HR 2.13, 95% CI 1.57-2.89).

CONCLUSIONS

Although patient and procedural complexity increased over time, a high degree of procedural success and safety was maintained, including in those undergoing prox-LAD PCI. These real-world data can enhance shared decision making discussions regarding whether PCI should be pursued in patients with symptomatic SIHD refractory to medical therapy.

Associations between DAPT score and long-term mortality post PCI

Introduction

The dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) score was developed to identify patients more likely to derive benefit (score ≥2) or harm (score &lt;2) from DAPT beyond 1-year post PCI. There is no study which looked at the DAPT score and long term outcomes post PCI in Australia.

Purpose

We sought to examine long-term mortality after PCI by the DAPT score in patients treated with DAPT per local guidelines.

Methods

We examined data from the MIG PCI database from 2005 to 2018 in whom the DAPT score could be derived and grouped them as score ≥2 or &lt;2. Long-term mortality was assessed from National Death Index linkage. The primary endpoint was long-term mortality examined using survival analysis. Secondary endpoints included 30-day ischaemic outcomes and in-hospital major bleeding.

Results

Out of 27,740 patients in the study, 9,401 (33.9%) had DAPT score ≥2. They were younger and included more females and higher prevalence of renal impairment. DAPT score ≥2 patients had higher in-hospital major bleeding, 30-day mortality, MI and target vessel revascularisation. DAPT score ≥2 patients had lower long-term survival to 12 years (p&lt;0.001 for all).

Conclusion

A third of all-comer PCI patients had DAPT score ≥2 with greater short-term risk of ischaemic and bleeding outcomes, as well as long-term mortality. Theoretically, those with DAPT score ≥2 would benefit from longer duration of DAPT as ischaemic risk outweighs bleeding risk. However, given our finding of increased short-term bleeding risk and long-term mortality, dynamic bleeding risk assessment should be undertaken to guide pharmacotherapy strategies.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Real-world, feasibility study to investigate the use of a multidisciplinary app (Pulsara) to improve prehospital communication and timelines for acute stroke/STEMI care

OBJECTIVES

To determine if a digital communication app improves care timelines for patients with suspected acute stroke/ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

DESIGN

Real-world feasibility study, quasi-experimental design.

SETTING

Prehospital (25 Ambulance Victoria branches) and within-hospital (2 hospitals) in regional Victoria, Australia.

PARTICIPANTS

Paramedics or emergency department (ED) clinicians identified patients with suspected acute stroke (onset <4.5 hours; n=604) or STEMI (n=247).

INTERVENTION

The Pulsara communication app provides secure, two-way, real-time communication. Assessment and treatment times were recorded for 12 months (May 2017-April 2018), with timelines compared between 'Pulsara initiated' (Pulsara) and 'not initiated' (no Pulsara).

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE

Door-to-treatment (needle for stroke, balloon for STEMI) Secondary outcome measures: ambulance and hospital processes.

RESULTS

Stroke (no Pulsara n=215, Pulsara n=389) and STEMI (no Pulsara n=76, Pulsara n=171) groups were of similar age and sex (stroke: 76 vs 75 years; both groups 50% male; STEMI: 66 vs 63 years; 68% and 72% male). When Pulsara was used, patients were off ambulance stretcher faster for stroke (11(7, 17) vs 19(11, 29); p=0.0001) and STEMI (14(7, 23) vs 19(10, 32); p=0.0014). ED door-to-first medical review was faster (6(2, 14) vs 23(8, 67); p=0.0001) for stroke but only by 1 min for STEMI (3 (0, 7) vs 4 (0, 14); p=0.25). Door-to-CT times were 44 min faster (27(18, 44) vs 71(43, 147); p=0.0001) for stroke, and percutaneous intervention door-to-balloon times improved by 17 min, but non-significant (56 (34, 88) vs 73 (49, 110); p=0.41) for STEMI. There were improvements in the proportions of patients treated within 60 min for stroke (12%-26%, p=0.15) and 90 min for STEMI (50%-78%, p=0.20).

CONCLUSIONS

In this Australian-first study, uptake of the digital communication app was strong, patient-centred care timelines improved, although door-to-treatment times remained similar.

Health literacy and long-term health outcomes following myocardial infarction: protocol for a multicentre, prospective cohort study (ENHEARTEN study)

INTRODUCTION

Low health literacy is common in people with cardiovascular disease and may be one factor that affects an individual's ability to maintain secondary prevention health behaviours following myocardial infarction (MI). However, little is known about the association between health literacy and longer-term health outcomes in people with MI. The ENhancing HEAlth literacy in secondary pRevenTion of cardiac evENts (ENHEARTEN) study aims to examine the relationship between health literacy and a number of health outcomes (including healthcare costs) in a cohort of patients following their first MI. Findings may provide evidence for the significance of health literacy as a predictor of long-term cardiac outcomes.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

ENHEARTEN is a multicentre, prospective observational study in a convenience sample of adults (aged >18 years) with their first MI. A total of 450 patients will be recruited over 2 years across two metropolitan health services and one rural/regional health service in Victoria, Australia. The primary outcome of this study will be all-cause, unplanned hospital admissions within 6 months of index admission. Secondary outcomes include cardiac-related hospital admissions up to 24 months post-MI, emergency department presentations, health-related quality of life, mortality, cardiac rehabilitation attendance and healthcare costs. Health literacy will be observed as a predictor variable and will be determined using the 12-item version of the European Health Literacy Survey (HLS-Q12).

