Age and Sex Differences and Temporal Trends in the Use of Invasive and Noninvasive Procedures in Patients Hospitalized With Acute Myocardial Infarction

Background

Few studies have examined age and sex differences in the receipt of cardiac diagnostic and interventional procedures in patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction and trends in these possible differences during recent years.

Methods and Results

Data from patients hospitalized with a first acute myocardial infarction at the major medical centers in the Worcester, Massachusetts, metropolitan area were utilized for this study. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine age (<55, 55–64, 65–74, and ≥75 years) and sex differences in the receipt of echocardiography, exercise stress testing, coronary angiography, percutaneous coronary interventions, and coronary artery bypass graft surgery, and trends in the use of those procedures during patients' acute hospitalization, between 2005 and 2018, while adjusting for important confounding factors. The study population consisted of 1681 men and 1154 women with an initial acute myocardial infarction who were hospitalized on an approximate biennial basis between 2005 and 2018. A smaller proportion of women underwent cardiac catheterization, percutaneous coronary intervention, and coronary artery bypass graft surgery, while there were no sex differences in the receipt of echocardiography and exercise stress testing. Patients aged ≥75 years were less likely to undergo cardiac catheterization, percutaneous coronary intervention, and coronary artery bypass graft surgery, but were more likely to receive echocardiography compared with younger patients. Between 2005 and 2018, the use of echocardiography and coronary artery bypass graft surgery nonsignificantly increased among all age groups and both sexes, while the use of cardiac catheterization and percutaneous coronary intervention increased nonsignificantly faster in women and older patients.

Conclusions

We observed a continued lower receipt of invasive cardiac procedures in women and patients aged ≥75 years with acute myocardial infarction, but age and sex gaps associated with these procedures have narrowed during recent years.

Use of In-Situ Simulation Based Clinical Systems Test of Thoracic Robotic Surgery Emergencies

INTRODUCTION

With the advancement of robotic surgery, some thoracic surgeons have been slow to adopt to this new operative approach, in part because they are un-scrubbed and away from the patient while operating. Aiming to allay surgeon concerns of intra-operative emergencies, an insitu simulation-based clinical system's test (SbCST) can be completed to test the current clinical system, and to practice low-frequency, high-stakes clinical scenarios with the entire operating room (OR) team.

METHODS

Six different OR teams completed an insitu SbCST of an intra-operative pulmonary artery injury during a robot-assisted thoracic surgery at a single tertiary care center. The OR team consisted of an attending thoracic surgeon, surgery resident, anesthesia attending, anesthesia resident, circulating nurse, and a scrub technician. This test was conducted with an entire OR team along with study observers and simulation center staff. Outcomes included the identified latent safety threats (LSTs) and possible solutions for each LST, culminating in a complete failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA). A Risk Priority Number (RPN) was determined for each LST identified. Pre- and post-simulation surveys using Likert scales were also collected.

RESULTS

The six FMEAs identified 28 potential LSTs in four categories. Of these 28 LSTs, nine were considered high priority based on their Risk Priority Number (RPN) with seven of the nine being repeated multiple times. Pre- and post-simulation survey responses were similar, with the majority of participants (94%) agreeing that high fidelity simulation of intra-operative emergencies is helpful and provides an opportunity to train for high-stakes, low-frequency events. After completing the SbCST, more participants felt confident that they knew their role during an intra-operative emergency than their pre-simulation survey responses. All participants agreed that simulation is an important part of continuing education and is helpful for learning skills that are infrequently used. Following the SbCST, more participants agreed that they knew how to safely undock the da Vinci robot during an emergency.

CONCLUSIONS

SbCSTs provide an opportunity to test the current clinical system with a low-frequency, high-stakes event and allow medical personnels to practice their skills and teamwork. By completing multiple SbCSTs, we were able to identify multiple LSTs within different OR teams, allowing for a broader review of the current clinical systems in place. The use of these SbCSTs in conjunction with debriefing sessions and FMEA completion allows for the most significant potential improvement of the current system. This study shows that SbCST with FMEA completion can be used to test current systems and create better systems for patient safety.

Temporal Trends and Patient Characteristics Associated with 30-Day Hospital Readmission Rates after a First Acute Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Limited data exist about relatively recent trends in the magnitude and characteristics of patients who are re-hospitalized after hospital admission for an acute myocardial infarction. This study examined trends in the frequency and sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients readmitted to the hospital within 30 days after an initial acute myocardial infarction.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of 3116 individuals who were hospitalized for a validated first acute myocardial infarction in 6 study periods between 2003 and 2015 at the 3 major medical centers in central Massachusetts.

RESULTS

The median age of our population was 67 years, and 42% were women. The risk of being readmitted to the hospital within 30 days after an initial acute myocardial infarction increased slightly during the most recent study years after controlling for potentially confounding factors. Overall, older adults and patients with previously diagnosed atrial fibrillation, heart failure, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease were at higher risk for being readmitted to the hospital than respective comparison groups. For those hospitalized in the most recent study years of 2011/2015, a higher risk of rehospitalization was associated with a previous diagnosis of chronic kidney disease, peripheral vascular disease, the presence of 3 or more chronic conditions, and having developed atrial fibrillation or heart failure during the patient's hospitalization for a first acute myocardial infarction.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified several groups at higher risk for hospital readmission in whom enhanced surveillance efforts as well as tailored educational and treatment approaches remain needed.

Trends in the magnitude of chronic conditions in patients hospitalized with a first acute myocardial infarction

Background:

Among adults with heart disease, there is a high prevalence of concomitant chronic medical conditions. We studied patients with a first acute myocardial infarction to describe: sample population characteristics; trends of the most prevalent pairs of chronic conditions; and differences in hospital management according to burden of these morbidities.

Methods and Results:

Patients (n = 1,564) hospitalized with an incident AMI at the 3 major medical centers in central Massachusetts during 2005, 2011, and 2015 comprised the study population. Hospital medical records were reviewed to identify 11 more prevalent chronic conditions. The median age of this population was 68 years and 56% were men. The median number of previously diagnosed chronic conditions was 2. Patients hospitalized during 2015 were more likely to be younger than those hospitalized in the earliest study cohorts. The most common pairs of chronic conditions for those hospitalized in 2005 were: anemia-chronic kidney disease (31%), chronic kidney disease-heart failure (30%), and stroke-atrial fibrillation (27%). Among patients hospitalized during 2011, chronic kidney disease-heart failure (29%), hypertension-hyperlipidemia (27%), and hypertension-diabetes (27%) were the most common pairs whereas hypertension-hyperlipidemia (43%), diabetes-heart failure (30%), and chronic kidney disease-diabetes (23%) were the most frequent pairs recorded in 2015. There was a significant decrease in the odds of undergoing cardiac catheterization and a percutaneous coronary intervention in those with higher chronic disease burden in the most recent as compared to earliest study years.

Conclusions:

Our findings highlight the magnitude of chronic conditions in patients with AMI and the challenges of caring for this vulnerable population.

Age Differences in the Chief Complaint Associated With a First Acute Myocardial Infarction and Patient's Care-Seeking Behavior

BACKGROUND

This study set out to describe age differences in patient's chief complaint related to a first myocardial infarction and how the "typicality" of patient's acute symptoms relates to extent of prehospital delay.

METHODS

The medical records of 2586 residents of central Massachusetts hospitalized at 11 greater Worcester medical centers with a first myocardial infarction on a biennial basis between 2001 and 2011 were reviewed.

