High Baseline High-Sensitivity Cardiac Troponin T Concentrations and Risk of Index Acute Myocardial Infarction

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the previously recommended baseline high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) thresholds of 52 and 100 ng/L in identifying patients at high risk of acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This study compared the positive predictive value (PPV) for index AMI of these high-risk hs-cTnT thresholds in adult patients in the emergency department undergoing hs-cTnT measurement.

RESULTS

The adjudicated MAyo Southwest Wisconsin 5th Gen Troponin T ImplementatiON cohort included 2053 patients, with 157 (7.6%) who received a diagnosis of AMI. The hs-cTnT concentrations of greater than 52 and greater than 100 ng/L resulted in PPVs of 41% (95% CI, 35%-48%) and 57% (95% CI, 48%-66%). In patients with chest discomfort, hs-cTnT concentrations greater than 52 ng/L resulted in a PPV of 66% (95% CI, 56%-76%) and hs-cTnT concentrations greater than 100 ng/L resulted in a PPV of 77% (95% CI, 65%-87%). The CV Data Mart Biomarker cohort included 143,709 patients, and 3003 (2.1%) received a diagnosis of AMI. Baseline hs-cTnT concentrations greater than 52 and greater than 100 ng/L resulted in PPVs of 12% (95% CI, 11%-12%) and 17% (95% CI, 17%-19%), respectively. In patients with chest pain and hs-cTnT concentrations greater than 52 ng/L, the PPV for MI was 17% (95% CI, 15%-18%) and in those with concentrations greater than 100 ng/L, only 22% (95% CI, 19%-25%).

CONCLUSION

In unselected patients undergoing hs-cTnT measurement, the hs-cTnT thresholds of greater than 52 and greater than 100 ng/L provide suboptimal performance for identifying high-risk patients. In patients with chest discomfort, an hs-cTnT concentration of greater than 100 ng/L, but not the European Society of Cardiology-recommended threshold of greater than 52 ng/L, provides an acceptable performance but should be used only with other clinical features.

Validation of prediction tools for GI bleeding in patients on dual anti-platelet therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The management of dual anti-platelet therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and GI bleeding (GIB) remains a clinical dilemma. We sought to identify predictors of GIB and recurrent bleeding and to determine whether recurrent bleeding increases the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs).

METHODS

In this single-center retrospective study, patients undergoing PCI were identified. The primary and secondary endpoints were GIB at 180 days and recurrent bleeding or MACE at 365 days. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of GIB and recurrent bleeding. Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to determine whether recurrent bleeding can predict a MACE.

RESULTS

Five hundred thirty-six patients were included. On multivariable analysis, PCI for acute coronary syndrome was associated with a 95% increased odds of GIB (P < .001). The P2Y12 inhibitor was continued in >90% of patients, which trended toward significance for recurrent bleeding (P < .10). The HAS-BLED score (Hypertension, Abnormal renal and liver function, Stroke, Bleeding tendency or predisposition, Labile INRs, Elderly, Drugs), including a labile international normalized ratio and prior major bleeding, was strongly associated with recurrent bleeding (P ≤ .009). Recurrent bleeding was associated with a 115% increased risk of MACEs (P = .02). We derived a novel risk score, named the SIGE score ([S]TEMI at PCI, having a labile [I]NR at PCI, index [G]IB within 180 days of PCI, and previous precatheterization [E]ndoscopy within 6 months), to predict recurrent bleeding at 365 days with a high predictive accuracy (area under the curve, .773; 95% confidence interval, .702-.845).

CONCLUSIONS

The SIGE score may help to predict recurrent bleeding, which was shown to be associated with an increased risk of MACEs. Further external validation is needed.

Nonatheromatous Coronary Kink Causing Angiographic Obstruction: A Rare Structural Anomaly

Ischemic symptoms may be explained by a multitude of coronary pathologies, including coronary artery tortuosity, atherosclerosis, fibromuscular dysplasia, vasculitis, coronary vasospasm, or microvascular disease. We present an unusual case of coronary kinking in a patient presenting with exertional jaw pain in the absence of atherosclerotic risk factors. Multimodality imaging, coronary imaging, and coronary physiology helped establish the diagnosis and guide management.

Association of Neurohormonal Antagonists on Incident Cardiotoxicity in Patients With Breast Cancer

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality among breast cancer survivors. Anthracyclines and trastuzumab have been associated with an increased risk of cardiotoxicity, requiring close follow-up for signs of clinical heart failure or asymptomatic left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Whether neurohormonal antagonism with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE-I), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), or β-blockers can prevent the development of chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy in this population remains unknown. We studied 459 women who were diagnosed with breast cancer at our medical center from January 2014 to December 2021 and evaluated baseline characteristics, oncologic treatment, and outcomes. The primary end point was the development of cardiotoxicity, defined as symptomatic decline in ejection fraction of ≥5% below 55% or an asymptomatic decline of ≥10% after treatment with chemotherapy. Patients who were exposed to neurohormonal antagonists were more likely to have hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. There was an increased risk of cardiotoxicity noted for patients who were older (hazard ratio [HR] 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01 to 1.1), smokers within the past 10 years (HR 2.54, 95% CI 1.41 to 4.6), or who received a combination of both trastuzumab and anthracycline therapy (HR 2.52, 95% CI 1.01 to 6.3). Over a median follow-up of 12 months, there were no significant protective benefits noted for patients who were taking ACE-I/ARBs (HR 0.49, 95% CI 0.17 to 1.4), β-blockers (HR 0.50, 95% CI 0.16 to 1.6), or both (HR 1.30, 95% CI 0.44 to 3.9). In conclusion, previous use of ACE-I/ARBs and β-blockers, separately or in combination, was not associated with a reduction in the development of cardiotoxicity in patients receiving anthracycline or trastuzumab therapies. Older age, smoking, and combination chemotherapy were found to be associated with an increased risk.