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval for this study has been received from the relevant human research ethics committee (HREC) at each of the participating health services (lead site Monash Health HREC; approval number: RES-21-0000-242A) and Services Australia HREC (reference number: RMS1672). Informed written consent will be sought from all participants. Study results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and collated in reports for participating health services and participants.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12621001224819.

Adverse 30-Day Clinical Outcomes and Long-Term Mortality Among Patients With Preprocedural Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

OBJECTIVES

Approximately 5-10% of patients presenting for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) have concurrent atrial fibrillation (AF). To what extent AF portends adverse long-term outcomes in these patients remains to be defined.

METHODS

We analysed data from the multicentre Melbourne Interventional Group Registry from 2014-2018. Patients were identified as being in AF or sinus rhythm (SR) at the commencement of PCI. The primary endpoint was long-term mortality, obtained via linkage with the National Death Index.

RESULTS

13,286 procedures were included, with 800 (6.0%) patients in AF and 12,486 (94.0%) in SR. Compared to SR, patients with AF were older (72.9±10.9 vs 64.1±12.0 p<0.001) and more likely to have comorbidities including diabetes mellitus (31.3% vs 25.0% p<0.001), hypertension (74.4% vs 65.1% p<0.001) and moderate to severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction (36.6% vs 19.5% p<0.001). Atrial fibrillation was associated with an increased risk of in-hospital mortality (11.0% vs 2.5% p<0.001) and MACE (composite of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, or target vessel revascularisation) (11.9% vs 4.2% p<0.001). In-hospital major bleeding was more common in the AF group (3.1% vs 1.0% p<0.001). On Cox proportional hazards modelling, AF was an independent predictor of long-term mortality (adjusted HR 1.38 95% CI 1.11-1.72 p<0.004) at a mean follow-up of 2.3±1.5 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Preprocedural AF is common among patients presenting for PCI. Preprocedural AF is associated with high-rates of comorbid illnesses and portends higher risk of short- and long-term outcomes including mortality underscoring the need for careful evaluation of its risks prior to PCI.

Long-term mortality in asymptomatic patients with stable ischemic heart disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention

OBJECTIVES

Patients with stable ischemic heart disease (SIHD) may present with a variety of symptoms including typical angina, angina equivalents such as dyspnea or no symptoms. We sought to determine whether symptom status affects periprocedural safety and long-term mortality in patients undergoing PCI.

METHODS

Prospectively enrolled consecutive patients undergoing PCI for SIHD at six hospitals in Australia between 2005 to 2018 as part of the Melbourne Interventional Group registry. Symptom status was recorded at the time of PCI and patients undergoing staged PCI were excluded.

RESULTS

Overall, 11,730 patients with SIHD were followed up for a median period of 5 years (maximum 14.0 years, interquartile range 2.2-9.0 years) with 1,317 (11.2%) being asymptomatic. Asymptomatic patients were older, and more likely to be male, have triple-vessel disease, with multiple comorbidities including renal failure, diabetes and heart failure (all P < .01). These patients had significantly higher rates of periprocedural complications and major adverse cardiovascular events at 30-days. Long-term mortality was significantly higher in asymptomatic patients (27.2% vs 18.0%, P < .001). On cox regression for long-term mortality, after adjustment for more important clinical variables, asymptomatic status was an independent predictor (Hazard ratio (HR) 1.39 95% CI 1.16-1.66, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

In a real-world cohort of patients undergoing revascularization for SIHD, absence of symptoms was associated with higher rates of periprocedural complications and, after adjustment for more important clinical variables, was an independent predictor of long-term mortality. As the primary goal of revascularization in SIHD remains angina relief, the appropriateness of PCI in the absence of symptoms warrants justification.

Health-related quality of life following percutaneous coronary intervention during the COVID-19 pandemic

Purpose

During the COVID-19 pandemic, widespread public health measures were implemented to control community transmission. The association between these measures and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among patients following percutaneous coronary intervention has not been studied.

Methods

We included consecutive patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in the state-wide Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry between 1/3/2020 and 30/9/2020 (COVID-19 period; n = 5024), with a historical control group from the identical period one year prior (control period; n = 5041). HRQOL assessment was performed via telephone follow-up 30 days following PCI using the 3-level EQ-5D questionnaire and Australian-specific index values.

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar between groups, but during the COVID-19 period indication for PCI was more common for acute coronary syndromes. No patients undergoing PCI were infected with COVID-19 at the time of their procedure. EQ-5D visual analogue score (VAS), index score, and individual components were higher at 30 days following PCI during the COVID-19 period (all P < 0.01). In multivariable analysis, the COVID-19 period was independently associated with higher VAS and index scores. No differences were observed between regions or stage of restrictions in categorical analysis. Similarly, in subgroup analysis, no significant interactions were observed.

Conclusion

Measures of HRQOL following PCI were higher during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the previous year. These data suggest that challenging community circumstances may not always be associated with poor patient quality of life.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11136-021-03056-0.

Outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with prior coronary artery bypass grafting (cabg)

Background

In patients with prior CABG requiring subsequent PCI there is uncertainty whether bypass grafts or native coronary arteries should be targeted.

