The Role of Comorbidities in Predicting Functional Improvement After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) have a high comorbidity burden. We sought to stratify patients into functional outcomes using the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ-12), a patient-reported outcome with benefits over both the New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification and the original 23-item KCCQ, and to evaluate the importance of comorbidities in predicting failure of functional improvement post-TAVI in a contemporary cohort.

METHODS

In total, 366 patients with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVI with baseline KCCQ-12 were retrospectively analysed and divided into two groups. Failure to improve was defined as a score <60 and a change in score <10 at 1 year in either overall score (KCCQ-OS) or clinical summary score (KCCQ-CSS).

RESULTS

Failure to improve was noted in 13% of patients, who were more likely to have lower KCCQ-OS at baseline (47 [35-59] vs 56 [42-74]), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (19% vs 8%), severe chronic kidney disease (CKD) (13% vs 2%), a clinical frailty score (CFS) ≥5 (41% vs 14%), and lower serum albumin (36 g/L [34-38] vs 38 g/L [35-40]). On multivariate analysis, with an area under the curve of 0.71 (0.63-0.78), baseline KCCQ-OS (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.3 [0.1-0.6], p=0.04), COPD (aOR 2.8 [1.2-6.5], p=0.02), and severe CKD (aOR 5.7 [1.7-18.5], p=0.004) remained independent predictors. CFS alone had a similar predictive value as the multivariable model (OR 2.0 [1.3-3.4], area under the curve 0.69 [0.59-0.80], p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

KCCQ scores were effective in delineating functional outcomes, with most patients in our relatively lower surgical risk cohort showing significant functional improvements post-TAVI. Low baseline KCCQ, moderate or worse COPD, and severe CKD were associated with failure of improvement post-TAVI. Baseline CFS appears to be a good screening tool to predict poor improvement. These factors should be evaluated and weighted accordingly in pre-TAVI assessments and decision-making.

Incidence, Predictors, and Outcomes of Nonhome Discharge Following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation: A Multicenter Australian Experience-The NHD TAVI Study

Patients who undergo transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) commonly experience nonhome discharge (NHD), a phenomenon associated with increased health care expenditure and possibly poorer outcomes. Despite its clinical relevance in TAVI, the incidence and predictors of NHD and its impact on the quality of life remain poorly characterized. Also unknown is the proportion of patients who undergo TAVI that require long-term residential care after initial NHD. Therefore, we aimed to address these questions using a large, multicenter Australian cohort. A total of 2,229 patients who underwent TAVI from 2010 to 2023 included in the Alfred-Cabrini-Epworth TAVI Registry were analyzed. The median age was 82 (interquartile range 78 to 86) years and 41% were women. A total of 257 patients (12%) were not discharged home after TAVI, with the incidence falling over time (R2 = 0.636, p <0.001). A multivariable logistic regression model for NHD prediction was developed with excellent calibration and discrimination (C-statistic = 0.835). The independent predictors of NHD were postprocedural stroke (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 11.05), procedure at a private hospital (aOR 3.01), living alone (aOR 2.35), vascular access site complications (aOR 2.09), frailty (aOR 1.89), age >80 years (aOR 1.82), hypoalbuminemia (aOR 1.76), New York Heart Association III to IV (aOR 1.74), and hospital length of stay (aOR 1.13) (all p <0.05). NHD was not associated with mortality at 30 days and <1% of all patients required longer-term residential care. In conclusion, although common after TAVI, NHD does not predict short-term mortality, most patients successfully return home within 30 days, and when used appropriately, NHD may serve as a brief and effective method of optimizing functional status without compromising long-term independence.

Electrocardiographic patterns and clinical outcomes of acute coronary syndrome cardiogenic shock in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention - A propensity score analysis

OBJECTIVES

To determine the influence of presenting electrocardiographic (ECG) changes on prognosis in acute coronary syndrome cardiogenic shock (ACS-CS) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary angiography (PCI).

BACKGROUND

The effect of initial ECG changes such as ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) versus non-STEMI among patients ACS-CS on prognosis remains unclear.

METHODS

We analysed data from consecutive patients with ACS-CS enrolled in the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes registry between 2014 and 2020. Inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis (IPTW) was used to assess the effect of ECG changes on 30-day mortality.

RESULTS

Of 1564 patients with ACS-CS who underwent PCI, 161 had non-STEMI and 1403 had STEMI on ECG. The mean age was 66 ± 13 years, and 74 % (1152) were males. Patients with non-STEMI compared to STEMI were older (70 ± 12 vs 65 ± 13 years), had higher rates of diabetes (34 % vs 21 %), prior coronary artery bypass graft surgery (14 % vs 3.3 %), peripheral arterial disease (10.6 % vs 4.1 %, p < 0.01), and lower baseline eGFR (53.8 [37.1, 75.4] vs 65.3 [46.3, 87.8] ml/min/1.73m2), all p ≤ 0.01. Non-STEMI patients were more likely to have a culprit left circumflex artery (29 % vs 20 %) and more often underwent multivessel percutaneous coronary intervention (30 % vs 20 %) but had lower rates of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (21 % vs 39 %), all p ≤ 0.01. Propensity score analysis with IPTW confirmed that non-STEMI ECG was associated with lower odds for 30-day all-cause mortality (OR 0.47 [0.32, 0.69], p < 0.001), and 30-day major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (OR 0.48 [0.33, 0.70]).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing PCI, Non-STEMI as compared to STEMI on index ECG was associated with approximately half the relative risk of both 30-day mortality and 30-day MACCE and could be a useful variable to integrate in ACS-CS risk scores.