The effect of ACE-I/ARBs and beta blockers on the development of cardiotoxicity in patients with breast cancer

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease has become the leading cause of mortality among breast cancer survivors. Patients with breast cancer who receive treatment with anthracycline and trastuzumab therapies are at risk for the development of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy. The development of heart failure during chemotherapy administration often results in interruption of these life saving therapies.

Purpose

We aim to investigate whether ACE Inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers (ACE-I/ARBs) and beta-blockers can be used as primary prophylaxis to prevent the development of chemotherapy induced cardiomyopathy.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study investigating women who were diagnosed with breast cancer at our medical center from January 2000 to December 2021. The primary endpoint was the development of cardiotoxicity after treatment with chemotherapy. Cardiotoxicity was defined as a decrease of LVEF by 5% or more to less than 55% in the presence of symptoms of heart failure or an asymptomatic decrease in LVEF by 10% or more to less than 55%. Cox-proportional hazard ratios were conducted to determine the impact of prophylactic ACE/ARBs and beta-blockers on the development of cardiotoxicity. Other baseline characteristics were also investigated for their potential impact on the primary endpoint.

Results

There were 459 patients included in the study of which 70 met criteria for chemotherapy induced cardiomyopathy. Median follow up time of included patients was 12 months and average age was 55 years. Among the included patients, 52% were treated with only trastuzumab, 34% were treated with only anthracycline, and 14% were treated with both therapies. Before chemotherapy was initiated, 15% of patients were taking only ACE-I/ARBs, 7% were taking only beta-blockers, and 5% of patients were taking a combination of ACE-I/ARBS and beta-blockers. There were no significant protective benefits noted for patients who were taking ACE-I/ARBs [HR: 0.49, 95% CI (0.17–1.4)], beta-blockers [HR: 0.50, 95% CI (0.16–1.6)], or both [HR: 1.30, 95% CI (0.44–3.9)]. Notably, there was an increased risk of cardiotoxicity noted for patients who were older [HR: 1.04, 95% CI (1.01–1.1)], smokers within the past 10 years [HR: 2.54, 95% CI (1.41–4.6)], or received a combination of both trastuzumab and anthracycline therapy [HR: 2.52, 95% CI (1.01–6.3)].

Conclusion

Prophylactic use of ACE-I/ARBs and beta-blockers separately or in combination was not associated with beneficial reduction in the development of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy in patients receiving anthracycline or trastuzumab therapies. Older age, smoking within the past 10 years, and combination therapy with both anthracycline and trastuzumab were found to be associated with an increased risk. Further studies are needed to investigate the etiology of how smoking may augment the potential cardiotoxic effects in this population.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Characteristics and Outcomes After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Immunocompromised Patients

Immunocompromised (IC) patients are at greater risk of adverse outcomes from cardiac surgery, and less invasive options for treating severe aortic stenosis among IC patients are often sought. However, despite greater preference for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in this population, there are limited data on outcomes in IC patients. Between January 2015 and December 2019, we studied patients with severe aortic stenosis who underwent TAVI. We defined IC status by the presence of active malignancy and receipt of oncologic treatment, post-organ transplantation-associated immunosuppression, human immunodeficiency virus, chronic steroid use (>5 mg/day), or active autoimmune disorder, and compared characteristics and outcomes of IC patients with those of non-IC patients. Of 173 patients who underwent TAVI, 56 (32%) were IC, 30 (54%) had active malignancy and underwent active treatment, 19 (34%) were IC without malignancy, and 7 (13%) were both IC and had active malignancy. IC patients, compared with non-IC patients, had similar baseline demographics, Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk scores (median 4.3% vs 4.4%), and overall complications (29% vs 26%). There were 37 deaths (16 IC and 21 non-IC) over a median follow-up of 17 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 14 to 20 months), and 1-year survival after TAVI was 84.0% for IC patients and 89.0% for non-IC patients (p = 0.51 by log-rank). After adjusting for Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk scores, IC patients had a nonsignificant trend toward greater risk of death compared with non-IC patients (adjusted hazard ratio 1.48, 95% CI 0.77 to 2.84). IC patients had a significantly smaller risk of cardiac-related death (adjusted hazard ratio 0.21, 95% CI 0.05 to 0.98) but a greater risk of noncardiac-related death (adjusted hazard ratio 4.14, 95% CI 1.71 to 10.0) than non-IC patients. In conclusion, IC patients who underwent TAVI have similar complication rates as non-IC patients, with a nonsignificant trend toward greater mortality, specifically related to noncardiac causes.