Methods

We analysed data from 2,764 patients with prior CABG in the Melbourne Interventional Group registry (2005–2018), divided into two groups: those undergoing PCI to a native vessel (n=1,928) and those with PCI to a graft vessel (n=836).

Results

Patients with a graft vessel PCI were older, had more high-risk clinical characteristics (prior MI, heart failure, ejection fraction &lt;50%, renal impairment, peripheral and cerebrovascular disease), and high-risk procedural features (ACC/AHA types B2/C lesions). However, patients in the native vessel group were more likely to have PCI to a chronic total occlusion. The majority of graft PCI were to saphenous vein grafts (84%), with 10% to radial and 6% to LIMA/RIMA grafts. Distal embolic protection devices were used in 30% of graft PCI. Patients with graft PCI had higher rates of no reflow (6.3% vs. 1.5%; p&lt;0.001), coronary perforation (p=0.016) and inpatient stent thrombosis (p=0.028). However, 30-day mortality and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) were similar. Unadjusted long-term mortality (median follow up 4.8 years) was higher in patients who had undergone a graft PCI (44% vs. 32%, p&lt;0.001), but following Cox proportional hazards modelling, PCI vessel type was not a predictor of long-term mortality (HR 1.13; 95% CI 0.96–1.33, p=0.14).

Conclusions

Early clinical outcomes and risk-adjusted long-term mortality are similar for patients with prior CABG undergoing PCI to a native vessel or a bypass graft.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): The Alfred Hospital

Trends in intra-aortic balloon pump use in cardiogenic shock in the post-SHOCK II trial era

Background

Myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock (MI-CS) has a poor prognosis, even with early revascularisation. Previously, intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) use was thought to improve outcomes, but the SHOCK-II trial in 2012 found no survival benefit.

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the trends in IABP use in patients with MI-CS undergoing percutaneous intervention (PCI) over time and characteristics associated with use.

Methods

Between 2005–2018, patients presenting with MI-CS that underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) at a hospital participating in the Melbourne Interventional Group Registry were included. The primary outcome was the trend in IABP use over time. Secondary outcomes included mortality, 30-day MACCE (major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events) and predictors of outcome, determined via logistic regression.

Results

Of the 1,110 patients identified, IABP was used in 478 (43%). IABP was used more in patients with left main and left anterior descending culprit lesions (62% vs. 46%), lower ejection fraction (&lt;35%; 18% vs. 11%), and pre-procedural inotrope use (81% vs. 73%), all p&lt;0.05. IABP use was associated with higher inpatient bleeding (18% vs. 13%) and 30-day MACCE (58% vs. 51%), both p&lt;0.05. The rate of MI-CS increased over time, but after 2012 there was a decline in IABP use (Figure 1). IABP use was a predictor of 30-day MACCE (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.18–2.29, p=0.003). However, IABP was not associated with in-hospital, 30-day or long-term mortality (45% vs. 47%, p=0.44; 46% vs. 50%, p=0.25; 60% vs. 62%, p=0.39).

Conclusions

Consistent with the SHOCK II trial, IABP use is not associated with reduced short- or long-term mortality, but in this study was associated with increased short-term adverse events. IABP use is declining, but is still used in sicker patients with greater myocardium at risk, given limited alternatives.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Melbourne interventional group

Totally Occluded Culprit Coronary Artery in Patients with Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

The short- and long-term implications of identifying totally occluded culprit coronary arteries (TOCCA) in patients presenting with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) have not been well studied. This study compares clinical characteristics, short- and long-term outcomes of patients with NSTEMI identified with TOCCA to that of patients with non-TOCCA undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We analyzed data from patients with NSTEMI undergoing single-vessel PCI within the Melbourne Interventional Group multi-center registry between 2005 and 2017. Those with TOCCA were compared to those with non-TOCCA. The primary endpoint was 30-day major adverse cardiac events (MACE). Secondary endpoints included 12-month MACE and long-term mortality. A total of 6,829 patients with NSTEMI had single-vessel PCI of which 954 (14%) had TOCCA. Most TOCCA were non-left anterior descending (right coronary artery 39% versus circumflex 33% versus left anterior descending 26%; p <0.001). Cardiogenic shock and left ventricular dysfunction were higher in the TOCCA group, but non-TOCCA patients had more baseline comorbidities. Thirty-day MACE was higher in the TOCCA group (6.7% versus 3.8%; p <0.001). Long-term mortality with an average follow-up of 4.9 years was higher in the non-TOCCA group (12% versus 18%, p <0.01). Multivariable Cox-proportional hazards regression identified TOCCA as an independent predictor of 30-day MACE (HR = 1.93; 95%CI: 1.4-2.6), but not long-term mortality, which was predicted by baseline comorbidities. In conclusion, while patients with NSTEMI with TOCCA undergoing PCI represent a more unstable subgroup early on, long-term outcomes appear more dependent on baseline comorbidities.