Acute Kidney Injury Following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation-A Contemporary Perspective of Incidence, Predictors, and Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a known complication following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Most of this data relates to higher-risk patients with early-generation TAVI valves. With TAVI now established as a safe and cost-effective procedure for low-risk patients, there is a distinct need for updated analysis. We aimed to assess the incidence, predictors, and outcomes of AKI in a contemporary cohort of TAVI patients, concurrently examining the role of temporal evolution on AKI.

METHOD

A total of 2,564 patients undergoing TAVI from 2008-2023 included in the Alfred-Cabrini-Epworth (ACE) TAVI Registry were analysed. Patients were divided into AKI and no AKI groups. Outcomes were reported according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium-3 (VARC-3) criteria.

RESULTS

Of 2,564 patients, median age 83 (78-87) years, 57.4% men and a median Society of Thoracic Surgeons score of 3.6 (2.4-5.5), 163 (6.4%) patients developed AKI with incidence falling from 9.7% between 2008-2014 to 6% between 2015-2023 (p=0.022). On multivariable analysis, independent predictors of AKI were male sex (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.89, p=0.005), congestive cardiac failure (aOR 1.52, p=0.048), estimated glomerular filtration rate 30-59 (aOR: 2.79, p<0.001), estimated glomerular filtration rate <30 (aOR 8.65, p<0.001), non-femoral access (aOR 5.35, p<0.001), contrast volume (aOR 1.01, p<0.001), self-expanding valve (aOR 1.60, p=0.045), and bleeding (aOR 2.88, p=0.005). Acute kidney injury was an independent predictor of 30-day (aOR: 6.07, p<0.001) and 12-month (aOR: 3.01, p=0.002) mortality, an association that remained consistent when excluding TAVIs performed prior to 2015.

CONCLUSIONS

Acute kidney injury remains a relatively common complication of TAVI, associated with significant morbidity and mortality even in less comorbid, contemporary practice patients.

Clinical Outcomes Associated With Balloon Aortic Valvuloplasty in the Contemporary Era

BACKGROUND

Severe aortic stenosis is the most common acquired valvular disorder. Balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) is considered for patients who are not suitable for surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) and transcatheter aortic valve insertion (TAVI). The American Heart Association and European Society of Cardiology recommend BAV as a bridging procedure for SAVR and TAVI due to the significant morbidity and mortality associated with it. We aim to investigate the morbidity and mortality associated with BAV only, BAV bridged to TAVI and TAVI-only patients over 3 years in Epworth Richmond, a tertiary hospital in Victoria, Australia.

METHODS

We divided patients into three groups including BAV only, BAV bridged to TAVI and TAVI only and assessed the baseline demographics, procedural complications, and mortality between the groups.

RESULTS

Of 438 patients, 26 patients underwent BAV only, 36 patients bridged to TAVI post-BAV and 376 patients underwent TAVI directly. All patients had significant reductions in their mean AV pressure gradient (p<0.01). There was no significant difference in periprocedural morbidity and mortality between the groups. At 6-month follow-up, the mortality in patients undergoing only BAV was 31%, compared with 8.3% in BAV bridged to TAVI and 1.9% in TAVI-only group (p<0.01). The 12-month follow-up demonstrated a similar pattern; 42.3% vs 13.9% vs 4.5% (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests no significant difference in inpatient and periprocedural morbidity and mortality between the three groups but a significant mortality benefit at 6-month and 12-month post valve insertion, either directly or post BAV.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Therapy for Bicuspid Aortic Valve Stenosis

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has become first-line treatment for older adults with severe aortic stenosis (AS), however, patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) have been traditionally excluded from randomised trials and guidelines. As familiarity and proficiency of TAVI operators have improved, case-series and observational data have demonstrated the feasibility of successful TAVI in bicuspid aortic valve aortic stenosis (BAV-AS), however, patients with BAV-AS have several distinct characteristics that influence the likelihood of TAVI success. This review aims to summarise the pathophysiology and classification of BAV, published safety data, anatomical challenges and procedural considerations essential for pre-procedural planning, patient selection and procedural success of TAVI in BAV.

Clinical Features and Outcomes Among Patients With Refractory Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest and an Initial Shockable Rhythm

BACKGROUND

Clinical features among patients with refractory out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and initial shockable rhythms of ventricular fibrillation/pulseless ventricular tachycardia are not well-characterized.

METHODS

We compared clinical characteristics and coronary angiographic findings between patients with refractory OHCA (incessant ventricular fibrillation/pulseless ventricular tachycardia after ≥3 direct-current shocks) and those without refractory OHCA.

RESULTS

Between 2014 and 2018, a total of 204 patients with ventricular fibrillation/pulseless ventricular tachycardia OHCA (median age 62; males 78%) were divided into groups with (36%, 74/204) and without refractory arrest (64%, 130/204). Refractory OHCA patients had longer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (23 versus 15 minutes), more frequently required ≥450 mg amiodarone (34% versus 3.8%), and had cardiogenic shock (80% versus 55%) necessitating higher adrenaline dose (4.0 versus 1.0 mg) and higher rates of mechanical ventilation (92% versus 74%; all P<0.01). Of 167 patients (82%) selected for coronary angiography, 33% (n=55) had refractory OHCA (P=0.035). Significant coronary artery disease (≥1 major vessel with >70% stenosis) was present in >70% of patients. Refractory OHCA patients frequently had acute coronary occlusion (64% versus 47%), especially left circumflex (20% versus 6.4%) and graft vessel (7.3% versus 0.9%; all P<0.05) compared with those without refractory OHCA. Refractory OHCA group had higher in-hospital mortality (45% versus 30%, P=0.036) and greater new requirement for dialysis (18% versus 6.3%, P=0.011). After adjustment, refractory OHCA was associated with over 2-fold higher odds of in-hospital mortality (odds ratio, 2.28 [95% CI, 1.06-4.89]; P=0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

Refractory ventricular fibrillation/pulseless ventricular tachycardia OHCA was associated with more intensive resuscitation, higher rates of acute coronary occlusion, and poorer in-hospital outcomes, underscoring the need for future studies in this extreme-risk subgroup.