RESULTS

The average age of the study population was 66.4 years, 39.6% were women, 40.2% were diagnosed with a ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), and 72.0 % presented with typical symptoms of myocardial infarction, namely acute chest pain or pressure. Patients were categorized into 5 age strata: >55 years (23%), 55-64 years (20%), 65-74 years (19%), 75-84 years (22%), and ≥85 years (16%). The lowest proportion (11%) of atypical symptoms of myocardial infarction was observed in patients <55 years, increasing to 17%, 28%, 40%, and 51% across the respective age groups. The most prevalent chief complaint reported at the time of hospitalization was chest pain, but the proportion of patients reporting this symptom decreased from the youngest (83%) to the oldest patient groups (45%). There was a slightly increased risk of prehospital delay across the different age groups (higher in the oldest old) in those who presented with atypical, rather than typical, symptoms of myocardial infarction.

CONCLUSIONS

The present results provide insights to the presenting chief complaint of patients hospitalized with a first myocardial infarction according to age and the relation of symptom presentation to patient's care-seeking behavior.

Changing Trends in the Landscape of Patients Hospitalized With Acute Myocardial Infarction (2001 to 2011) (from the Worcester Heart Attack Study)

During the past several decades, new diagnostic tools, interventional approaches, and population-wide changes in the major coronary risk factors have taken place. However, few studies have examined relatively recent trends in the demographic characteristics, clinical profile, and the short-term outcomes of patients hospitalized for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) from the more generalizable perspective of a population-based investigation. We examined decade long trends (2001 to 2011) in patient's demographic and clinical characteristics, treatment practices, and hospital outcomes among residents of the Worcester metropolitan area hospitalized with an initial AMI (n = 3,730) at all 11 greater Worcester medical centers during 2001, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2009, and 2011. The average age of the study population was 68.5 years and 56.9% were men. Patients hospitalized with a first AMI during the most recent study years were significantly younger (mean age = 69.9 years in 2001/2003; 65.2 years in 2009/2011), had lower serum troponin levels, and experienced a shorter hospital stay compared with patients hospitalized during the earliest study years. Hospitalized patients were more likely to received evidence-based medical management practices over the decade long period under study. Multivariable-adjusted regression models showed a considerable decline over time in the hospital death rate and a significant reduction in the proportion of patients who developed atrial fibrillation, heart failure, and ventricular fibrillation during their acute hospitalization. These results highlight the changing nature of patients hospitalized with an incident AMI, and reinforce the need for surveillance of AMI at the community level.

Impact of cardiac- and noncardiac-related conditions on adverse outcomes in patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction

Background

To examine the impact of cardiac- and noncardiac-related conditions on the risk of hospital complications and 7- and 30-day rehospitalizations in older adult patients with an acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Methods and Results

The study population consisted of 3863 adults aged 65 years and older hospitalized with AMI in Worcester, Massachusetts, during six annual periods between 2001 and 2011. Individuals were categorized into four groups based on the presence of 11 previously diagnosed cardiac and noncardiac conditions. The median age of the study population was 79 years and 49% were men. Twenty-eight percent of patients had two or less cardiac- and no noncardiac-related conditions, 21% had two or less cardiac and one or more noncardiac conditions, 20% had three or more cardiac and no noncardiac conditions, and 31% had three or more cardiac and one or more noncardiac conditions. Individuals who presented with one or more noncardiac-related conditions were less likely to have been prescribed evidence-based medications and/or to have undergone coronary revascularization procedures than patients without any noncardiac condition. After multivariable adjustment, individuals with three or more cardiac and one or more noncardiac conditions were at greatest risk for all adverse outcomes.

Conclusions

Older patients hospitalized with AMI carry a significant burden of cardiac- and noncardiac-related conditions. Older adults who presented with multiple cardiac and noncardiac conditions experienced the worse short-term outcomes and treatment strategies should be developed to improve their in-hospital and post-discharge care and outcomes.

Mortality Associated With Opioid Overdose: A Review of Clinical Characteristics and Health Services Received in the Year Prior to Death

OBJECTIVE

To assess missed opportunities for reducing fatal opioid overdoses, characteristics of decedents by opioid overdose with and without problematic opioid use who received health care services within one year of death were examined.

METHODS

Of 157 decedents in the Worcester, Massachusetts, area between 2008 and 2012, 112 had contact with the health care system. Electronic medical records were reviewed for clinical characteristics, health service use, universal precautions, and substance use disorder management. Problematic opioid use was defined as individuals having documented opioid use disorders or aberrant drug-related behavior. Data were analyzed with chi-square tests with adjusted residual for categorical variables and t tests for continuous variables.

RESULTS

Decedents were predominantly Caucasian males with a mean±SD age of 41.0±11.7. Problematic opioid use by definition meant users (N=53) had opioid use disorder as a principal diagnosis and were likely to have a comorbid substance use disorder. Decedents with nonproblematic opioid use had diagnoses of chronic pain and mental illness. They were more likely to have been seen last in surgical and subspecialty settings (29% versus 11%). The proportion with an opioid prescription was higher among those with problematic use (72% versus 37%) who also had a higher total daily morphine equivalent, compared with those with nonproblematic use (165.4±282.7 versus 55.6±117.7 mg per day).

CONCLUSIONS

Persons with problematic opioid use are a recognizable group with a high risk of death by opioid overdose whose therapeutic management needs improvement to reduce fatal outcomes. Different strategies must be developed for identifying and treating nonproblematic opioid use to reduce risk of death.

Decade Long Trends (2001-2011) in the Incidence Rates of Initial Acute Myocardial Infarction

Despite the magnitude and impact of acute coronary disease, there are limited population-based data in the United States describing relatively recent trends in the incidence rates of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The objectives of this study were to describe decade long (2001-2011) trends in the incidence rates of initial hospitalized episodes of AMI, with further stratification of these rates by age, sex, and type of AMI, in residents of central Massachusetts hospitalized at 11 area medical centers. The study population consisted of 3,737 adults hospitalized with a first AMI at 11 medical centers in central Massachusetts on a biennial basis between 2001 and 2011. The median age of this study population was 70 years, 57% were men, and 90% were white. Patients hospitalized during the most recent study years (2009/11) were younger, more likely to be men, have more co-morbidities, and less in-hospital complications as compared with those in the earliest study years (2001/03). The overall age-adjusted hospital incidence rates (per 100,000 persons) of initial AMI declined (from 319 to 163), for men (from 422 to 219), women (from 232 to 120), for patients with a ST segment elevation (129 to 56), and for those with an non-ST segment elevation (190 to 107) between 2001 and 2011, respectively. In conclusion, the incidence rates of initial AMI declined appreciably in residents of central Massachusetts who were hospitalized with AMI during the years under study.

Twenty-Five-Year (1986-2011) Trends in the Incidence and Death Rates of Stroke Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

The occurrence of a stroke after an acute myocardial infarction is associated with increased morbidity and mortality rates. However, limited data are available, particularly from a population-based perspective, about recent trends in the incidence and mortality rates associated with stroke complicating an acute myocardial infarction. The purpose of this study was to examine 25-year trends (1986-2011) in the incidence and in-hospital mortality rates of initial episodes of stroke complicating acute myocardial infarction.

METHODS

The study population consisted of 11,436 adults hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction at all 11 medical centers in central Massachusetts on a biennial basis between 1986 and 2011.