Rapid Exclusion of Acute Myocardial Injury and Infarction with a Single High Sensitivity Cardiac Troponin T in the Emergency Department: a Multicenter United States Evaluation

BACKGROUND

There are good data to support using a single high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) below the limit of detection (LoD) of 5 ng/L to exclude acute myocardial infarction. Per the United States (US) Food and Drug Administration (FDA), hs-cTnT can only report to the limit of quantitation (LoQ) of 6 ng/L, a threshold for which there is limited data. Our goal was to determine whether a single hs-cTnT below the LoQ of 6 ng/L is a safe strategy to identify patients at low-risk for acute myocardial injury and infarction.

METHODS

The efficacy (proportion identified as low-risk based on baseline hs-cTnT<6 ng/L) of identifying low-risk patients was examined in a multicenter (n=22 sites) US cohort study of emergency department patients undergoing at least one hs-cTnT (CV Data Mart Biomarker cohort). We then determined the performance of a single hs-cTnT<6 ng/L (biomarker alone) to exclude acute myocardial injury (subsequent hs-cTnT >99^th percentile in those with an initial hs-cTnT<6 ng/L). The clinically intended rule-out strategy combining a nonischemic electrocardiogram with a baseline hs-cTnT<6 ng/L was subsequently tested in an adjudicated cohort in which the diagnostic performance for ruling-out acute myocardial infarction and safety (myocardial infarction or death at 30-days) were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 85,610 patients were evaluated in the CV Data Mart Biomarker cohort, amongst which 24,646 (29%) had a baseline hs-cTnT<6 ng/L. Women were more likely than men to have hs-cTnT<6 ng/L (38% vs. 20%, p<0.0001). Among 11,962 patients with baseline hs-cTnT<6 ng/L and serial measurements, only 1.2% developed acute myocardial injury, resulting in a negative predictive value of 98.8% (95% CI 98.6, 99.0) and sensitivity of 99.6% (95% CI 99.5, 99.6). In the adjudicated cohort, a nonischemic electrocardiogram with hs-cTnT<6 ng/L identified 33% of patients (610 of 1849) as low-risk and resulted in a negative predictive value and sensitivity of 100% and a 30-day rate of 0.2% for 30-day myocardial infarction or death.

CONCLUSIONS

A single hs-cTnT below the LoQ of 6 ng/L is a safe and rapid method to identify a substantial number of patients at very low risk for acute myocardial injury and infarction.

Poor quality of life in patients with and without frailty: co-prevalence and prognostic implications in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions and cardiac catheterization

AIMS

We hypothesize that poor quality of life (QOL) is highly prevalent in frail older adults and is associated with worse prognosis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Predismissal standardized tests for frailty and QOL were prospectively administered to patients included in two cohorts. In Cohort 1, 629 patients ≥65 years who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) from 2005 to 2008, frailty (Fried criteria), and QOL [SF-36 and Seattle Angina Questionnaires (SAQ)] were ascertained. Cohort 2 included 921 patients ≥55 years who underwent cardiac catheterization (535 had PCI) from 2014 to 2018 and frailty was determined by Rockwood criteria and QOL by single-item, self-reported health questionnaire. In Cohort 1, 19% were frail and 20% patients in Cohort 2 were frail with a frailty index >0.30. The median SAQ for physical limitation (58.9 vs. 82.2, P < 0.001), physical (29.5 vs. 43.9, P < 0.001), and mental (49.2 vs. 57.4, P < 0.001) component scores of SF-36 in Cohort 1 were lower and self-rating of fair/poor health (56% vs 18%, P < 0.001) in Cohort 2 was significantly higher in frail patients. As compared to patients without frailty, frail patients were five times more likely (59% vs. 11%, P < 0.001) in Cohort 1 and seven times more likely (56% vs. 8%) in Cohort 2 to be classified with poor QOL. Age- and gender-adjusted 3-year all-cause death and death or myocardial infarction (MI) was significantly higher for patients undergoing PCI with frailty; [hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) death, 4.20 (2.63-6.68, P < 0.001) and death or MI hazard ratio (HR) 2.72 (1.91-3.87, P < 0.001)] and with poor QOL [HR death 2.47 (1.59-3.84, P < 0.001)] and death or MI 1.61 (1.16-2.24, P < 0.001). There was no significant interaction between frailty and QOL (P = 0.64) and only modest attenuation was observed when considered together indicating their independent prognostic influence.

CONCLUSION

In elderly patients undergoing cardiac catheterization or PCI, poor QOL is seen more frequently in frail patients. Both frailty and poor QOL had significant and independent association with long-term survival.

Characteristics and outcomes of patients with peripheral artery disease undergoing endovascular revascularization: A community hospital perspective

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on outcomes for patients with peripheral artery disease undergoing endovascular revascularization by multi-disciplinary teams in a community hospital setting.

METHODS

From January 2015 through December 2015, we assembled a multi-disciplinary program comprised of cardiologists, surgeons, radiologists, nurses, and administrative staff for managing patients with peripheral artery disease undergoing endovascular revascularization. Demographic, procedural, and outcomes data were collected with use of a template from the Society for Vascular Surgery Vascular Quality Initiative database. We compared characteristics and outcomes of patients with intermittent claudication and critical limb ischemia. We used Kaplan-Meier methods to estimate the rate of overall survival and freedom from rehospitalization between groups.