Effect of Concomitant Cardiac Arrest on Outcomes in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome-Related Cardiogenic Shock

Patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS)-related cardiogenic shock (CS) with or without concomitant CA may have disparate prognoses. We compared clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with CS secondary to ACS with and without cardiac arrest (CA). Between 2014 and 2020, 1,573 patients with ACS-related CS with or without CA who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention enrolled in a multicenter Australian registry were analyzed. Primary outcome was 30-day major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) (composite of mortality, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, target vessel revascularization and stroke). Long-term mortality was obtained through linkage to the National Death Index. Compared with the no-CA group (n = 769, 49%), the CA group (n = 804, 51%) was younger (62 vs 69 years, p <0.001) and had fewer comorbidities. Patients with CA more frequently had ST-elevation myocardial infarction (92% vs 86%), occluded left anterior descending artery (43% vs 33%), and severe preprocedural renal impairment (49% vs 42%) (all p <0.001). CA increased risk of 30-day MACCE by 45% (odds ratio 1.45, 95% confidence interval 1.05 to 2.00, p = 0.024) after adjustment. CA group had higher 30-day MACCE (55% vs 42%, p <0.001) and mortality (52% vs 37%, p <0.001). Three-year survival was lower for CA compared with no-CA patients (43% vs 52%, p <0.001). In Cox regression, CS with CA was associated with a trend toward greater long-term mortality hazard (hazard ratio 1.19, 95% confidence interval 1.00 to 1.41, p = 0.055). In conclusion, concomitant CA among patients with ACS-related CS conferred a particularly heightened short-term risk with a diminishing legacy effect over time for mortality. CS survivors continue to exhibit high sustained long-term mortality hazard regardless of CA status.

Left Ventricular End-Diastolic Pressure for the Prediction of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Who Underwent Primary Percutaneous Intervention (the ELEVATE Study)

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is an important complication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We investigated whether left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) in patients who underwent PCI might be additive to current risk stratification of CIN. Data from consecutive patients who underwent primary PCI for ST-elevation myocardial infarction between 2013 and 2018 at Western Health in Victoria, Australia were analyzed. CIN was defined as a 25% increase in serum creatinine from baseline or 44 µmol/L increase in absolute value within 48 hours of contrast administration. Compared with patients without CIN (n = 455, 93%), those who developed CIN (n = 35, 7%) were older (64 vs 58 years, p = 0.006), and had higher peak creatine kinase (2,862 [1,258 to 3,952] vs 1,341 U/L [641 to 2,613], p = 0.02). The CIN group had higher median LVEDP (30 [21-33] vs 25 mm Hg [20-30], p = 0.013) and higher median Mehran risk score (MRS) (5 [2-8] vs 2 [1-5], p <0.001). Patients with CIN had more in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (composite end point of death, new or recurrent myocardial infarction or stent thrombosis, target vessel revascularization or stroke) (23% vs 8.6%, p = 0.01), but similar 30-day major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (20% vs 15%, p = 0.46). An LVEDP >30 mm Hg independently predicted CIN (odds ratio 3.4, 95% confidence interval 1.46 to 8.03, p = 0.005). The addition of LVEDP ≥30 mm Hg to MRS marginally improved risk prediction for CIN compared with MRS alone (area-under-curve, c-statistic = 0.71 vs c-statistic = 0.63, p = 0.08). In conclusion, elevated LVEDP ≥30 mm Hg during primary PCI was an independent predictor of CIN in patients treated for ST-elevation myocardial infarction. The addition of LVEDP to the MRS may improve risk prediction for CIN.

Haemodynamic and metabolic adaptations in coronary microvascular disease

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate the microcirculatory resistance (MR) and myocardial metabolic adaptations at rest and in response to increased cardiac workload in patients with suspected coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD).

METHODS

Patients with objective ischaemia and/or myocardial injury and non-obstructive coronary artery disease underwent thermodilution-derived microcirculatory assessment and transcardiac blood sampling during graded exercise with adenosine-mediated hyperaemia. We measured MR at rest and following supine cycle ergometry. Patients (n=24) were stratified by the resting index of MR (IMR) into normal-IMR (IMR<22U, n=12) and high-IMR groups (IMR≥22U, n=12).