RESULTS

In this study cohort, 159 patients (1.4%) experienced an acute first-ever stroke during hospitalization for acute myocardial infarction. The proportion of patients with acute myocardial infarction who developed a stroke increased through the 1990s but decreased slightly thereafter. Compared with patients who did not experience a stroke, those who experienced a stroke were significantly older, were more likely to be female, had a previous acute myocardial infarction, had a significant burden of comorbidities, and were more likely to have died (32.1% vs 10.8%) during their index hospitalization. Patients who developed a first stroke in the most recent study years (2003-2011) were more likely to have died during hospitalization than those hospitalized during earlier study years.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the incidence rates of acute stroke complicating acute myocardial infarction remained relatively stable during the years under study, the in-hospital mortality rates of those experiencing a stroke have not decreased.

Magnitude and impact of multiple chronic conditions with advancing age in older adults hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

To examine age-specific differences in the frequency and impact of cardiac and non-cardiac conditions among patients aged 65 years and older hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

METHODS

Study population consisted of 3863 adults hospitalized with AMI at 11 medical centers in central Massachusetts on a biennial basis between 2001 and 2011. The presence of 11 chronic conditions (five cardiac and six non-cardiac) was based on the review of hospital medical records.

RESULTS

Participants' median age was 79 years, 49% were men, and had an average of three chronic conditions (average of cardiac conditions: 2.6 and average of non-cardiac conditions: 1.0). Approximately one in every two patients presented with two or more cardiac related conditions whereas one in every three patients presented with two or more non-cardiac related conditions. The most prevalent chronic conditions in our study population were hypertension, diabetes, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and peripheral vascular disease. Patients across all age groups with a greater number of previously diagnosed cardiac or non-cardiac conditions were at higher risk for developing important clinical complications or dying during hospitalization as compared to those with 0-1 condition.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of multimorbidity among older adults hospitalized with AMI is high and associated with worse outcomes that should be considered in the management of this vulnerable population.

Trends in Length of Hospital Stay and the Impact on Prognosis of Early Discharge After a First Uncomplicated Acute Myocardial Infarction

Few studies have examined recent trends in the length of stay (LOS) among patients hospitalized with a first uncomplicated acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and the impact of early hospital discharge on various short-term outcomes in these low-risk patients. We used data from 1,501 residents hospitalized with a first uncomplicated AMI from all central Massachusetts medical centers on a biennial basis between 2001 and 2011. The association between hospital LOS and subsequent hospital readmission or death was examined using logistic regression modeling. The average age of the study population was 63.7 years, 63.0% were men, and 91.4% were non-Hispanic whites. The average hospital LOS declined from 4.1 days in 2001 to 2.9 days in 2011. During the years under study, the average 30-day hospital readmission rate was 11.9%, whereas the 30- and 90-day death rates were 1.5% and 2.9%, respectively. The multivariable adjusted odds ratio of a 30-day hospital readmission (odds ratio [OR] = 0.81, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.52 to 1.41), or 30-day (OR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.29 to 2.98) and 90-day (OR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.36 to 2.20) death rates were not significantly different between patients who were discharged from central Massachusetts medical centers during the first 2 days as compared with those discharged thereafter. In conclusion, the average LOS in patients with a first uncomplicated AMI declined during the years under study, and early discharge from the hospital at day 2 or sooner of these low-risk patients does not appear to be associated with an increased risk of adverse events post discharge compared with those discharged at a later time.

Recent Trends in Oral Anticoagulant Use and Post-Discharge Complications Among Atrial Fibrillation Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common complication of acute myocardial infarction (AMI).The CHA2DS2VAScand CHADS2risk scoresare used to identifypatients with AF at risk for strokeand to guide oral anticoagulants (OAC) use, including patients with AMI. However, the epidemiology of AF, further stratifiedaccording to patients' risk of stroke, has not been wellcharacterized among those hospitalized for AMI.

METHODS

We examined trends in the frequency of AF, rates of discharge OAC use, and post-discharge outcomes among 6,627 residents of the Worcester, Massachusetts area who survived hospitalization for AMI at 11 medical centers between 1997 and 2011.

RESULTS

A total of 1,050AMI patients had AF (16%) andthe majority (91%)had a CHA2DS2VAScscore >2.AF rates were highest among patients in the highest stroke risk group.In comparison to patients without AF, patients with AMI and AF in the highest stroke risk category had higher rates of post-discharge complications, including higher 30-day re-hospitalization [27 % vs. 17 %], 30-day post-discharge death [10 % vs. 5%], and 1-year post-discharge death [46 % vs. 18 %] (p < 0.001 for all). Notably, fewerthan half of guideline-eligible AF patientsreceived an OACprescription at discharge. Usage rates for other evidence-based therapiessuch as statins and beta-blockers,lagged in comparison to AMI patients free from AF.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the need to enhance efforts towards stroke prevention among AMI survivors with AF.

Ten-Year (2001-2011) Trends in the Incidence Rates and Short-Term Outcomes of Early Versus Late Onset Cardiogenic Shock After Hospitalization for Acute Myocardial Infarction

Background

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a serious complication of acute myocardial infarction, and the time of onset of CS has a potential role in influencing its prognosis. Limited contemporary data exist on this complication, however, especially from a population‐based perspective. Our study objectives were to describe decade‐long trends in the incidence, in‐hospital mortality, and factors associated with the development of CS in 3 temporal contexts: (1) before hospital arrival for acute myocardial infarction (prehospital CS); (2) within 24 hours of hospitalization (early CS); and (3) ≥24 hours after hospitalization (late CS).

Methods and Results

The study population consisted of 5782 patients with an acute myocardial infarction who were admitted to all 11 hospitals in central Massachusetts on a biennial basis between 2001 and 2011. The overall proportion of patients who developed CS was 5.2%. The proportion of patients with prehospital CS (1.6%) and late CS (1.5%) remained stable over time, whereas the proportion of patients with early CS declined from 2.2% in 2001–2003 to 1.2% in 2009–2011. In‐hospital mortality for prehospital CS increased from 38.9% in 2001–2003 to 53.6% in 2009–2011, whereas in‐hospital mortality for early and late CS decreased over time (35.9% and 64.7% in 2001–2003 to 15.8% and 39.1% in 2009–2011, respectively).

Conclusions

Development of prehospital and in‐hospital CS was associated with poor short‐term survival and the in‐hospital death rates among those with prehospital CS increased over time. Interventions focused on preventing or treating prehospital and late CS are needed to improve in‐hospital survival after acute myocardial infarction.

Decade-Long Trends (2001 to 2011) in the Use of Evidence-Based Medical Therapies at the Time of Hospital Discharge for Patients Surviving Acute Myocardial Infarction

Optimization of medical therapy during discharge planning is vital for improving patient outcomes after hospitalization for acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, limited information is available about recent trends in the prescribing of evidence-based medical therapies in these patients, especially from a population-based perspective. We describe decade-long trends in the discharge prescribing of aspirin, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, β blockers, and statins in hospital survivors of AMI. The study population consisted of 5,253 patients who were discharged from all 11 hospitals in central Massachusetts after AMI in 6 biennial periods from 2001 to 2011. Combination medical therapy (CMT) was defined as the prescription of all 4 cardiac medications at hospital discharge. The average age of this patient population was 69.2 years and 57.7% were men. Significant increases were observed in the use of CMT, from 25.6% in 2001 to 48.7% in 2011, with increases noted for each of the individual cardiac medications examined. Subgroup analysis also showed improvement in discharge prescriptions for P2Y12 inhibitors in patients who underwent a percutaneous coronary intervention. Presence of a do-not-resuscitate order, before co-morbidities, hospitalization for non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, admission to a nonteaching hospital, and failure to undergo cardiac catheterization or a percutaneous coronary intervention were associated with underuse of CMT. In conclusion, our study demonstrates encouraging trends in the prescribing of evidence-based medications at hospital discharge for AMI. However, certain patient subgroups continue to be at risk for underuse of CMT, suggesting the need for strategies to enhance compliance with current practice guidelines.