RESULTS

After excluding patients with acute limb ischemia (n = 5), peripheral intervention to the upper extremity (n = 6), or abdominal aorta (n = 11), there were 82 patients in the study cohort; 45 had intermittent claudication and 37 had critical limb ischemia. Baseline and procedural characteristics were similar between groups, although critical limb ischemia patients were more likely to have hyperlipidemia (75.7% vs. 53.3%, P = .42). Procedural success was achieved in 91.3% of cases. Actionable access site bleeding occurred in 2.4% of patients. High rates of aspirin (91.5%) and statin (87.8%) were noted at discharge. After two years of post endovascular revascularization, survival was 57.5% for critical limb ischemia patients and 94.4% for intermittent claudication patients (P < .001). Freedom from rehospitalization was 32.7% for critical limb ischemia patients and 83.5% for intermittent claudication patients (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that favorable outcomes may be achieved with a multi-disciplinary peripheral artery disease program at community hospitals. The incorporation of quality improvement practices may further help to develop standardized and regionalized approaches to care delivery for patients with peripheral artery disease.

Familial Tako-tsubo Cardiomyopathy: Clinical and Echocardiographic Features Including Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings

INTRODUCTION

Tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) is being recognized more frequently; and a familial form of this diagnosis has been suspected but is less well-established.

CASE

A 75-year-old patient with a family history of TCM was admitted with suspected ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Transthoracic echocardiography showed apical dyskinesis with hyperdynamic basal walls and a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 25%. Repeat echocardiography showed normal LVEF of 60% ejection fraction. Cardiac catheterization showed no significant stenosis.

DISCUSSION

TCM is characterized by transient systolic left ventricular dysfunction. A few cases of familial TCM have been reported in the literature and a genetic component is suspected.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there has been a paucity of data, familial cases of TCM have been reported. This case study addresses TCM and the familial occurrence of the syndrome, which may have a genetic basis.

Fragmentation of QRS complex during ventricular pacing is associated with ventricular arrhythmic events in patients with left ventricular dysfunction

BACKGROUND

QRS fragmentation (fQRS) during baseline ventricular conduction, a myocardial fibrosis marker, is associated with increased risk of ventricular tachyarrhythmias but may not manifest unless ventricular activation change is provoked. We examined the association of fQRS during right ventricular (RV) pacing with death and ventricular tachyarrhythmia in patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction undergoing electrophysiology study (EPS).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Study participants had LV dysfunction (ejection fraction < 50%) undergoing EPS from January 2002 to May 2014 at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. fQRS during RV stimulation involved >2 notches on R/S waves identified in ≥2 contiguous standard electrocardiographic leads representing anterior, inferior, or lateral ventricular segments. Primary outcomes were ventricular tachyarrhythmias that were symptomatic or required intervention and total and cardiac deaths. In all, 528 patients participated (mean age, 65 years; male sex, 80%). Of them, 312 (59%) had ischemic cardiomyopathy and mean (SD) left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 33.2% (9.5%); 457 (87%) had implantable cardiac devices (implanted defibrillator, n  =  380). Mean (SD) follow-up was 3.2 (3.0) years. fQRS during RV pacing was observed in 292 patients (60%) in any ventricular segment. Patients with fQRS during RV pacing had 2.5 higher rate of ventricular tachyarrhythmia events than patients with no fQRS (hazard ratio [95% CI], 2.45 [1.5-4.2]; P < 0.01), after correcting for baseline ventricular conduction defect and QRS duration, LVEF, inducible sustained ventricular tachycardia, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and ischemic cardiomyopathy.

CONCLUSIONS

RV stimulation can unmask fQRS, and it is associated with increased risk of ventricular tachyarrhythmia in LV dysfunction.

Characteristics and long term outcomes of patients with acute coronary syndromes due to culprit left main coronary artery disease treated with percutaneous coronary intervention

BACKGROUND

Patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) due to unprotected culprit left main coronary artery disease (LMCAD) treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are rare, high-risk, and not represented in trials. Data regarding long term outcome after PCI are limited.

METHODS

Between January 2000 and December 2014, there were 8,794 patients hospitalized with unstable angina/non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (UA/NSTEMI) or ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with PCI at our institution; of these, 83 (0.94%) patients were identified as having culprit LMCAD ACS.

RESULTS

Of the 83 patients with unprotected LMCAD ACS, 40 patients presented with STEMI and 43 patients presented with UA/NSTEMI. As compared to LM UA/NSTEMI, LM STEMI patients were younger and had less hypertension, with a trend towards greater frequency of cardiogenic shock. Distal LM involvement was common in both groups and did not differ by ACS type. In-hospital mortality was 33% in LM STEMI and 9% in LM UA/NSTEMI (P = .009). Over median follow up of 6.3 years, long term survival rates in both groups were similar (46% for STEMI vs 51% for UA/NSTEMI; P = .50 by log-rank).

CONCLUSIONS

Unprotected culprit LMCAD ACS necessitating PCI is uncommon, occurring in <1% of cases, but is associated with reduced survival, with long term follow-up noting continued and similar risk of death regardless of index ACS type.