RESULTS

The mean age was 57 years; 67% were males and 38% had hypertension. The normal-IMR group had increased IMR response to exercise (16±5 vs 23±12U, p=0.03) compared with the high-IMR group, who had persistently elevated IMR at rest and following exercise (38±19 vs 33±15U, p=0.39) despite similar exercise duration and rate-pressure product between the groups, both p>0.05. The normal-IMR group had augmented oxygen extraction ratio following exercise (53±18 vs 64±11%, p=0.03) compared with the high-IMR group (65±14 vs 59±11%, p=0.26). The postexercise lactate uptake was greater in the high-IMR (0.04±0.05 vs 0.11±0.07 mmol/L, p=0.004) compared with normal-IMR group (0.08±0.06 vs 0.09±0.09 mmol/L, p=0.67). The high-IMR group demonstrated greater troponin release following exercise compared with the normal-IMR group (0.13±0.12 vs 0.001±0.05 ng/L, p=0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with suspected CMD appear to have distinctive microcirculatory resistive and myocardial metabolic profiles at rest and in response to exercise. These differences in phenotypes may permit individualised therapies targeting microvascular responsiveness (normal-IMR group) and/or myocardial metabolic adaptations (normal-IMR and high-IMR groups).

Sex differences among patients presenting to hospital with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and shockable rhythm

OBJECTIVE

Sex differences in patients presenting with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and shockable rhythm might be associated with disparities in clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study and compared characteristics and short-term outcomes between male and female adult patients who presented with OHCA and shockable rhythm at two large metropolitan health services in Melbourne, Australia between the period of 2014-2018. Logistic regression was used to assess the effect of sex on clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Of 212 patients, 166 (78%) were males and 46 (22%) were females. Both males and females presented with similar rates of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (44% vs 36%, P = 0.29), although males were more likely to have a history of coronary artery disease (32% vs 13%) and a final diagnosis of a cardiac cause for their OHCA (89% vs 72%), both P = 0.01. Rates of coronary angiography (81% vs 71%, P = 0.23) and percutaneous coronary intervention (51% vs 42%, P = 0.37) were comparable among males and females. No differences in rates of in-hospital mortality (38% vs 37%, P = 0.90) and 30-day major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (composite of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization and nonfatal stroke) (39% vs 41%, P = 0.79) were observed between males and females, respectively. Female sex was not associated with worse in-hospital mortality when adjusted for other variables (odds ratio 0.66, 95% confidence interval 0.28-1.60, P = 0.36).

CONCLUSION

Among patients presenting with OHCA and a shockable rhythm, baseline sex and sex differences were not associated with disparities in short-term outcomes in contemporary systems of care.

Age as a predictor of clinical outcomes and determinant of therapeutic measures for emergency medical services treated cardiogenic shock

BACKGROUND

The impact of age on outcomes in cardiogenic shock (CS) is poorly described in the pre-hospital setting. We assessed the impact of age on outcomes of patients treated by emergency medical services (EMS).

METHODS

This population-based cohort study included consecutive adult patients with CS transported to hospital by EMS. Successfully linked patients were stratified into tertiles by age (18-63, 64-77, and > 77 years). Predictors of 30-day mortality were assessed through regression analyses. The primary outcome was 30-day all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 3523 patients with CS were successfully linked to state health records. The average age was 68 ± 16 years and 1398 (40%) were female. Older patients were more likely to have comorbidities including pre-existing coronary artery disease, hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and cerebrovascular disease. The incidence of CS was significantly greater with increasing age (incidence rate per 100,000 person years 6.47 [95% CI: 6.1-6.8] in age 18-63 years, 34.34 [32.4-36.4] in age 64-77 years, 74.87 [70.6-79.3] in age > 77 years, P < 0.001). There was a step-wise increase in the rate of 30-day mortality with increasing age tertile. After adjustment, compared to the lowest age tertile, patients aged > 77 years had increased risk of 30-day mortality (adjusted hazard ratio = 2.26 [95% CI: 1.96-2.60]). Older patients were less likely to receive inpatient coronary angiography.

CONCLUSION

Older patients with EMS-treated CS have significantly higher rates of short-term mortality. The reduced rates of invasive interventions in older patients underscore the need for further development of systems of care to improve outcomes for this patient group.

UpStreAm doxycycline in ST-eLeVation myocArdial infarction - targetinG infarct hEaling and ModulatIon (SALVAGE-MI trial)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Experimental studies demonstrate protective effects of doxycycline on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. The trial investigated whether doxycycline administered prior to reperfusion in patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) reduces infarct size (IS) and ameliorates adverse left ventricular (LV) remodeling.

METHODS

In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, patients presenting with STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) were randomized to either intravenous doxycycline or placebo prior to reperfusion followed by 7-days of oral doxycycline or placebo. The primary outcome was final IS adjusted for area-at-risk (fIS/AAR) measured on two cardiac magnetic resonance scans ∼6 months apart.

RESULTS

Of 103 participants, 50 were randomized to doxycycline and 53 to placebo and were matched for age (59 ± 12 vs. 60 ± 10 years), male sex (92% vs. 79%), diabetes mellitus (26% vs. 11%) and left anterior descending artery occlusion (50% vs. 49%), all p > 0.05. Patients treated with doxycycline had a trend for larger fIS/AAR (0.79 [0.5-0.9] vs. 0.61 [0.47-0.76], p = 0.06), larger fIS at 6 months (18.8% [12-26] vs. 13.6% [11-21], p = 0.08), but similar acute IS (21.7% [17-34] vs. 19.4% [14-27], p = 0.19) and AAR (26% [20-36] vs. 24.7% [16-31], p = 0.22) compared to placebo. Doxycycline did not ameliorate adverse LV remodeling (%Δend-diastolic volume index, 1.1% [-3.8-8.4] vs. -1.34% [-6.1-5.8], p = 0.42) and was independently associated with larger fIS (regression coefficient = 0.175, p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Doxycycline prior to PPCI neither reduced IS acutely or at 6 months nor attenuated adverse LV remodeling. These data raise safety concerns regarding doxycycline use in STEMI for infarct modulation and healing.