Pediatric Disaster Triage: Multiple Simulation Curriculum Improves Prehospital Care Providers' Assessment Skills

OBJECTIVE

Paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) triage pediatric disaster victims infrequently. The objective of this study was to measure the effect of a multiple-patient, multiple-simulation curriculum on accuracy of pediatric disaster triage (PDT).

METHODS

Paramedics, paramedic students, and EMTs from three sites were enrolled. Triage accuracy was measured three times (Time 0, Time 1 [two weeks later], and Time 2 [6 months later]) during a disaster simulation, in which high and low fidelity manikins and actors portrayed 10 victims. Accuracy was determined by participant triage decision concordance with predetermined expected triage level (RED [Immediate], YELLOW [Delayed], GREEN [Ambulatory], BLACK [Deceased]) for each victim. Between Time 0 and Time 1, participants completed an interactive online module, and after each simulation there was an individual debriefing. Associations between participant level of training, years of experience, and enrollment site were determined, as were instances of the most dangerous mistriage, when RED and YELLOW victims were triaged BLACK.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 331 participants, and the analysis included 261 (78.9%) participants who completed the study, 123 from the Connecticut site, 83 from Rhode Island, and 55 from Massachusetts. Triage accuracy improved significantly from Time 0 to Time 1, after the educational interventions (first simulation with debriefing, and an interactive online module), with a median 10% overall improvement (p < 0.001). Subgroup analyses showed between Time 0 and Time 1, paramedics and paramedic students improved more than EMTs (p = 0.002). Analysis of triage accuracy showed greatest improvement in overall accuracy for YELLOW triage patients (Time 0 50% accurate, Time1 100%), followed by RED patients (Time 0 80%, Time 1 100%). There was no significant difference in accuracy between Time 1 and Time 2 (p = 0.073).

CONCLUSION

This study shows that the multiple-victim, multiple-simulation curriculum yields a durable 10% improvement in simulated triage accuracy. Future iterations of the curriculum can target greater improvements in EMT triage accuracy.

Decade-long trends in the timeliness of receipt of a primary percutaneous coronary intervention

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to examine decade-long trends (2001–2011) in, and factors associated with, door-to-balloon time within 90 minutes of hospital presentation among patients hospitalized with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who received a primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

Residents of central Massachusetts hospitalized with STEMI who received a primary PCI at two major PCI-capable medical centers in central Massachusetts on a biennial basis between 2001 and 2011 comprised the study population (n=629). Multivariable regression analyses were used to examine factors associated with failing to receive a primary PCI within 90 minutes after emergency department (ED) arrival.

Results

The average age of this patient population was 61.9 years; 30.5% were women, and 91.7% were White. During the years under study, 50.9% of patients received a primary PCI within 90 minutes of ED arrival; this proportion increased from 2001/2003 (17.2%) to 2009/2011 (70.5%) (P<0.001). Having previously undergone coronary artery bypass graft surgery, arriving at the ED by car/walk-in and during off-hours were significantly associated with a higher risk of failing to receive a primary PCI within 90 minutes of ED arrival.

Conclusion

The likelihood of receiving a timely primary PCI in residents of central Massachusetts hospitalized with STEMI at the major teaching/community medical centers increased dramatically during the years under study. Several groups were identified for purposes of heightened surveillance and intervention efforts to reduce the likelihood of failing to receive a timely primary PCI among patients acutely diagnosed with STEMI.

Identification and Characteristics of Low-Risk Survivors of an Acute Myocardial Infarction

There are limited contemporary data available describing the characteristics of patients who neither died nor were readmitted to the hospital during the first year after hospital discharge for an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in comparison with those who died and/or were readmitted to the hospital during this high-risk period. Residents of the Worcester, Massachusetts, metropolitan area discharged after an AMI from 3 central Massachusetts hospitals on a biennial basis from 2001 to 2011 comprised the study population. The average age of this population (n = 4,268) was 69 years, 62% were men, and 92% were white. From 2001 to 2011, 43.5% of patients were classified as low-risk survivors of an AMI, 12.3% died, and 44.2% did not die but had at least 1 rehospitalization during the subsequent year. The proportion of low-risk survivors increased from 42.6% to 46.4%, whereas the proportion of those who died within a year after hospital discharge decreased from 14.3% to 10.5%, respectively, during the years under study. After adjusting for several patient characteristics, younger (≤65 years) persons, men, those who were married, those who did not present with multimorbidities, and patients who did not develop in-hospital clinical complications were more likely to be classified as a low-risk AMI survivor. Identifying low-risk survivors of an AMI may help health care providers to focus more intensive efforts and interventions on those at higher risk for dying and/or being readmitted to the hospital during the postdischarge transition period after an AMI.

Decade Long Trends (2001-2011) in Duration of Pre-Hospital Delay Among Elderly Patients Hospitalized for an Acute Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Early intervention with medical and/or coronary revascularization treatment approaches remains the cornerstone of the management of patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, several patient groups, especially the elderly, are known to delay seeking prompt medical care after onset of AMI-associated symptoms. Current trends, and factors associated with prolonged prehospital delay among elderly patients hospitalized with AMI, are incompletely understood.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data from a population-based study of patients hospitalized at all 11 medical centers in central Massachusetts with a confirmed AMI on a biennial basis between 2001 and 2011 were analyzed. Information about duration of prehospital delay after onset of acute coronary symptoms was abstracted from hospital medical records. In patients 65 years and older, the overall median duration of prehospital delay was 2.0 hours, with corresponding median delays of 2.0, 2.1, and 2.0 hours in those aged 65 to 74 years, 75 to 84 years, and in patients 85 years and older, respectively. There were no significant changes over time in median delay times in each of the age strata examined in both crude and multivariable adjusted analyses. A limited number of patient characteristics were associated with prolonged delay in this patient population.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this community-wide study demonstrate that delay in seeking prompt medical care continues to be a significant problem among elderly patients hospitalized with AMI. The lack of improvement in the timeliness of patients' care-seeking behavior during the years under study remains of considerable clinical and public health concern.

Relation of Atrial Fibrillation in Acute Myocardial Infarction to In-Hospital Complications and Early Hospital Readmission

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common complication of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and contributes to high rates of in-hospital adverse events. However, there are few contemporary studies examining rates of AF in the contemporary era of AMI or the impact of new-onset AF on key in-hospital and postdischarge outcomes. We examined trends in AF in 6,384 residents of Worcester, Massachusetts, who were hospitalized with confirmed AMI during 7 biennial periods between 1999 and 2011. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to examine associations between occurrence of AF and various in-hospital and postdischarge complications. The overall incidence of AF complicating AMI was 10.8%. Rates of new-onset AF increased from 1999 to 2003 (9.8% to 13.2%), and decreased thereafter. In multivariable adjusted models, patients developing new-onset AF after AMI were at a higher risk for in-hospital stroke (odds ratio [OR] 2.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.6 to 4.1), heart failure (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.7 to 2.4), cardiogenic shock (OR 3.7, 95% CI 2.8 to 4.9), and death (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.9 to 3.0) than patients without AF. Development of AF during hospitalization for AMI was associated with higher rates of readmission within 30 days after discharge (21.7% vs 16.0%), but no significant difference was noted in early postdischarge 30-day all-cause mortality rates (8.3% vs 5.1%). In conclusion, new-onset AF after AMI is strongly related to in-hospital complications of AMI and higher short-term readmission rates.