Prolonged Ventricular Conduction and Repolarization During Right Ventricular Stimulation Predicts Ventricular Arrhythmias and Death in Patients With Cardiomyopathy

OBJECTIVES

The goal of this study was to evaluate whether prolonged ventricular conduction (paced QRS) and repolarization (paced QTc) times observed during ventricular stimulation predict ventricular arrhythmic events and death.

BACKGROUND

Abnormal ventricular conduction and repolarization can predispose patients to ventricular arrhythmias.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with left ventricular dysfunction (ejection fraction <50%) undergoing electrophysiology studies from January 2002 until May 2014 were identified at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minnesota). Patients were followed up until December 2014 for occurrence of ventricular arrhythmias and death.

RESULTS

Among the 501 patients included (mean age 65 years; mean left ventricular ejection fraction 33.1%), longer paced ventricular conduction was associated with longer baseline QRS duration, longer QT interval, and lower ejection fraction. On multivariable analysis, longer paced QRS duration was associated with higher risk of ventricular arrhythmia (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.11 per 10-ms increase; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07 to 1.16; p < 0.001) and all-cause death or arrhythmia (HR: 1.09; 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.13; p < 0.001). A paced QRS duration >190 ms was associated with a 3.6 times higher risk of ventricular arrhythmia (HR: 3.6; 95% CI: 2.35 to 5.53; p < 0.001) and a 2.1 times higher risk of death or arrhythmia (HR: 2.12; 95% CI: 1.53 to 2.95; p < 0.001), independent of left ventricular function or baseline QRS duration. Longer QTc interval during ventricular pacing was associated with a higher risk of ventricular arrhythmia (HR: 1.03 per 10-ms increase; 95% CI: 1.02 to 1.12; p < 0.001) independent of paced QRS duration.

CONCLUSIONS

Longer paced QRS duration and paced QTc interval predict ventricular arrhythmias in patients with cardiomyopathy. Ventricular conduction and repolarization prolongation during right ventricular pacing can determine the risk of ventricular arrhythmias.

Outcomes of Physician-Staffed Versus Non-Physician-Staffed Helicopter Transport for ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Background

The effect of physician‐staffed helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) on ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patient transfer is unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the characteristics and outcomes of physician‐staffed HEMS (Physician‐HEMS) versus non‐physician‐staffed (Standard‐HEMS) in patients with STEMI.

Methods and Results

We studied 398 STEMI patients transferred by either Physician‐HEMS (n=327) or Standard‐HEMS (n=71) for primary or rescue percutaneous coronary intervention at 2 hospitals between 2006 and 2014. Data were collected from electronic medical records and each institution's contribution to the National Cardiovascular Data Registry. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. Median electrocardiogram‐to‐balloon time was longer for the Standard‐HEMS group than for the Physician‐HEMS group (118 vs 107 minutes; P=0.002). The Standard‐HEMS group was more likely than the Physician‐HEMS group to receive nitroglycerin (37% vs 15%; P<0.001) and opioid analgesics (42.3% vs 21.7%; P<0.001) during transport. In‐hospital adverse outcomes, including cardiac arrest, cardiogenic shock, and serious arrhythmias, were more common in the Standard‐HEMS group (25.4% vs 11.3%; P=0.002). After adjusting for age, sex, Killip class, and transport time, patients transferred by Standard‐HEMS had increased risk of any serious in‐hospital adverse event (odds ratio=2.91; 95% CI=1.39–6.06; P=0.004). In‐hospital mortality was not statistically different between the 2 groups (9.9% in the Standard‐HEMS group vs 4.9% in the Physician‐HEMS group; P=0.104).

Conclusions

Patients with STEMI transported by Standard‐HEMS had longer transport times, higher rates of nitroglycerin and opioid administration, and higher rates of adjusted in‐hospital events. Efforts to better understand optimal transport strategies in STEMI patients are needed.

Meta-Analysis of Renal Function on the Safety and Efficacy of Novel Oral Anticoagulants for Atrial Fibrillation

Novel oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are safe and effective for the prevention of stroke or systemic embolism (S/SE) in atrial fibrillation. The efficacy and safety of NOACs compared with warfarin has not been systematically assessed in subjects with mild or moderate renal dysfunction. We performed a meta-analysis of the randomized clinical trials that compared efficacy and safety (major bleeding) outcomes of NOACs compared to warfarin for the treatment of nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and had available data on renal function. We estimated the pooled relative risk (RR) of S/SE and major bleeding in relation to renal function (assessed by baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate divided in 3 groups: normal [estimated glomerular filtration rate >80 ml/min], mildly impaired [50 to 80 ml/min], and moderate impairment [<50 ml/min]). We included 4 randomized clinical trials enrolling a total of 58,338 subjects. The RRs of S/SE and major bleeding were higher in subjects with renal impairment compared to normal renal function, independent of type of anticoagulant therapy. In subjects with normal renal function, no difference in the risk of S/SE was observed, whereas the risk of major bleeding was slightly lower for subjects taking NOACs (RR 0.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.76 to 0.99). In subjects with mild or moderate renal impairment, NOACs were associated with a reduced risk of S/SE (RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.66 to 0.85 and RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.68 to 0.94, respectively) and major bleeding (RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.95 and RR 0.80, 95% CI 0.71 to 0.91, respectively) compared to warfarin. The pooled analysis for major bleeding demonstrated significant heterogeneity. In conclusion, the use of NOACs was associated with a reduced risk of S/SE and reduced risk of major bleeding compared to warfarin in subjects with mild or moderate renal impairment suggesting a favorable risk profile of these agents in patients with renal disease.