Evaluation of factors associated with selection for coronary angiography and in-hospital mortality among patients presenting with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest without ST-segment elevation

BACKGROUND

Clinical factors favouring coronary angiography (CA) selection and variables associated with in-hospital mortality among patients presenting with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) without ST-segment elevation (STE) remain unclear.

METHODS

We evaluated clinical characteristics associated with CA selection and in-hospital mortality in patients with OHCA, shockable rhythm and no STE.

RESULTS

Between 2014 and 2018, 118 patients with OHCA and shockable rhythm without STE (mean age 59; males 75%) were stratified by whether CA was performed. Of 86 (73%) patients undergoing CA, 30 (35%) received percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). CA patients had shorter return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) time (17 vs. 25 min) and were more frequently between 50 and 60 years (29% vs. 6.5%), with initial Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score >8 (24% vs. 6%) (all p < 0.05). In-hospital mortality was 33% (n = 39) for overall cohort (CA 27% vs. no-CA 50%, p = 0.02). Compared to late CA, early CA ( ≤ 2 h) was not associated with lower in-hospital mortality (32% vs. 34%, p = 0.82). Predictors of in-hospital mortality included longer defibrillation time (odds ratio 3.07, 95% confidence interval 1.44-6.53 per 5-min increase), lower pH (2.02, 1.33-3.09 per 0.1 decrease), hypoalbuminemia (2.02, 1.03-3.95 per 5 g/L decrease), and baseline renal dysfunction (1.33, 1.02-1.72 per 10 ml/min/1.73 m² decrease), while PCI to lesion (0.11, 0.01-0.79) and bystander defibrillation (0.06, 0.004-0.80) were protective factors (all p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with OHCA and shockable rhythm without STE, younger age, shorter time to ROSC and GCS >8 were associated with CA selection, while less effective resuscitation, greater burden of comorbidities and absence of treatable coronary lesion were key adverse prognostic predictors.

HOSPITAL CHARACTERISTICS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH CLINICAL OUTCOMES IN PATIENTS WITH CARDIOGENIC SHOCK

ABSTRACT

Background: Regionalized systems of care for the management of cardiogenic shock (CS) are increasingly being utilized. This study aims to assess whether receiving hospital characteristics such as the availability of 24-hour coronary angiography, on-site cardiac surgery, and annual treated CS volume influence outcomes in patients transferred by emergency medical services (EMS) to hospital with CS. Methods: This population-based cohort study included consecutive adult patients with CS who were transferred to hospital by EMS between January 1, 2015 and June 30, 2019 in Victoria, Australia. Data were obtained from individually linked ambulance, hospital, and state death index data sets. The primary outcome assessed was 30-day mortality stratified by the availability of 24-hour coronary angiography (cardiac center) at the receiving hospital. Results: A total of 3,217 patients were transferred to hospital with CS. The population had an average age of 67.9 +/- 16.1 years, and 1,289 (40.1%) were female. EMS transfer to a cardiac center was associated with significantly reduced rates of 30-day mortality (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.64-0.95), compared with noncardiac centers. Compared with the lowest annual CS volume quartile (<18 cases per year), hospitals in the highest volume quartile (>55 cases per year) had reduced risk of 30-day mortality (aOR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.56-0.91). A stepwise reduction in the adjusted probability of 30-day mortality was observed in patients transferred by EMS to trauma level 1 centers (34.6%), compared with cardiothoracic surgical centers (39.0%), noncardiac surgical metropolitan (44.9%), and rural (51.3%) cardiac centers, all P < 0.05. Conclusion: Receiving hospital characteristics are associated with survival outcomes in patients with CS. These finding have important implications for establishing regionalized systems of care for patients with CS who are transferred to hospital by EMS.

Adverse Impact of Peri-Procedural Stroke in Patients Who Underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Peri-procedural stroke (PPS) is an important complication in patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The extent to which PPS impacts mortality and outcomes remains to be defined. Consecutive patients who underwent PCI enrolled in the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry (2014 to 2018) were categorized into PPS and no PPS groups. The primary outcome was 30-day major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) (composite of mortality, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, and unplanned revascularization). Of 50,300 patients, PPS occurred in 0.26% patients (n = 133) (71% ischemic, and 29% hemorrhagic etiology). Patients who developed PPS were older (69 vs 66 years) compared with patients with no PPS, and more likely to have pre-existing heart failure (59% vs 29%), chronic kidney disease (33% vs 20%), and previous cerebrovascular disease (13% vs 3.6%), p <0.01. Among those with PPS, there was a higher frequency of presentation with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (49% vs 18%) and out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (14% vs 2.2%), PCI by way of femoral access (59% vs 46%), and adjunctive thrombus aspiration (12% vs 3.6%), all p = <0.001. PPS was associated with incident 30-day MACE (odds ratio [OR] 2.97, 95% confidence intervals [CIs] 1.86 to 4.74, p <0.001) after multivariable adjustment. Utilizing inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis, PPS remained predictive of 30-day MACE (OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.31 to 2.80, p = 0.001) driven by higher 30-day mortality (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.35 to 2.96, p = 0.001). In conclusion, in this large, multi-center registry, the incidence of PPS was low; however, its clinical sequelae were significant, with a twofold increased risk of 30-day MACE and all-cause death.