Decade-Long Trends in the Frequency of 90-Day Rehospitalizations After Hospital Discharge for Acute Myocardial Infarction

There are limited data available describing relatively contemporary trends in 90-day rehospitalizations in patients who survive hospitalization after an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in a community setting. We examined decade-long (2001 to 2011) trends in, and factors associated with, 90-day rehospitalizations in patients discharged from 3 central Massachusetts (MA) hospitals after AMI. Residents of the Worcester, MA, metropolitan area discharged after AMI from 3 central MA hospitals on a biennial basis from 2001 to 2011 comprised the study population (n = 4,810). The average age of this population was 69 years, 42% were women, and 92% were white. From 2001 to 2011, 30.0% of patients were rehospitalized within 90 days after hospital discharge, and 38% of 90-day rehospitalizations occurred after the first month after hospital discharge. Crude 90-day rehospitalization rates decreased from 31.5% in 2001/2003 to 27.3% in 2009/2011. After adjusting for several sociodemographic characteristics, co-morbidities, and in-hospital factors, there was a reduced risk of being rehospitalized within 90 days after hospital discharge in 2009/2011 compared with 2001/2003 (risk ratio = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.77 to 0.98); this trend was slightly attenuated (risk ratio = 0.90, 95% CI = 0.79 to 1.02) after further adjustment for hospital treatment practices. Female sex, having several previously diagnosed co-morbidities, an increased hospital stay, and the in-hospital development of atrial fibrillation, cardiogenic shock, and heart failure were significantly associated with an increased risk of being rehospitalized. In conclusion, the likelihood of subsequent 90-day rehospitalizations remained frequent, and we did not observe a significant decrease in these rates during the years under study.

Decade-Long Trends (2001-2011) in the Incidence and Hospital Death Rates Associated with the In-Hospital Development of Cardiogenic Shock after Acute Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Limited information is available about relatively contemporary trends in the incidence and hospital case-fatality rates of cardiogenic shock in patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction. The purpose of this population-based study was to describe decade long trends (2001-2011) in the incidence and hospital case-fatality rates for patients who developed cardiogenic shock during hospitalization for an acute myocardial infarction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The study population consisted of 5686 residents of central Massachusetts hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction at all 11 medical centers in the Worcester, MA, metropolitan area during 6 biennial periods between 2001 and 2011, who did not have cardiogenic shock at the time of hospital presentation. On average, 3.7% of these patients developed cardiogenic shock during their acute hospitalization with nonsignificant and inconsistent trends noted over time in both crude (3.7% in 2001/2003; 4.5% in 2005/2007; 2.7% in 2009/2011; P=0.19) and multivariable adjusted analyses. The overall in-hospital case-fatality rate for patients who developed cardiogenic shock was 41.4%. The crude and multivariable adjusted odds of dying after cardiogenic shock declined during the most recent study years (47.1% dying in 2001/2003, 42.0% dying in 2005/2007, and 28.6% dying in 2009/2011). Increases in the use of evidence-based cardiac medications, and interventional procedures paralleled the increasing hospital survival trends.

CONCLUSIONS

We found suggestions of a decline in the death, but not incidence, rates of cardiogenic shock over time. These encouraging trends in hospital survival are likely because of advances in the early recognition and aggressive management of patients who develop cardiogenic shock.

Magnitude, treatment, and impact of diabetes mellitus in patients hospitalized with non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction: A community-based study

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

To examine differences in the characteristics, treatment practices and in-hospital outcomes of patients with and without previously diagnosed diabetes hospitalized for non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction.

KEY METHODS

The study cohort consisted of 3916 patients diagnosed with non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction at all 11 central MA medical centres between 1999 and 2009, of whom 1475 (38%) had been previously diagnosed with diabetes.

MAIN RESULTS

Diabetic patients were more likely to have received treatment with effective cardiac medications, and to have undergone coronary bypass surgery, but were less likely to have received a percutaneous coronary intervention, than non-diabetic patients. Patients with a history of diabetes were more likely to have developed cardiogenic shock, heart failure and died during their index hospitalization than non-diabetic patients.

MAIN CONCLUSION

Diabetic patients presenting with non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction remain at high risk of developing significant clinical complications during hospitalization.

Magnitude of and Prognostic Factors Associated With 1-Year Mortality After Hospital Discharge for Acute Decompensated Heart Failure Based on Ejection Fraction Findings

BACKGROUND

Limited data exist about the magnitude of and the factors associated with prognosis within 1 year for patients discharged from the hospital after acute decompensated heart failure. Data are particularly limited from the more generalizable perspective of a population-based investigation and should be further stratified according to currently recommended ejection fraction (EF) findings.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The hospital medical records of residents of the Worcester, Massachusetts, metropolitan area who were discharged after acute decompensated heart failure from all 11 medical centers in central Massachusetts during 1995, 2000, 2002, 2004, and 2006 were reviewed. The average age of the 4025 study patients was 75 years, 93% were white, and 44% were men. Of these, 35% (n=1414) had reduced EF (≤40%), 13% (n=521) had borderline preserved EF (41-49%), and 52% (n=2090) had preserved EF (≥50%); at 1 year after discharge, death rates were 34%, 30%, and 29%, respectively (P=0.03). Older age, a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, systolic blood pressure findings <150 mm Hg on admission, and hyponatremia were important predictors of 1-year mortality for all study patients, whereas several comorbidities and physiological factors were differentially associated with 1-year death rates in patients with reduced, borderline preserved, and preserved EF.

CONCLUSIONS

This population-based study highlights the need for further contemporary research into the characteristics, treatment practices, natural history, and long-term outcomes of patients with acute decompensated heart failure and varying EF findings and reinforces ongoing discussions about whether different treatment guidelines may be needed for these patients to design more personalized treatment plans.

Decade-Long Trends in 30-Day Rehospitalization Rates After Acute Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

There are limited data available describing relatively contemporary trends in 30-day rehospitalizations among patients who survive hospitalization after an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in the community setting. We examined decade-long (2001-2011) trends in, and factors associated with, 30-day rehospitalizations in patients discharged from 3 central Massachusetts hospitals after AMI.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Residents of the Worcester, MA, metropolitan area discharged after AMI from 3 central Massachusetts hospitals on a biennial basis between 2001 and 2011 comprised the study population (N=4810). Logistic regression analyses were used to examine the association between selected factors and 30-day rehospitalizations. The average age of this population was 69 years, 42% were women, and 92% were white. During the years under study, 18.5% of patients were rehospitalized within 30 days after hospital discharge. Crude 30-day rehospitalization rates decreased from 20.5% in 2001-2003 to 15.8% in 2009-2011. After adjusting for several patient characteristics, there was a reduced odds of being rehospitalized in 2009-2011 (odds ratio 0.74, 95% CI 0.61-0.91) compared with 2001-2003; this trend was slightly attenuated after further adjustment for hospital treatment practices. Female sex, having previously diagnosed heart failure and chronic kidney disease, and the development of in-hospital cardiogenic shock and heart failure were associated with an increased odds of being rehospitalized.