Comparison of Outcomes of Coronary Artery Disease Treated by Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in 3 Different Age Groups (<45, 46-65, and >65 Years)

There is paucity of data examining long-term outcomes of premature coronary artery disease (CAD). We aimed to investigate the short- and long-term clinical outcomes of patients with premature CAD treated by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) compared to older cohorts. We analyzed data from 27,869 patients who underwent PCI from 2005-2017 enrolled in a multicenter PCI registry. Patients were divided into three age groups: young group (≤ 45 years), middle-age group (46-65 years) and older group (>65 years). There were higher rates of current smokers in the young (n = 1,711) compared to the middle-age (n = 12,830) and older groups (n = 13,328) (54.2% vs 34.6% vs 11%) and the young presented more frequently with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) (78% vs 66% vs 62%), all p <0.05. There were also greater rates of cardiogenic shock (CS), out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in the young, all p <0.05. The young cohort with STEMI had higher rates of in-hospital, 30-day death, and long-term mortality (3.8% vs 0.2%, 4.3% vs 0.2% and 8.6% vs 3.1%, all p <0.05, respectively) compared to the non-STEMI subgroup. There was a stepwise increase in long-term mortality from the young, to middle-age, to the older group (6.1% vs 9.9% vs 26.8%, p <0.001). Younger age was an independent predictor of lower long-term mortality (HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.52-0.84, p = 0.001). In conclusion, younger patients presenting with STEMI had worse prognosis compared to those presenting with non-STEMI. Despite higher risk presentations among young patients, their overall prognosis was favorable compared to older age groups.

Differences in outcome of percutaneous coronary intervention between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Victoria, Australia: a multicentre, prospective, observational, cohort study

BACKGROUND

Data on the patient characteristics and health outcomes of Indigenous Australians having revascularisation for treatment of coronary artery disease are scarce. The aim of this study was to assess differences in patient characteristics, presentations, and outcomes among Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians having percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in urban and larger regional centres in Victoria, Australia.

METHODS

In this multicentre, prospective, observational cohort study, data were prospectively collected from six government-funded tertiary hospitals in the state of Victoria, Australia. The Melbourne Interventional Group PCI registry was used to identify patients having PCI at Victorian metropolitan and large regional hospitals between Jan 1, 2005, and Dec 31, 2018. The primary outcome was long-term mortality. Secondary outcomes were 30 day mortality and 30 day major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as a composite endpoint of death, myocardial infarction, and target-vessel revascularisation. Regression analyses, adjusted for clinically relevant covariates and geographical and socioeconomic indices, were used to establish the influence of Indigenous status on these study outcomes.

FINDINGS

41 146 patient procedures were entered into the registry, of whom 179 (0·4%) were recorded as identifying as Indigenous Australian, 39 855 (96·9%) were not Indigenous Australian, and 1112 (2·7%) had incomplete data regarding ethnicity and were excluded. Compared with their non-Indigenous counterparts, Indigenous patients were younger, more often women, and more likely to have comorbidities. Indigenous Australians were also more likely to live in a regional community and areas of socioeconomic disadvantage. Procedural success and complication rates were similar for Indigenous and non-Indigenous patients having PCI. At 30 day follow-up, Indigenous Australians were more likely to be taking optimal medical therapy, although overall follow-up rates were lower and prevalence of persistent smoking was higher. Multivariable analysis showed that Indigenous status was independently associated with increased risk of long-term mortality (hazard ratio 2·49, 95% CI 1·79-3·48; p<0·0001), 30 day mortality (odds ratio 2·78, 95% CI 1·09-7·12; p=0·033), and 30-day MACE (odds ratio 1·87, 95% CI 1·03-3·39; p=0·039).

INTERPRETATION

Indigenous Australians having PCI in urban and larger regional centres are at increased risk of mortality and adverse cardiac events. Clinically effective and culturally safe care pathways are urgently needed to improve health outcomes among Indigenous Australians who are having PCI.

FUNDING

National Health and Medical Research Council, National Heart Foundation.

Comparison of Long-Term Outcomes After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients With Insulin-Treated Versus Non-Insulin Treated Diabetes Mellitus

There are conflicting data on whether patients with insulin-treated diabetes mellitus (ITDM) have poorer outcomes compared with non-insulin treated diabetic (non-ITDM) patients following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We therefore compared clinical outcomes following PCI in ITDM versus non-ITDM patients. We prospectively collected data on 4,579 patients with diabetes underwent PCI between 2005 and 2014 in a large multicenter registry and dichotomized them as having ITDM (n = 1,111) or non-ITDM (n = 3,468). The non-ITDM group was further divided into diet control only (diet-DM; n = 786) and those taking oral hypoglycemic agents (OHG-DM; n = 2,639), and clinical outcomes were compared with ITDM patients. Median follow-up for long-term mortality was 4.2 years (IQR 2.0 to 6.6 years). ITDM patients were more likely to be female, obese, and have severe renal impairment (all p <0.001). Procedural characteristics were similar other than a greater use of drug-eluting stents in ITDM patients. On multivariable analysis, ITDM was an independent predictor of 12-month major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE; OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.02 to1.55, p = 0.03). Dividing the non-ITDM group further by treatment, a progressively higher rate of 12-month MACCE across the 3 groups was observed (13.5% vs 17.9% vs 21.8%; p <0.001). Long-term mortality was similar in the diet-DM and OHG-DM groups, but significantly higher in the ITDM group on Kaplan-Meier analysis (log-rank p <0.001). In conclusion, there is a clear gradient of adverse outcomes with escalation of therapy from diet control to OHGs to insulin.