Echocardiographic indices associated with frailty in adults ≥65 years

Frailty is prevalent in patients with cardiovascular disease, but few studies have evaluated relations between frailty and echocardiographically determined cardiac indexes. To assess the prevalence of frailty and its association with echocardiographic characteristics, we prospectively measured frailty in 257 patients ≥65 years who underwent echocardiography (transthoracic echocardiography [TTE]) from June 2012 to February 2013. Deficits of weight loss, exhaustion, physical activity, gait speed, and handgrip strength were used to categorize patients as frail (≥3 features), intermediately frail (1 or 2 features), or nonfrail (0 features). Pearson correlation was used to examine bivariate associations between TTE variables and frailty. Kaplan-Meier methods were used to estimate overall survival based on frailty status. A multivariable model was used to examine TTE indexes associated with frailty while accounting for age and baseline cardiac co-morbidities. Of the 257 patients studied, 40 (15.6%) were nonfrail, 167 (65.0%) intermediately frail, and 50 (19.4%) frail. Left atrial volume (r = 0.14; p = 0.03), stroke volume (r = -0.19; p <0.01), E/A ratio (r = 0.26; p <0.001), and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (r = 0.33; p <0.001) correlated with fraility. After age and baseline cardiac comorbidities were accounted for, larger left atrial volumes, lower stroke volumes, and higher pulmonary artery systolic pressures remained independently associated with frailty. Frail patients had worse survival compared with nonfrail and intermediately frail patients (p = 0.016 by log-rank). In conclusion, 1/5 of older patients who underwent clinically indicated TTE were frail, with worse survival and a unique fingerprint of TTE findings distinguishing them from nonfrail patients.

Cumulative incidence of death and rehospitalization among the elderly in the first year after NSTEMI

BACKGROUND

Age is associated with outcomes in non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction; however, less is known about rehospitalization or death among elderly survivors. We aimed to evaluate mortality and cause-specific rehospitalization rates in this growing population of older adults with ischemic heart disease.

METHODS

We linked 36,711 patients aged ≥65 years who survived an index non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction from the CRUSADE registry to Medicare claims data for follow-up. One-year survival estimates were compared by age group-65-79, 80-84, 85-89, and ≥90 years-and Cox models were used to analyze the association between age and 1-year mortality.

RESULTS

Death at 1 year increased markedly with age (from 13.3% for 65-79 years to 45.5% for ≥90 years). In contrast, rehospitalization rates at 1 year were similar and high across ages (65-79 years, 52.7%; ≥90 years, 56.5%), with nearly as many noncardiovascular-related as cardiovascular-related rehospitalizations. At 1 year, nonagenarians had substantially higher rates of death with or without preceding rehospitalization and twice the adjusted mortality than the group aged 65-79 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Evolving care delivery models should consider the high mortality in older adults after a non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Contrary to expectations, rehospitalization rates do not rise substantially with advancing age, and rehospitalization is often for noncardiac diagnoses.

Characteristics and outcomes of patients who achieve high workload (≥10 metabolic equivalents) during treadmill exercise echocardiography

OBJECTIVE

To determine the frequency and prognostic significance of abnormal exercise echocardiographic results for patients achieving a workload of 10 or more metabolic equivalents during treadmill exercise echocardiography.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients who underwent treadmill exercise echocardiography from November 1, 2003, through December 31, 2008, and exercised for 9 or more minutes using the Bruce protocol (N=7236) were included. Clinical and exercise echocardiographic characteristics and outcomes were evaluated. Variables associated with abnormal exercise echocardiographic results and mortality were identified.

RESULTS

Exercise echocardiographic results were positive for ischemia in 862 patients (12%). Extensive ischemia developed in 265 patients (4%). For patients with normal exercise echocardiographic results, all-cause and cardiovascular mortality rates were 0.30% and 0.05% per person-year of follow-up, respectively. For patients who had extensive ischemia, all-cause and cardiovascular mortality rates were 0.84% and 0.25% per person-year of follow-up, respectively. Patients at highest risk were those who had extensive and severe regional wall motion abnormalities at rest (n=58), and their all-cause and cardiovascular mortality rates were 2.65% and 0.76% per person-year of follow-up. Exercise echocardiographic variables did not identify sizable patient subgroups at risk for death and did not provide incremental prognostic information (C statistic was 0.74 compared with 0.73 for the clinical plus exercise electrocardiography model).

CONCLUSION

Patients achieving a workload of 10 or more metabolic equivalents during treadmill exercise testing do not often have extensive ischemic abnormalities on exercise echocardiography. Although exercise echocardiographic results provide some prognostic information, it is not of incremental value for these patients, whose short-term and medium-term prognosis is excellent.