CONCLUSIONS

While the likelihood of subsequent short-term rehospitalizations remained frequent, we observed an encouraging decline during the most recent years under study. Several high-risk groups were identified for purposes of heightened surveillance and intervention efforts to reduce the likelihood of being readmitted.

Thirty-day Hospital Readmissions in Patients with Non-ST-segment Elevation Acute Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Limited data exist about relatively recent trends in the magnitude and characteristics of patients who are rehospitalized shortly after admission for a non-ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). This observational study describes decade-long trends (1999-2009) in the magnitude and characteristics of patients readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of hospitalization for an incident (initial) episode of NSTEMI.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of 2249 residents of the Worcester (Mass) metropolitan area who were hospitalized for an initial NSTEMI in 6 biennial periods between 1999 and 2009 at 3 central Massachusetts medical centers.

RESULTS

The average age of our study population was 72 years, 90% were white, and 46% were women. The proportion of patients who were readmitted to the hospital for any cause within 30 days after discharge for an NSTEMI remained unchanged between 1999 and 2009 (approximately 15%) in both crude and multivariable adjusted analyses. Slight declines were observed for cardiovascular disease-related 30-day readmissions over the 10-year study period. Women, elderly patients, those with multiple chronic comorbidities or a prolonged index hospitalization, and patients who developed heart failure during their index hospitalization were at higher risk for being readmitted within 30 days than respective comparison groups.

CONCLUSION

Thirty-day hospital readmission rates after hospital discharge for a first NSTEMI remained stable between 1999 and 2009. We identified several groups at higher risk for hospital readmission; further surveillance efforts and/or tailored educational and treatment approaches remain needed for these groups.

A 35-Year Perspective (1975 to 2009) into the Long-Term Prognosis and Hospital Management of Patients Discharged from the Hospital After a First Acute Myocardial Infarction

There are limited population-based data available describing trends in the long-term prognosis of patients discharged from the hospital after an initial acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Our objectives were to describe multidecade trends in post-discharge mortality and their association with hospital management practices in patients discharged from all medical centers in Central Massachusetts after a first AMI. Residents of the Worcester, Massachusetts, metropolitan area discharged from all hospitals in Central Massachusetts after a first AMI from 1975 to 2009 comprised the study population (n = 8,728). Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analyses were used to examine the association between year of hospitalization and 1-year post-discharge mortality. The average age of this population was 66 years, and 40% were women. Patients hospitalized in 1999 to 2009, compared with those discharged in 1975 to 1984, were older, more likely to be women, and have multiple previously diagnosed co-morbidities. Hospital use of invasive cardiac interventions and medications increased markedly over time. Unadjusted 1-year mortality rates were 12.9%, 12.5%, and 15.8% for patients discharged during 1975 to 1984, 1986 to 1997, and 1999 to 2009, respectively. After adjusting for several demographic characteristics, clinical factors, and inhospital complications, there were no significant differences in the odds of dying at 1-year post-discharge during the years under study. After further adjustment for hospital treatment practices, the odds of dying at 1 year post-discharge was 2.43 (95% confidence interval = 1.83 to 3.23) times higher in patients hospitalized in 1999 to 2009 than in 1975 to 1984. In conclusion, the increased use of invasive cardiac interventions and pharmacotherapies was associated with enhanced long-term survival in patients hospitalized for a first AMI.

Decade-long trends (1999-2009) in the characteristics, management, and hospital outcomes of patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction with prior diabetes and chronic kidney disease

Background

Despite the increasing magnitude and impact, there are limited data available on the clinical management and in-hospital outcomes of patients who have diabetes mellitus (DM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) at the time of hospitalization for acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The objectives of our population-based observational study in residents of central Massachusetts were to describe decade-long trends (1999–2009) in the characteristics, in-hospital management, and hospital outcomes of AMI patients with and without these comorbidities.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 6,018 persons who were hospitalized for AMI on a biennial basis between 1999 and 2009 at all eleven medical centers in central Massachusetts. Our sample consisted of the following four groups: DM with CKD (n=587), CKD without DM (n=524), DM without CKD (n=1,442), and non-DM/non-CKD (n=3,465).

Results

Diabetic patients with CKD were more likely to have a higher prevalence of previously diagnosed comorbidities, to have developed heart failure acutely, and to have a longer hospital stay compared with non-DM/non-CKD patients. Between 1999 and 2009, there were marked increases in the prescribing of beta-blockers, statins, and aspirin for patients with CKD and DM as compared to those without these comorbidities. In-hospital death rates remained unchanged in patients with DM and CKD, while they declined markedly in patients with CKD without DM (20.2% dying in 1999; 11.3% dying in 2009).

Conclusion

Despite increases in the prescribing of effective cardiac medications, AMI patients with DM and CKD continue to experience high in-hospital death rates.

Changing Trends in, and Characteristics Associated with, Not Undergoing Cardiac Catheterization in Elderly Adults Hospitalized with ST-Segment Elevation Acute Myocardial Infarction

OBJECTIVES

To describe decade- long trends (1999-2009) in the rates of not undergoing cardiac catheterization and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in individuals aged 65 and older presenting with an ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI) and factors associated with not undergoing these procedures.

DESIGN

Observational population-based study.

SETTING

Worcester, Massachusetts, metropolitan area.

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals aged 65 and older hospitalized for an STEMI in six biennial periods between 1999 and 2009 at 11 central Massachusetts medical centers (N=960).

MEASUREMENTS

Analyses were conducted to examine the characteristics of people who did not undergo cardiac catheterization overall and stratified into two age strata (65-74, ≥75).

RESULTS

Between 1999 and 2009, dramatic declines (from 59.4% to 7.5%) were observed in the proportion of older adults who did not undergo cardiac catheterization at all greater Worcester hospitals. These declines were observed in individuals aged 65 to 74 (58.4-6.7%) and in those aged 75 and older (69.4-13.5%). The proportion of individuals not undergoing PCI after undergoing cardiac catheterization decreased from 36.6% in 1999 to 6.5% in 2009. Women, individuals with a prior MI, those with do-not-resuscitate orders, and those with various comorbidities were less likely to have undergone these procedures than comparison groups.

CONCLUSION

Older adults who develop an STEMI are increasingly likely to undergo cardiac catheterization and PCI, but several high-risk groups remain less likely to undergo these procedures.

Abstract 107: Decade Long Trends (1999 - 2009) in Pre-hospital Delay and Short-term Mortality in Patients Hospitalized for Acute Myocardial Infarction - The Worcester Heart Attack Study

Objective: Patients experiencing signs and symptoms of an acute myocardial infarction (AMI) require prompt evaluation and treatment. There are little contemporary data, however, available on how the extent of delay between the onset of acute coronary symptoms and hospital presentation may impact short-term mortality. The purpose of this population-based study was to examine the relationship between extent of pre-hospital delay with hospital case-fatality rates (HCFRs) and 30-day post-admission mortality rates (PAMRs) among patients hospitalized with validated AMI in all central Massachusetts medical centers, and trends over time therein.

Methods: We examined the medical records of residents of the Worcester, MA, metropolitan area hospitalized with a confirmed AMI at all 11 central MA medical centers on a biennial basis between 1999 and 2009 (n = 6,017). Information on patient’s demographic, medical history, clinical characteristics, and time of acute symptom onset and hospital arrival was abstracted.