Gender Disparities in Cardiogenic Shock Treatment and Outcomes

Cardiogenic shock is associated with a high risk for morbidity and mortality. The impact of gender on treatment and outcomes is poorly defined. This study aimed to evaluate whether gender influences the clinical management and outcomes of patients with prehospital cardiogenic shock. Consecutive adult patients with cardiogenic shock who were transferred to hospital by emergency medical services (EMS) between January 1, 2015 and June 30, 2019 in Victoria, Australia were included. Data were obtained from individually linked ambulance, hospital, and state death index datasets. The primary outcome assessed was 30-day mortality, stratified by patient gender. Propensity score matching was performed for risk adjustment. Over the study period a total of 3,465 patients were identified and 1,389 patients (40.1%) were women. Propensity score matching yielded 1,330 matched pairs with no differences observed in baseline characteristics, including age, initial vital signs, pre-existing co-morbidities, etiology of shock, and prehospital interventions. In the matched cohort, women had higher rates of 30-day mortality (44.7% vs 39.2%, p = 0.009), underwent less coronary angiography (18.3% vs 27.2%, p <0.001), and revascularization with percutaneous coronary intervention (8.9% vs 14.2%, p <0.001), compared with men. In conclusion, in this large population-based study, women with cardiogenic shock who were transferred by EMS to hospital had significantly worse survival outcomes and reduced rates of invasive cardiac interventions compared to men. These data underscore the urgent need for targeted public health measures to redress gender differences in outcomes and variation with clinical care for patients with cardiogenic shock.

Determinants of Undertaking Coronary Angiography and Adverse Prognostic Predictors Among Patients Presenting With Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest and a Shockable Rhythm

Characteristics of patients presenting with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) selected for coronary angiography (CA) and factors predicting in-hospital mortality remain unclear. We assessed clinical characteristics associated with undertaking CA in patients presenting with OHCA and shockable rhythm (CA group). Predictors of in-hospital mortality were evaluated with multivariable analysis. Of 1,552 patients presenting with cardiac arrest between 2014 and 2018 to 2 health services in Victoria, Australia, 213 patients with OHCA and shockable rhythm were stratified according to CA status. The CA group had shorter cardiopulmonary resuscitation duration (17 vs 25 minutes) and time to return of spontaneous circulation (17 vs 26 minutes) but higher proportion of ST-elevation on electrocardiogram (48% vs 24%) (all p <0.01). In-hospital mortality was 38% (n = 81) for the overall cohort, 32% (n = 54) in the CA group, and 61% (n = 27) in the no-CA group. Predictors of in-hospital mortality included non-selection for CA (odds ratio 4.5, 95% confidence interval 1.5 to 14), adrenaline support (3.9, 1.3 to 12), arrest at home (2.7, 1.1 to 6.6), longer time to defibrillation (2.5, 1.5 to 4.2 per 5-minute increase), lower blood pH (2.1, 1.4 to 3.2 per 0.1 decrease), lower albumin (2.0, 1.2 to 3.3 per 5 g/L decrease), higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score (1.7, 1.0 to 3.0 per 5-point increase), and advanced age (1.4, 1.0 to 2.0 per 10-year increase) (all p ≤0.05). In conclusion, non-selection for CA, concomitant cardiogenic shock requiring inotropic support, poor initial resuscitation (arrest at home, longer time to defibrillation and lower pH), greater burden of co-morbidities (higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score and lower albumin), and advanced age were key adverse prognostic indicators among patients with OHCA and shockable rhythm.

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.

Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Volume and Cardiac Surgery Availability Effect on Acute Coronary Syndrome-Related Cardiogenic Shock

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to assess the association between cardiac surgery availability and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) volume with clinical outcomes of cardiogenic shock (CS) complicating acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

BACKGROUND

CS remains a grave complication of ACS with high mortality rates despite timely reperfusion and improved heart failure therapies.

METHODS

The study analyzed data from consecutive patients with CS complicating ACS who underwent PCI and were prospectively enrolled in the VCOR (Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry) from 26 hospitals in Victoria. We compared patients treated at cardiac surgical centers (CSCs) versus non-CSCs as well as the annual CS PCI volume (stratified into tiers of <10, 10-25, and >25 cases) for in-hospital major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) and long-term mortality.

RESULTS

Of 1,179 patients with CS, the mean age of patients was 65 years; males comprised 74%, and 22% had diabetes mellitus. Cardiac arrest occurred in 38% of patients, while 90% presented with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and 26% received intra-aortic balloon pump support. Overall, in-hospital and long-term mortality were 42% and 51%, respectively. There was no difference among patients treated non-CSCs compared with a CSCs for in-hospital MACCE and mortality (both P > 0.05). Similarly, there was no association between tiers of annual CS PCI volume with in-hospital MACCE and mortality (both P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Comparable short- and long-term mortality rates among patients with ACS complicated by CS treated by PCI irrespective of cardiac surgery availability and CS PCI volume support the emergent treatment of these gravely ill patients at their presenting PCI-capable hospital.