Left ventricular diastolic function and long-term outcomes in patients with normal exercise echocardiographic findings

The objective of the present study was to determine whether diastolic dysfunction (DD) is associated with outcomes in the absence of myocardial ischemia. We studied 2,835 patients undergoing exercise echocardiography from January 2006 through December 2006 who had normal systolic function (ejection fraction ≥50%) and an absence of exercise-induced wall motion abnormalities. Diastolic function was graded as normal, mild DD, or moderate to severe DD. Medical records review and patient contact were undertaken to determine mortality, cardiovascular events (i.e., death, myocardial infarction, or stroke), incident heart failure (HF), and hospitalization. The mean ± SD age was 58.9 ± 12.8 years, and 54.0% were women. DD was present in 40.0% of the participants, with mild DD in 28.2% and moderate to severe DD in 11.8%. During a median follow-up of 4.4 years, 81 deaths and 114 cardiovascular events occurred, and DD was associated with greater rates of mortality, cardiovascular events, and HF events or hospitalizations (all p <0.001). On multivariate analysis, mild or moderate to severe DD (referent, normal function) was associated with HF or hospitalization (hazard ratio 1.45, 95% confidence interval 1.18 to 1.78, p <0.001 for mild DD; hazard ratio 1.75, 95% confidence interval 1.37 to 2.24, p <0.001 for moderate to severe DD) but was not independently associated with death or cardiovascular events. The diastolic index of filling pressure (E/e') was independently associated with mortality, cardiovascular events, and HF or hospitalization. In conclusion, among patients without demonstrable myocardial ischemia, left ventricular DD was associated with greater event rates during long-term follow up but did not independently predict hard end points other than HF or hospitalization. E/e' was independently associated with the clinical outcomes and might be an important echocardiographically derived parameter to identify in patients undergoing exercise echocardiography.

Cognitive impairment and outcomes in older adult survivors of acute myocardial infarction: findings from the translational research investigating underlying disparities in acute myocardial infarction patients' health status registry

BACKGROUND

Cognitive impairment without dementia (CIND) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are prevalent in older adults; however, the association of CIND with outcomes after AMI is unknown.

METHODS

We used a multicenter registry to study 772 patients ≥65 years with AMI, enrolled between April 2005 and December 2008, who underwent cognitive function assessment with the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status-modified (TICS-m) 1 month after AMI. Patients were categorized by cognitive status to describe characteristics and in-hospital treatment, including quality of life and survival 1 year after AMI.

RESULTS

Mean age was 73.2 ± 6.3 years; 58.5% were men, and 78.2% were white. Normal cognitive function (TICS-m >22) was present in 44.4%; mild CIND (TICS-m 19-22) in 29.8%; and moderate/severe CIND (TICS-m <19) in 25.8% of patients. Rates of hypertension (72.6%, 77.4%, and 81.9%), cerebrovascular accidents (3.5%, 7.0%, and 9.0%), and myocardial infarction (20.1%, 22.2%, and 29.6%) were higher in those with lower TICS-m scores (P < .05 for comparisons). AMI medications were similar by cognitive status; however, CIND was associated with lower cardiac catheterization rates (P = .002) and cardiac rehabilitation referrals (P < .001). Patients with moderate/severe CIND had higher risk-adjusted 1-year mortality that was nonstatistically significant (adjusted hazard ratio 1.97, 95% CI 0.99-3.94, P = .054; referent normal, TICS-m >22). Quality of life across cognitive status was similar at 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS

Most older patients surviving AMI have measurable CIND. Cognitive impairment without dementia was associated with less invasive care, less referral and participation in cardiac rehabilitation, and worse risk-adjusted 1-year survival in those with moderate/severe CIND, making it an important condition to consider in optimizing AMI care.

Age and outcomes in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention: findings from the APEX-AMI trial

BACKGROUND

To understand the influence of age on treatment and outcomes, we analyzed the largest group of patients 75 years or older with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in a clinical trial.

METHODS

We analyzed data from 5745 patients in the Assessment of Pexelizumab in Acute Myocardial Infarction trial from July 13, 2004, through May 11, 2006. Age was analyzed continuously and according to 3 groups: younger than 65 years (n = 3410), 65 to 74 years old (n = 1358), and 75 years or older (n = 977). The main outcome measures were 90-day mortality and the composite of congestive heart failure, shock, or death at 90 days.

RESULTS

Older patients had higher rates of hypertension, chronic obstructive lung disease, previous angina, and prior revascularization. Also notable in these patients were higher Killip class, less angiographic success after PPCI, and less ST-segment resolution with higher rates of in-hospital clinical events, including mechanical, electrical, and bleeding complications. There was less use of short-term adjunctive medications but similar use of discharge medications in older compared with younger patients. Ninety-day mortality rates were 2.3%, 4.8%, and 13.1%; composite outcome rates were 5.9%, 11.9%, and 22.8% for patients younger than 65 years, 65 to 74 years old, and 75 years or older, respectively. After multivariable adjustment, age was the strongest independent predictor of 90-day mortality (hazard ratio, 2.07 per 10-year increase; 95% confidence interval, 1.84-2.33).

CONCLUSIONS

Older patients have lower rates of acute procedural success and more postinfarction complications. Age is the strongest predictor of 90-day mortality in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients undergoing PPCI. Despite implementing PPCI for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in older patients, early risk remains high, necessitating continued focus on improving outcomes in this vulnerable population.