Results: Hospital medical record data on pre-hospital delay were available for 2,913 (48%) subjects of whom their mean age was 68 years, 38% were female, and 90% were Caucasian. The mean and median pre-hospital delay times were 4.0 hours and 2.0 hours, respectively, with little change noted in these times between 1999 and 2009. Patients who reported pre-hospital delay times greater than two hours were more likely to be older, female, and have a history of heart failure or diabetes mellitus as compared with patients who delayed seeking medical care by less than 2 hours. The overall HCFR was 6.6% and 30-day PAMR was 9.4%. The average HCFRs and 30-day PAMRs varied slightly between those with delay times of less than 2 hours (6.5%, 9.2%), 2 to 4 hours (6.3%, 8.6%), and greater than 4 hours (7.0%, 10.6%). No statistically significant changes in HCFRs and 30-day PAMRs were observed as pre-hospital delay times increased. Analyses of our principal study outcomes according to type of AMI (e.g., STEMI and NSTEMI) are ongoing and will be presented subsequently.

Conclusions: This population-based study of residents of central MA hospitalized with AMI in all metropolitan Worcester medical centers showed little change in average and median pre-hospital delays between 1999 and 2009. Both the HCFRs and 30-day PAMRs were not significantly increased with greater durations of pre-hospital delay possibly due to potential confounders such as symptom severity. Our preliminary results suggest the need to further investigate trends in pre-hospital delay and short-term mortality, including patients who die in the community before receiving acute medical care.

Elevated serum glucose levels and survival after acute heart failure: a population-based perspective

BACKGROUND

Limited data are available about the characteristics, treatment and survival in patients without diabetes mellitus (DM), previously diagnosed DM and patients with hyperglycaemia who present with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). Our objectives were to examine differences in these endpoints in patients hospitalized with ADHF.

METHODS

Patients hospitalized with ADHF during 1995, 2000, 2002 and 2004 comprised the study population.

RESULTS

A total of 5428 non-diabetic patients were hospitalized with ADHF, 3807 with diagnosed DM and 513 with admission hyperglycaemia. Patients with admission hyperglycaemia experienced the highest in-hospital death rates (9.9%) compared to those with diagnosed DM (6.5%) and non-diabetics (7.5%). Patients with diagnosed DM had the greatest risk of dying after hospital discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with elevated blood glucose levels at hospital admission are more likely to die acutely. After resolution of the acute illness, patients with previously diagnosed DM need careful monitoring and enhanced treatment.

Automatically Detecting Acute Myocardial Infarction Events from EHR Text: A Preliminary Study

The Worcester Heart Attack Study (WHAS) is a population-based surveillance project examining trends in the incidence, in-hospital, and long-term survival rates of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) among residents of central Massachusetts. It provides insights into various aspects of AMI. Much of the data has been assessed manually. We are developing supervised machine learning approaches to automate this process. Since the existing WHAS data cannot be used directly for an automated system, we first annotated the AMI information in electronic health records (EHR). With strict inter-annotator agreement over 0.74 and un-strict agreement over 0.9 of Cohen's κ, we annotated 105 EHR discharge summaries (135k tokens). Subsequently, we applied the state-of-the-art supervised machine-learning model, Conditional Random Fields (CRFs) for AMI detection. We explored different approaches to overcome the data sparseness challenge and our results showed that cluster-based word features achieved the highest performance.

Long-term survival for patients with acute decompensated heart failure according to ejection fraction findings

Limited data exist about the long-term prognosis of patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) further stratified according to ejection fraction (EF) findings. The primary objective of this population-based observational study was to characterize and compare trends in long-term prognosis after an episode of ADHF across 3 EF strata. Hospital medical records were reviewed for 3,604 residents of the Worcester, Massachusetts, metropolitan area who were discharged after ADHF from all 11 medical centers in central Massachusetts during 1995, 2000, 2002, and 2004 and had EF measurements during their index hospitalizations. The average age of this population was 75 years, most were white, and 44% were men. Approximately 49% of the population had heart failure (HF) with preserved EF (EF ≥ 50%), 37% had HF with reduced EF (EF ≤ 40%), and 14% had HF with borderline EF (EF 41% to 49%). Patients with HF with preserved EF experienced higher postdischarge survival rates than patients with either HF with reduced EF or HF with borderline EF at 1, 2, and 5 years after discharge from all central Massachusetts medical centers. Although prognosis at 1 year after hospital discharge improved for all patient groups during the years under study, especially for those with HF with reduced EF and HF with preserved EF, these encouraging trends decreased with increasing duration of follow-up. In conclusion, although improvements in 1-year postdischarge survival were observed for patients in each of the 3 EF groups examined to varying degrees, the postdischarge prognosis of all patients with ADHF remains guarded.

Characteristics, treatment practices, and in-hospital outcomes of older adults hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction

OBJECTIVES

To examine overall and decade-long trends (1999-2009), characteristics, treatment practices, and hospital outcomes in individuals aged 65 and older hospitalized for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and to describe how these factors varied in the youngest, middle, and oldest-old individuals.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Population-based Worcester Heart Attack Study.

MEASUREMENTS

Analyses were conducted to examine the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, cardiac treatments, and hospital outcomes of older adults in three age strata (65-74, 75-84, ≥85).

PARTICIPANTS

The study sample consisted of 3,851 individuals aged 65 and older hospitalized with AMI every other year between 1999 and 2009; 32% were aged 65 to 74, 43% aged 75 to 84, and 25% aged 85 and older.

RESULTS

Advancing age was inversely associated with receipt of evidence-based cardiac therapies. After multivariable adjustment, the odds of dying during hospitalization was 1.46 times as high in participants aged 75 to 84 and 1.78 times as high in those aged 85 and older as in those aged 65 to 74. The oldest-old participants had approximately 25% lower odds of a prolonged hospital stay (>3 days) than those aged 65 to 74. Decade-long trends in the principal study outcomes were also examined. Although the oldest-old participants hospitalized for AMI were at the greatest risk of dying, persistent age-related differences were observed in hospital treatment practices. Similar results were observed after excluding participants with a do-not-resuscitate order in their medical records.

CONCLUSION

Although there are persistent disparities in the care and outcomes of older adults hospitalized with AMI, additional studies are needed to delineate the extent to which less-aggressive care reflects individual preferences and appropriate implementation of palliative care approaches.

Decade-long trends in the characteristics, management and hospital outcomes of diabetic patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

PURPOSE

Our objectives were to describe recent trends in the characteristics and in-hospital outcomes in diabetic as compared with non-diabetic patients hospitalized with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of 2537 persons with (n = 684) and without (n = 1853) a history of diabetes who were hospitalized for STEMI between 1997 and 2009 at 11 medical centres in Central Massachusetts.

RESULTS

Diabetic patients were more likely to be older, female and to have a higher prevalence of previously diagnosed comorbidities. Diabetic patients were more likely to have developed important in-hospital complications and to have a longer hospital stay compared with non-diabetic patients. Between 1997 and 2009, there was a marked decline in hospital mortality in diabetic (20.0%-5.6%) and non-diabetic (18.6%-7.5%) patients.

CONCLUSION

Despite reduced hospital mortality in patients hospitalized with STEMI, diabetic patients continue to experience significantly more adverse outcomes than non-diabetics.