Rescue PCI in the management of STEMI: Contemporary results from the Melbourne Interventional Group registry

Background

Fibrinolysis is an important reperfusion strategy in the management of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) when timely access to primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) is unavailable. Rescue PCI is generally thought to have worse outcomes than PPCI in STEMI. We aimed to determine short- and long-term outcomes of patients with rescue PCI versus PPCI for treatment of STEMI.

Methods and results

Patients admitted with STEMI (excluding out-of-hospital cardiac arrest) within the Melbourne Interventional Group (MIG) registry between 2005 and 2018 treated with either rescue PCI or PPCI were included in this retrospective cohort analysis. Comparison of 30-day major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and long-term mortality between the two groups was performed. There were 558 patients (7.1%) with rescue PCI and 7271 with PPCI. 30-day all-cause mortality (rescue PCI 6% vs. PPCI 5%, p = 0.47) and MACE (rescue PCI 10.3% vs. PPCI 8.9%, p = 0.26) rates were similar between the two groups. Rates of in-hospital major bleeding (rescue PCI 6% vs. PPCI 3.4%, p = 0.002) and 30-day stroke (rescue PCI 2.2% vs. PPCI 0.8%, p < 0.001) were higher following rescue PCI. The odds ratio for haemorrhagic stroke in the rescue PCI group was 10.3. Long-term mortality was not significantly different between the groups (rescue PCI 20% vs. PPCI 19%, p = 0.33).

Conclusions

With contemporary interventional techniques and medical therapy, rescue PCI remains a valuable strategy for treating patients with failed fibrinolysis where PPCI is unavailable and it has been suggested in extenuating circumstances where alternative revascularisation strategies are considered.

Sex Disparity In Secondary Prevention Pharmacotherapy And Clinical Outcomes Following Acute Coronary Syndrome

Aims

We sought to investigate if sex disparity exists for secondary prevention pharmacotherapy following acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and impact on long-term clinical outcomes.

Methods and results

We analysed data on medical management 30-day post-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ACS in 20 976 patients within the multicentre Melbourne Interventional Group registry (2005–2017). Optimal medical therapy (OMT) was defined as five guideline-recommended medications, near-optimal medical therapy (NMT) as four medications, sub-optimal medical therapy (SMT) as ≤3 medications. Overall, 65% of patients received OMT, 27% NMT and 8% SMT. Mean age was 64 ± 12 years; 24% (4931) were female. Women were older (68 ± 12 vs. 62 ± 12 years) and had more comorbidities. Women were less likely to receive OMT (61% vs. 66%) and more likely to receive SMT (10% vs. 8%) compared to men, P &lt; 0.001. On long-term follow-up (median 5 years, interquartile range 2–8 years), women had higher unadjusted mortality (20% vs. 13%, P &lt; 0.001). However, after adjusting for medical therapy and baseline risk, women had lower long-term mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 0.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.79–0.98; P = 0.02]. NMT (HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.05–1.31; P = 0.004) and SMT (HR 1.79, 95% CI 1.55–2.07; P &lt; 0.001) were found to be independent predictors of long-term mortality.

Conclusion

Women are less likely to be prescribed optimal secondary prevention medications following PCI for ACS. Lower adjusted long-term mortality amongst women suggests that as well as baseline differences between gender, optimization of secondary prevention medical therapy amongst women can lead to improved outcomes. This highlights the need to focus on minimizing the gap in secondary prevention pharmacotherapy between sexes following ACS.

Outcomes of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common inflammatory arthritis and is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. Evidence regarding outcomes following PCI is limited. This study aimed to assess differences in outcomes following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) between patients with and without RA. The Melbourne Interventional Group PCI registry (2005 to 2018) was used to identify 756 patients with RA. Outcomes were compared with the remaining cohort (n = 38,579). Patients with RA were older, more often female, with higher rates of hypertension, previous stroke, peripheral vascular disease, obstructive sleep apnea, chronic lung disease, myocardial infarction, and renal impairment, whereas rates of dyslipidemia and current smoking were lower, all p <0.05. Lesions in patients with RA were more frequently complex (ACC/AHA type B2/C), requiring longer stents, with higher rates of no reflow, all p <0.05. Risk of long-term mortality, adjusted for potential confounders, was higher for patients with RA (hazard ratio 1.53, 95% confidence interval 1.30 to 1.80; median follow-up 5.0 years), whereas 30-day outcomes including mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events, bleeding, stroke, myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass surgery, and target vessel revascularization were similar. In subgroup analysis, patients with RA and lower BMI (P_{for interaction} < 0.001) and/or acute coronary syndromes (P_{for interaction} = 0.05) had disproportionately higher risk of long-term mortality compared with patients without RA. In conclusion, patients with RA who underwent PCI had more co-morbidities and longer, complex coronary lesions. Risk of short-term adverse outcomes was similar, whereas risk of long-term mortality was higher, especially among patients with acute coronary syndromes and lower body mass index.

Effect of Age on Clinical Outcomes in Elderly Patients (>80 Years) Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Insights From a Multi-Centre Australian PCI Registry

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of age in an all-comers population undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

BACKGROUND

Age is an important consideration in determining appropriateness for invasive cardiac assessment and perceived clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We analysed data from 29,012 consecutive patients undergoing PCI in the Melbourne Interventional Group (MIG) registry between 2005 and 2017. 25,730 patients <80 year old (78% male, mean age 62±10 years; non-elderly cohort) were compared to 3,282 patients ≥80 year old (61% male, mean age 84±3 years; elderly cohort).