Temporal Changes in Pollen Concentration Predict Short-Term Clinical Outcomes in Acute Coronary Syndromes

Background Atmospheric changes in pollen concentration may affect human health by triggering various allergic processes. We sought to assess if changes in pollen concentrations were associated with different acute coronary syndrome (ACS) subtype presentations and short-term clinical outcomes. Methods and Results We analyzed data in consecutive patients presenting with ACS (unstable angina, non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction, and ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction) treated with percutaneous coronary intervention between January 2014 and December 2017 and enrolled in the VCOR (Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry). Baseline characteristics were compared among patients exposed to different grass and total pollen concentrations. The primary outcome was occurrence of ACS subtypes and 30-day major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (composite of mortality, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, target vessel revascularization, or stroke). Of 15 379 patients, 7122 (46.3%) presented with ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction, 6781 (44.1%) with non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction, and 1476 (9.6%) with unstable angina. The mean age was 62.5 years, with men comprising 76% of patients. No association was observed between daily or seasonal grass and total pollen concentrations with the frequency of ACS subtype presentation. However, grass and total pollen concentrations in the preceding days (2-day average for grass pollen and 7-day average for total pollen) correlated with in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR], 2.17 [95% CI, 1.12-4.21]; P=0.021 and OR, 2.78 [95% CI, 1.00-7.74]; P=0.05), respectively, with a trend of 2-day grass pollen for 30-day major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (OR, 1.50 [95% CI, 0.97-2.32]; P=0.066). Conclusions Increased pollen concentrations were not associated with differential ACS subtype presentation but were significantly related to in-hospital mortality following percutaneous coronary intervention, underscoring a potential biologic link between pollen exposure and clinical outcomes.

Long-Term Outcomes of Unprotected Left Main Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Centers Without Onsite Cardiac Surgery

Unprotected left main (LM) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) at centers without onsite cardiac surgery remains controversial. We aimed to evaluate the effect of onsite cardiac surgery on short-term and long-term outcomes in patients who had unprotected LM PCI. We analyzed Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry data on consecutive patients who had unprotected LM PCI at cardiac surgical centers (SCs) and non-SCs (NSCs) between January 2014 to December 2018. Compared with the SC group (n = 594, 81%), the NSC group (n = 136) were younger (69 vs 72 years) and presented with more ST-elevation myocardial infarction (35% vs 16%) and cardiogenic shock (25% vs 15%), with higher rates of preprocedural intubation (17% vs 11%) and mechanical circulatory support (20% vs 9.3%), all p <0.01. Unadjusted in-hospital mortality (23% vs 11.4%), and 30-day major adverse cardiac events (composite of mortality, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, or unplanned revascularization) (26% vs 16%) were higher in NSC patients, all p <0.01. However, following multivariable adjustment, SC was neither a predictor of in-hospital mortality (odds ratio 0.68, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.32 to 1.43, p = 0.31), 30-day mortality (odds ratio 0.70, 95% CI 0.33 to 1.48, p = 0.35) nor long-term survival at 60 months (hazard ratio 0.88, 95% CI 0.62 to 1.27, p = 0.51). Propensity score analysis confirmed the neutral effect of onsite cardiac surgery on long-term survival (hazard ratio 0.99, 95% CI 0.66 to 1.50, p = 0.97). In conclusion, patients who underwent unprotected LM PCI at NSCs presented with greater acuity of illness. Despite this, the availability of onsite cardiac surgical support was not associated with in-hospital, 30-day, or long-term outcomes underscoring the safety of LM PCI in NSCs.

Incidence and Outcomes of Nontraumatic Shock in Adults Using Emergency Medical Services in Victoria, Australia

IMPORTANCE

Nontraumatic shock is a challenging clinical condition, presenting urgent and unique demands in the prehospital setting. There is a paucity of data assessing its incidence, etiology, and clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the incidence, etiology, and clinical outcomes of patients treated by emergency medical services (EMS) with nontraumatic shock using a large population-based sample.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This population-based cohort study included consecutive adult patients with shock not related to trauma who received care by EMS between January 1, 2015, and June 30, 2019, in Victoria, Australia. Data were obtained from individually linked ambulance, hospital, and state death index data sets. During the study period there were 2 485 311 cases attended by EMS, of which 16 827 met the study's inclusion criteria for shock.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Secondary outcomes included length of hospital stay, emergency department discharge disposition, rates of coronary angiography and revascularization procedures, and the use of mechanical circulatory support.

RESULTS

A total of 12 695 patients were successfully linked, with a mean (SD) age of 65.7 (19.1) years; 6411 (50.5%) were men. The overall population-wide incidence of EMS-treated prehospital shock was 76 (95% CI, 75-77) per 100 000 person-years. An increased incidence was observed in men (79 [77-81] per 100 000 person-years), older patients (eg, aged 70-79 years: 177 [171-183] per 100 000 person-years), regional locations (outer regional or remote: 100 [94-107] per 100 000 person-years), and in areas with increased socioeconomic disadvantage (lowest socioeconomic status quintile: 92 [89-95] per 100 000 person-years). Patients with hospital outcome data were stratified into shock etiologies; 3615 (28.5%) had cardiogenic shock: 3998 (31.5%), septic shock; 1457 (11.5%), hypovolemic shock; and 3625 (28.6%), other causes of shock. Nearly one-third of patients (4158 [32.8%]) were deceased at 30 days. In multivariable analyses, increased age (all etiologies: hazard ratio [HR], 1.04; 95% CI, 1.03-1.04), female sex (cardiogenic shock: HR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.12-1.42), increased initial heart rate (all etiologies: 1.01; 95% CI, 1.00-1.01), prehospital intubation (all etiologies: HR, 3.93; 95% CI, 3.48-4.44), and preexisting comorbidities (eg, chronic kidney disease, all etiologies: HR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.10-1.42) were independently associated with 30-day mortality, while higher socioeconomic status (all etiologies: HR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.94-0.98) and increased initial systolic blood pressure (all etiologies: HR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.99-0.99) were associated with lower risk.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This population-level cohort study found that EMS-treated nontraumatic shock was a common condition, with a high risk of morbidity and mortality regardless of etiology. It disproportionately affected men, older patients, patients in regional areas, and those with social disadvantage. Further studies are required to assess how current systems of care can be optimized to improve outcomes.