Does the prognostic value of dobutamine stress echocardiography differ among different age groups?

BACKGROUND

Age is associated with reduced exercise capacity and greater prevalence of coronary artery disease. Whether the prognostic information obtained from dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE), a stress test commonly used for patients unable to perform an exercise test, provides differential information based on age is not well known.

METHODS

We studied 6,655 consecutive patients referred for DSE. Patients were divided into 3 age groups: (1) <60 years (n = 1,389), (2) 60 to 74 years (n = 2,978), and (3) ≥75 years (n = 2,288). Mean follow-up was 5.5 ± 2.8 years. End points included all-cause mortality and cardiac events, including myocardial infarction and late (>3 months) coronary revascularization.

RESULTS

Peak stress wall motion score index was an independent predictor of cardiac events in all age groups (<60 years: hazard ratio [HR] 1.14, P = .02; 60-74 years: HR 1.70, P < .0001; ≥75 years: HR 1.10, P = .006). In patients ≥75 years, peak wall motion score index (HR 1.10, P < .0001) and abnormal left ventricular end-systolic volume response (HR 1.25, P = .03) were independent predictors of death. In patients aged 60 to 74 years, abnormal left ventricular end-systolic volume response (HR 1.43, P = .0003) was independently related to death, whereas in patients <60 years, the echocardiographic data assessed during stress were not a predictor.

CONCLUSIONS

Dobutamine stress echocardiography provided independent information predictive of cardiac events among all age groups and death in patients ≥60 years. However, among patients <60 years, stress-induced echocardiographic abnormalities were not independently associated with mortality. Comorbidities, which have precluded exercise testing, may be most relevant in predicting mortality in patients <60 years undergoing DSE.

Aortic valve sclerosis and clinical outcomes: moving toward a definition

The presence of aortic valve sclerosis has been suggested as a marker of increased cardiovascular risk, including increased mortality. However, it remains unclear whether aortic valve sclerosis is independently associated with risk or merely a marker of coexistent cardiovascular risk factors. Aortic valve sclerosis is usually diagnosed on transthoracic echocardiography, the most widely used imaging modality in observational and natural history studies of aortic valve disease. Defining aortic valve sclerosis has remained challenging due to the variable and qualitative nature of its description by ultrasound techniques. Importantly, artifacts common to ultrasound imaging and awareness of demographic and clinical history information may bias the diagnosis of aortic valve sclerosis. Because clinicians may alter treatment recommendations or follow-up based on echocardiographic reporting of aortic valve sclerosis, highlighting pitfalls of the subjective nature by which aortic valve sclerosis is identified and establishing diagnostic criteria are necessary. This review describes the diagnostic criteria for aortic valve sclerosis used in outcome studies, summarizes the epidemiological findings reporting the relationship between aortic valve sclerosis and clinical outcome, and proposes a definition of aortic valve sclerosis based on the literature.

Gait speed as an incremental predictor of mortality and major morbidity in elderly patients undergoing cardiac surgery

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to test the value of gait speed, a clinical marker for frailty, to improve the prediction of mortality and major morbidity in elderly patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

BACKGROUND

It is increasingly difficult to predict the elderly patient's risk posed by cardiac surgery because existing risk assessment tools are incomplete.

METHODS

A multicenter prospective cohort of elderly patients undergoing cardiac surgery was assembled at 4 tertiary care hospitals between 2008 and 2009. Patients were eligible if they were 70 years of age or older and were scheduled for coronary artery bypass and/or valve replacement or repair. The primary predictor was slow gait speed, defined as a time taken to walk 5 m of ≥ 6 s. The primary end point was a composite of in-hospital post-operative mortality or major morbidity.

RESULTS

The cohort consisted of 131 patients with a mean age of 75.8 ± 4.4 years; 34% were female patients. Sixty patients (46%) were classified as slow walkers before cardiac surgery. Slow walkers were more likely to be female (43% vs. 25%, p = 0.03) and diabetic (50% vs. 28%, p = 0.01). Thirty patients (23%) experienced the primary composite end point of mortality or major morbidity after cardiac surgery. Slow gait speed was an independent predictor of the composite end point after adjusting for the Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk score (odds ratio: 3.05; 95% confidence interval: 1.23 to 7.54).

CONCLUSIONS

Gait speed is a simple and effective test that may identify a subset of vulnerable elderly patients at incrementally higher risk of mortality and major morbidity after cardiac surgery.

Issues with care in the elderly patient presenting with acute ischemia

The issues surrounding care of the elderly patient with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) present significant challenges to clinicians and investigators. The elderly often have atypical symptoms of acute ischemia, have greater medical comorbidities, and are more likely to die from ischemic heart disease. Important differences exist among elderly patients with ACS as compared with their younger counterparts, including age-related changes in physiology, metabolism of drugs, and overall functional status, all of which influence treatment patterns and clinical outcomes. Given the absence of elderly patients in many clinical trials, these high-risk individuals are sometimes managed with more conservative strategies, which at times diverge from accepted guidelines. This review addresses clinically important issues in the care of elderly patients with acute ischemia and highlights recent studies that provide new insight into this complex area of cardiovascular care.