RESULTS

The elderly cohort had greater prevalence of hypertension, diabetes and previous myocardial infarction (all p<0.001). Elderly patients were more likely to present with acute coronary syndromes, left ventricular ejection fraction <45% and chronic kidney disease (p<0.0001). In-hospital, 30-day and long-term all-cause mortality (over a median of 3.6 and 5.1 years for elderly and non-elderly cohorts, respectively) were higher in the elderly cohort (5.2% vs. 1.9%; 6.4% vs. 2.2%; and 43% vs. 14% respectively, all p<0.0001). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <30 mL/min/1.73 m² (HR 3.8, 95% CI: 3.4-4.3), cardiogenic shock (HR 3.0, 95% CI: 2.6-3.4), ejection fraction <30% (HR 2.5, 95% CI: 2.1-2.9); and age ≥80 years (HR 2.8, 95% CI: 2.6-3.1) were independent predictors of long-term all-cause mortality (all p<0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The elderly cohort is a high-risk group of patients with increasing age being associated with poorer long-term mortality. Age, thus, should be an important consideration when individualising treatment in elderly patients.

Long-term outcomes following percutaneous coronary intervention for patients with rheumatoid arthritis

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common inflammatory arthritis and is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events and mortality. Despite this, data regarding long-term outcomes following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are limited.

Methods

We identified 756 patients with RA from the Melbourne Interventional Group PCI registry (2005–2018) and compared outcomes to the remaining cohort (N=38,579). Cox regression analysis was performed to assess risk of adverse cardiac events including long-term mortality (derived from linkage with the National Death Index [NDI]).

Results

Patients with RA were older (68.9±10.0 vs. 64.6±12.0 years) and more often female (40% vs. 23%), with higher rates of hypertension (70% vs 67%), previous stroke (9% vs 6%), peripheral vascular disease (9% vs 6%), obstructive sleep apnoea (10% vs 5%), chronic lung disease (22% vs 12%), prior myocardial infarction (32% vs 27%), and impaired renal function (eGFR&lt;60 ml/min/1.73m2 in 31% vs 24%), while rates of current smoking were lower (20% vs. 25%), all p&lt;0.05. Lesions were more frequently complex (ACC/AHA type B2/C in 61% vs 57%), required longer stents (&gt;20mm in 39% vs 35%), and rates of no reflow were higher (5% vs 3%), all p&lt;0.05. 30-day mortality was higher (4.4% vs. 3.3%, p=0.04) mainly owing to higher non-cardiac mortality (1.6% vs. 0.8%, p=0.01). National Death Index-linked long-term mortality was 28% vs. 19% (p&lt;0.01) with mean follow-up 4.6 vs. 5.4 years. Risk of 30-day and long-term mortality (including by indication subgroup) are presented in the Table.

Conclusions

Patients with RA undergoing PCI have more comorbidities and longer, more complex coronary lesions. After adjustment, risk of short-term adverse outcomes are similar, while risk of long-term mortality is higher, particularly among patients with acute coronary syndromes.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Sex differences in pharmacotherapy and long-term outcomes in patients with ischaemic heart disease and left ventricular dysfunction

Background

Left ventricular dysfunction and ischaemic heart disease are common amongst women, however, women tend to present later and are less likely to receive guideline-directed medical therapy compared to their male counterparts.

Purpose

To investigate if a sex discrepancy exists for optimal medical therapy (OMT) and long-term mortality in a cohort of patients with known ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and left ventricular dysfunction.

Methods

We analysed prospectively collected data from a multicentre registry database collected between 2005–2018 on pharmacotherapy 30-days post percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in 13,015 patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) &lt;50%. OMT at 30-days was defined as beta-blocker (BB), angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker (ACEi/ARB) ± mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist (MRA). Long-term mortality was determined by linkage with the National Death Index, with median follow up of 4.7 (IQR 2.0–8.6) years.

Results

Mean age was 65±12 years; women represented 20.2% (2,634) of the cohort. Women were on average 5 years older, had higher average BMI, higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, renal dysfunction, prior stroke and rheumatoid arthritis. Men were more likely to have sleep apnoea, be current/ex-smokers and to have had prior myocardial infarction, PCI and bypass surgery. Overall, 72.3% (9,411) of patients were on OMT, which was similar between sexes (72.7% in women vs. 72.2% in men, p=0.58). Rates of BB therapy were similar between sexes (85.2% vs. 84.5%, p=0.38), while women were less likely to be on an ACEi/ARB (80.4% vs. 82.4%, p=0.02) and more likely to be on a MRA (12.1% vs. 10.0%, p=0.003). Amongst those with LVEF ≤35% (n=1,652), BB (88.7% vs. 87.3%, p=0.46), ACEi/ARB (83.3% vs. 82.1%, p=0.59) and MRA use (32.5% vs. 33.3%, p=0.78) was comparable. Aspirin use was similar between sexes (95.3% vs. 95.9%, p=0.12), while women were less likely to be on statin therapy (93.5% vs. 95.3%, p&lt;0.001) and a second antiplatelet agent (94.4% vs. 95.6%, p=0.007). On unadjusted analysis women had significantly higher long-term mortality of 25.4% compared to 19.0% for men (p&lt;0.001). Kaplan-Meier analysis out to 14 years demonstrated that men on OMT have the best long-term survival overall and women on sub-OMT have significantly poorer outcomes compared to men on sub-OMT. However, after adjusting for OMT and other comorbidities there was no difference in long-term mortality between sexes (HR 0.99, 95% CI 0.87–1.14, p=0.94).