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.

Pre-hospital heparin use for ST-elevation myocardial infarction is safe and improves angiographic outcomes

AIMS

This study aims to evaluate if pre-hospital heparin administration by paramedics is safe and improves clinical outcomes.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Using the multicentre Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry, linked with state-wide ambulance records, we identified consecutive patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention for STEMI between January 2014 and December 2018. Information on thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow at angiography was available in a subset of cases. Patients receiving pre-hospital heparin were compared to those who did not receive heparin. Findings at coronary angiography and 30-day clinical outcomes were compared between groups. Propensity-score matching was performed for risk adjustment. We identified a total of 4720 patients. Of these, 1967 patients had TIMI flow data available. Propensity-score matching in the entire cohort yielded 1373 matched pairs. In the matched cohort, there was no observed difference in 30-day mortality (no-heparin 3.5% vs. heparin 3.0%, P = 0.25), MACCE (no-heparin 7% vs. heparin 6.2%, P = 0.44), and major bleeding (no-heparin 1.9% vs. heparin 1.4%, P = 0.64) between groups. Propensity-score analysis amongst those with TIMI data produced 552 matched pairs. The proportion of cases with TIMI 0 or 1 flow in the infarct-related artery (IRA) was lower among those receiving pre-hospital heparin (66% vs. 76%, P < 0.001) compared to those who did not.

CONCLUSION 

In this multicentre, propensity-score matched study, the use of pre-hospital heparin by paramedics was safe and is associated with fewer occluded IRAs in patients presenting with STEMI.

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.

Adverse impact of chronic kidney disease on clinical outcomes following percutaneous coronary intervention

AIMS

We aimed to assess the impact of the severity of chronic kidney disease (CKD) with long-term clinical outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

We analyzed data on consecutive patients undergoing PCI enrolled in the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry (VCOR) from January 2014 to December 2018. Patients were stratified into tertiles of renal function; estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) ≥60, 30-59 and < 30 ml/min/1.73 m² (including dialysis). The primary outcome was long-term all-cause mortality obtained from linkage with the Australian National Death Index (NDI). The secondary endpoint was a composite of 30 day major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 51,480 patients (eGFR ≥60, n = 40,534; eGFR 30-59, n = 9,521; eGFR <30, n = 1,425). Compared with patients whose eGFR was ≥60, those with eGFR 30-59 and eGFR<30 were on average older (77 and 78 vs. 63 years) and had a greater burden of cardiovascular risk factors. Worsening CKD severity was independently associated with greater adjusted risk of long-term NDI mortality: eGFR<30 hazard ratio 4.21 (CI 3.7-4.8) and eGFR 30-59; 1.8 (CI 1.7-2.0), when compared to eGFR ≥60, all p < .001.

CONCLUSION

In this large, multicentre PCI registry, severity of CKD was associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality underscoring the high-risk nature of this patient cohort.

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.

Cardiac Arrest in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory: Initial Experience With the Role of Simulation Setup and Training

With rising complexity of percutaneous coronary interventions being performed, the incidence of cardiac arrest in the cardiac catheterization laboratory (CCL) is likely to increase. The authors undertook a series of multidisciplinary simulation sessions to identify practice deficiencies and propose solutions to improve patient care. Five simulation sessions were held at Western Health CCL to simulate different cardiac arrest scenarios. Participants included cardiologists, intensivists, anesthetists, nurses, and technicians. Post-simulation feedback was analyzed qualitatively. Challenges encountered were grouped into 4 areas: (1) communication and teamwork, (2) equipment, (3) vascular access and drugs, and (4) physical environment and radiation exposure. Proposed solutions included regular simulation training; increasing familiarity with the physical environment, utilization of specialized equipment; and formation of 2 team leaders to improve efficiency. Cardiac arrest in the CCL is a unique clinical event that necessitates specific training to improve technical and nontechnical skills with potential to improve clinical outcomes.

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.

Bleeding Severity in Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) and Its Impact on Short-Term Clinical Outcomes

Bleeding severity in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), defined by the Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC), portends adverse prognosis. We analysed data from 37,866 Australian patients undergoing PCI enrolled in the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry (VCOR), and investigated the association between increasing BARC severity and in-hospital and 30-day major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) (a composite of mortality, myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, target vessel revascularisation, or stroke). Independent predictors associated with major bleeding (BARC groups 3&5), and MACCE were also assessed. There was a stepwise increase in in-hospital and 30-day MACCE with greater severity of bleeding. Independent predictors of bleeding included female sex (Odds Ratio (OR) 1.34), age (OR 1.02), fibrinolytic therapy (OR 1.77), femoral access (OR 1.51), and ticagrelor (OR 1.42), all significant at the p < 0.001 level. Following adjustment of clinically important variables, BARC 3&5 bleeds (OR 4.37) were still predictive of cumulative in-hospital and 30-day MACCE. In conclusion, major bleeding is an uncommon but potentially fatal PCI complication and was independently associated with greater MACCE rates. Efforts to mitigate the occurrence of bleeding, including radial access and judicious use of potent antiplatelet therapies, may ameliorate the risk of short-term adverse clinical outcomes.