Conclusion

From this large multicentre registry, we found similar rates of guideline-directed pharmacotherapy for left ventricular dysfunction between sexes, however women were less likely to be on appropriate IHD secondary prevention. The increased unadjusted long-term mortality amongst women is likely due to differing baseline risk, given that adjusted mortality was similar between sexes.

Kaplan-Meier Survival Analysis

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Clinical outcomes following ST-elevation myocardial infarction secondary to stent thrombosis treated by percutaneous coronary intervention

OBJECTIVES

To assess the clinical outcomes of patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) secondary to stent thrombosis (ST) compared to those presenting with STEMI secondary to a de novo culprit lesion and treated by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

BACKGROUND

ST is an infrequent but serious complication of PCI with substantial associated morbidity and mortality, however with limited data.

METHODS

We studied consecutive patients who underwent PCI for STEMI from 2005 to 2013 enrolled prospectively in the Melbourne Interventional Group registry. Patients were divided into two groups: the ST group comprised patients where the STEMI was due to ST and the de novo group formed the remainder of the STEMI cohort and all patients were treated by PCI. The primary endpoint was 30-day all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

Compared to the de novo group (n = 3,835), the ST group (n = 128; 3.2% of STEMI) had higher rates of diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia, established cardiovascular diseases, myocardial infarction, and peripheral vascular disease, all p < .01. Within the ST group, very-late ST was the most common form of ST, followed by late and early ST (64, 19, and 17%, respectively). There was no significant difference in the primary outcome between the ST group and the de novo group (4.7 vs. 7.1%, p = .29). On multivariate analysis, ST was not an independent predictor of 30-day mortality (odds ratio: 0.62, 95% confidence interval: 0.07-1.09, p = .068).

CONCLUSION

The short-term prognosis of patients with STEMI secondary to ST who were treated by PCI was comparable to that of patients with STEMI due to de novo lesions.

Role of beta blockers following percutaneous coronary intervention for acute coronary syndrome

AIMS

There is a paucity of evidence supporting routine beta blocker (BB) use in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The aim of this study was to evaluate BB use post PCI and its association with mortality. Furthermore, the study aimed to evaluate the association between BB and mortality in the subgroups of patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) <35%, LVEF 35%-50% and LVEF >50%.

METHODS

Using a large PCI registry, data from patients with ACS between January 2005 and June 2017 who were alive at 30 days were analysed. Those patients taking BB at 30 days were compared with those who were not taking BB. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. The mean follow-up was 5.3±3.5 years.

RESULTS

Of the 17 562 patients, 83.3% were on BB. Mortality was lower in the BB group (13.1% vs 19.5%, p=0.0001). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards model showed that BB use was associated with lower overall mortality (adjusted HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.78 to 0.97, p=0.014). In the subgroup analysis, BB use was associated with reduced mortality in LVEF <35% (adjusted HR 0.63, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.91, p=0.013), LVEF 35%-50% (adjusted HR 0.80, 95% CI 0.68 to 0.95, p=0.01), but not LVEF >50% (adjusted HR 1.03, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.21, p=0.74).

CONCLUSION

BB use remains high and is associated with reduced mortality. This reduction in mortality is primarily seen in those with reduced ejection fraction, but not in those with preserved ejection fraction.

Long-term outcomes following percutaneous coronary intervention to an unprotected left main coronary artery in cardiogenic shock

BACKGROUND

In cardiogenic shock with severe left main coronary artery stenosis (LM), limited information exists on short and longer-term outcomes. We sought to determine the outcomes of unprotected LM PCI in cardiogenic shock.

METHODS

Excluding patients with previous CABG, consecutive patients undergoing PCI in cardiogenic shock from the Melbourne Intervention Group registry between 2005 and 2013 were analysed. Those post LM PCI were compared to those post non-LM PCI. Patient and procedural data were collected with 30-day and 12-month follow-up. Australian National Death Index linkage was performed for long-term mortality analysis.

RESULTS

After excluding previous CABG, 18,069 procedures were performed during 1st January 2005 to 30th November 2013, 601 procedures in the setting of cardiogenic shock. Of these, 45 were performed to an isolated LM and 556 to a non-LM. Those with LM PCI were older and more likely to have a baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of <45%. The in-hospital, 30-day, 12-month and long-term mortality to 9 years in cardiogenic shock after LM PCI was 64.4%, 66.7%, 73.3% and 80.0% compared to 36.5%, 36.9%, 40.5% and 46.0%, after non-LM PCI (p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, LM PCI was a significant independent predictor of long-term mortality (HR1.59, 95%CI 1.00-2.53, p = 0.048). Landmark analysis of survivors to discharge found the long-term mortality of LM PCI approaches 60% compared to 27% for those with non-LM PCI (p = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

Long-term outcomes after PCI to LM in cardiogenic shock are poor, with much of the excess in mortality occurring early. However, reasonable long-term survival was found beyond the initial high-risk period.

Short- and long-term outcomes of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest following ST-elevation myocardial infarction managed with percutaneous coronary intervention

AIM

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is frequently associated with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and has a high mortality. We aimed to identify differences in characteristics and very long-term outcomes for STEMI patients with and without OHCA managed with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

We analysed data from 12,637 PCI patient procedures for STEMI in the multi-centre Melbourne Interventional Group registry between January 2005 and December 2018. Multivariable models examined associations with OHCA presentation and 30-day mortality. Long-term outcomes were assessed through linkage with the Australian National Death Index.

RESULTS

Compared with patients without OHCA (N = 11,580), patients with OHCA (N = 1057) were younger, more often male, had less cardiovascular risk factors, and more often presented with cardiogenic shock. OHCA preceded an increasing proportion of STEMI PCI cases from 2005 to 2018 (2.4% vs. 9.2%). Factors independently associated with OHCA presentation were younger age, male gender, prior valve surgery, multi-vessel disease, LAD culprit, small vessel diameter, and renal impairment on presentation. Patients with OHCA had lower procedural success, higher rates of bleeding and stroke, larger infarct size (measured by peak CK), and higher 30-day mortality (37% vs. 5%; all p < 0.05). Cardiogenic shock, renal impairment and lower ejection fraction were independently associated with 30-day mortality. Long-term mortality was 44% vs. 20% (median follow-up 4.6 years), with Cox regression analysis demonstrating no difference in survival if patients survived beyond 30 days (HR 1.18, 95% CI 0.95-1.47).

CONCLUSIONS

OHCA has a high short-term mortality and precedes an increasing proportion of STEMI PCI cases. Thirty-day survivors have an excellent long-term prognosis.

Outcomes of cardiogenic shock complicating acute coronary syndromes

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to assess the outcomes of cardiogenic shock (CS) complicating acute coronary syndromes (ACS).

BACKGROUND

CS remains the leading cause of mortality in patients presenting with ACS despite advances in care.

METHODS

We studied 13,184 patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for all subtypes of ACS enrolled prospectively in a large multicentre Australian registry (Melbourne Interventional Group registry) from 2005 to 2013. All-cause mortality was obtained via linkage to the National Death Index. Patients were divided into those with and those without CS.

RESULTS

Compared to the non-CS group (n = 12,548, 95.2%), the CS group (n = 636, 4.8%) had a higher proportion of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) (31.1 vs. 2.2%) and ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) presentation (89 vs. 34%), both p < .01. Patients in the CS group had higher rates of in-hospital (40.4 vs. 1.2%) and 30-day (41 vs. 1.7%) mortality compared to the non-CS group. Long-term mortality over a median follow-up of 4.2 years was higher in the CS group (50.6 vs. 13.8%), p < .001. Trends of in-hospital and 30-day mortality rates of CS complicating ACS were relatively stable from 2005 to 2013. Predictors of long-term NDI-linked mortality within the CS group include severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction (HR 3.0), glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <30 (HR 2.56), GFR 30-59 (HR 1.94), OHCA (HR 1.46), diabetes (HR 1.44), and age (HR 1.02), all p < .05.

CONCLUSIONS

Rates of CS-related mortality complicating ACS have remained very high and steady over nearly a decade despite progress in STEMI systems of care, PCI techniques, and medical therapy.

Prognostic significance of suboptimal secondary prevention pharmacotherapy after acute coronary syndromes

BACKGROUND

Optimal secondary prevention pharmacotherapy is the cornerstone of post-acute coronary syndrome (ACS) management. The prognostic impact of not receiving five guideline-recommended therapies is poorly described.

AIM

To ascertain the prognostic significance of suboptimal pharmacotherapy in ACS survivors.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with ACS from the Melbourne Interventional Group registry who were alive at 30 days following their index percutaneous coronary intervention were included. Patients were divided into three categories based on the number of secondary prevention medications prescribed. The optimal medical therapy (OMT), near-optimal medical therapy (NMT), suboptimal medical therapy (SMT) groups were prescribed 5, 4 and ≤ 3 medications, respectively. Primary endpoint was long-term mortality. Cox-proportional hazard modelling was undertaken to assess independent predictors of survival.

RESULTS

Of the 9375 patients included, 5678 (60.6%) received OMT, 2903 (31.0%) received NMT and 794 (8.5%) received SMT. Patients receiving SMT were older, more likely to be female and had higher burden of comorbidities (renal impairment, congestive heart failure, diabetes, peripheral vascular disease; P < 0.01 for all). SMT was associated with higher long-term mortality at 3.9 ± 2.2 years when compared to NMT and OMT (16.8% vs 10.5% vs 8.2%, P < 0.001). Compared to OMT, SMT was an independent predictor of long-term mortality (hazard ratio, HR 1.62, 95% confidence interval, CI 1.30-2.02, P < 0.01) while NMT was associated with a clinically significant 14% mortality hazard (HR 1.14, 95% CI 0.97-1.34, P = 0.11).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a graded long-term hazard associated with not receiving OMT after an ACS. Improvements in secondary prevention pharmacotherapy models of care are warranted to further decrease the long-term mortality.