The impact of cardiac and noncardiac comorbidities on the short-term outcomes of patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction: a population-based perspective

Objectives

The objectives of our large observational study were to describe the prevalence of cardiac and noncardiac comorbidities in a community-based population of patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) at all medical centers in central Massachusetts, and to examine whether multiple comorbidities were associated with in-hospital death rates and hospital length of stay.

Methods

The study sample consisted of 2,972 patients hospitalized with AMI at all eleven greater Worcester medical centers in central Massachusetts during the three study years of 2003, 2005, and 2007.

Results

The average age of this hospitalized population was 71 years, 55% were men, 93% were Caucasian, and approximately one third had developed an ST segment elevation AMI during the years under study. Hypertension (75%) was the most common cardiac condition identified in patients hospitalized with AMI whereas renal disease (22%) was the most common noncardiac comorbidity diagnosed in this study population. Approximately one in every four hospitalized patients had any four or more of the seven cardiac conditions examined, while one in 13 had any three or more of the five noncardiac conditions studied. Patients with four or more cardiac comorbidities were more than twice as likely to have died during hospitalization and have a prolonged hospital length of stay, compared to those without any cardiac comorbidities. Patients with three or more noncardiac comorbidities had markedly increased odds of dying during hospitalization and having a prolonged hospital stay compared to those with no noncardiac comorbidities previously diagnosed.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight the need for additional contemporary data to improve the short-term outcomes of patients hospitalized with AMI and multiple concurrent medical illnesses.

Incidence, in-hospital case-fatality rates, and management practices in Puerto Ricans hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction

OBJECTIVE

There are extremely limited data on minority populations, especially Hispanics, describing the clinical epidemiology of acute coronary disease. The aim of this study is to examine the incidence rate of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), in-hospital case-fatality rate (CFR), and management practices among residents of greater San Juan (Puerto Rico) who were hospitalized with an initial AMI.

METHODS

Our trained study staff reviewed and independently validated the medical records of patients who had been hospitalized with possible AMI at any of the twelve hospitals located in greater San Juan during calendar year 2007.

RESULTS

The incidence rate (# per 100,000 population) of 1,415 patients hospitalized with AMI increased with advancing age and were significantly higher for older patients for men (198) than they were for women (134). The average age of the study population was 64 years, and women comprised 45% of the study sample. Evidence-based cardiac therapies, e.g., aspirin, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, and statins, were used with 60% of the hospitalized patients, and women were less likely than men to have received these therapies (59% vs. 65%) or to have undergone interventional cardiac procedures (47% vs. 59%) (p<0.05). The in-hospital CFR increased with advancing age and were higher for women (8.6%) than they were for men (6.0%) (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Efforts are needed to reduce the magnitude of AMI, enhance the use of evidence-based cardiac therapies, reduce possible gender disparities, and improve the short-term prognoses of Puerto Rican patients hospitalized with an initial AMI.

Improved survival after heart failure: a community-based perspective

BACKGROUND

Heart failure is a highly prevalent, morbid, and costly disease with a poor long-term prognosis. Evidence-based therapies utilized over the past 2 decades hold the promise of improved outcomes, yet few contemporary studies have examined survival trends in patients with acute heart failure. The primary objective of this population-based study was to describe trends in short- and long-term survival in patients hospitalized with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). A secondary objective was to examine patient characteristics associated with decreased long-term survival.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We reviewed the medical records of 9748 patients hospitalized with ADHF at all 11 medical centers in central Massachusetts during 1995, 2000, 2002, and 2004. Patients hospitalized with ADHF were more likely to be elderly and to have been diagnosed with multiple comorbidities in 2004 compared with 1995. Over this period, survival was significantly improved in-hospital, and at 1, 2, and 5 years postdischarge. Five-year survival rates increased from 20% in 1995 to 29% in 2004. Although survival improved substantially over time, older patients and patients with chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, anemia, low body mass index, and low blood pressures had consistently lower postdischarge survival rates than patients without these comorbidities.

CONCLUSION

Between 1995 and 2004, patients hospitalized with ADHF have become older and increasingly comorbid. Although there has been a significant improvement in survival among these patients, their long-term prognosis remains poor, as fewer than 1 in 3 patients hospitalized with ADHF in 2004 survived more than 5 years.

Gender disparities in Puerto Ricans hospitalized with an initial acute myocardial infarction: A population-based perspective

OBJECTIVE

The published literature suggests differences in presenting symptoms for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), management, and outcomes according to gender and age. However, limited information exists on this topic among Hispanics.

METHODS

In Puerto Rican patients hospitalized with an initial AMI, we examined differences in presenting symptoms, effective cardiac therapies, and in-hospital mortality as a function of gender and age groups. We reviewed the medical records of patients hospitalized with a validated AMI in 12 greater San Juan, Puerto Rico hospitals during 2007.

RESULTS

The average age of 1,415 patients hospitalized with a first AMI was 66 years and 45 % were women. Chest pain (81%) was the most prevalent acute presenting symptom with significant differences in its frequency between women (77%) and men (85%)(p<0.001). Right arm pain, shortness-of-breath/dyspnea, and sweating/ diaphoresis were most prevalent in patients 55-64 years old (45%), compared with patients 75 years and older (29%)(p<0.005). Relative to men and patients < 55 years old, coronary angiography/thrombolytic therapy and percutaneous coronary interventions were used less frequently in women and older patients (>75 years old). During hospitalization for AMI the in-hospital death rate was higher in women (8.6%) than men (6.0%), and increased with advancing age (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest significant gender and age differences in presenting symptoms, management, and early mortality in Puerto Ricans hospitalized with an initial AMI. It remains of considerable importance that health care personnel become aware of these gender and age differences to improve the management and outcomes of these patients.

Recent trends in post-discharge mortality among patients with an initial acute myocardial infarction

The objectives of this study were to describe contemporary postdischarge death rates of patients hospitalized at all Worcester, Massachusetts, hospitals after initial acute myocardial infarctions (AMIs) and to examine factors associated with a poor prognosis. The medical records of patients discharged from 11 central Massachusetts medical centers after initial AMIs during 2001, 2003, 2005, and 2007 were reviewed, identifying 2,452 patients. This population was composed of predominantly older patients, men (58%), and whites. Overall, the 3-month, 1-year, and 2-year all-cause death rates were 8.9%, 16.4%, and 23.4%, respectively. Over time, reductions in postdischarge mortality were observed in crude as well as multivariate-adjusted analyses. In 2001, the 3-month, 1-year, and 2-year all-cause death rates were 11.1%, 17.1%, and 25.6%, respectively, compared to rates of 7.9%, 12.7%, and 18.6% in patients discharged in 2007. Older age, male gender, hospitalization for a non-ST-segment elevation AMI, renal dysfunction, and preexisting heart failure were associated with an increased risk for dying after hospital discharge. These results suggest that the postdischarge prognosis of patients with initial AMIs has improved, likely reflecting enhanced in-hospital and postdischarge management practices. In conclusion, patients with initial AMIs can also be identified who are at increased risk for dying after hospital discharge, in whom increased surveillance and targeted treatment approaches can be directed.

Abstract 3120: Clinical Profile, In-hospital and Long-term Mortality Rates of Hispanic Puerto Ricans Hospitalized with Acute Stroke

Background: Stroke mortality varies considerably according to race/ethnicity and place of residence. However, limited information is available about contemporary in-hospital death rates and one-year mortality in Hispanics hospitalized with acute stroke. We sought to examine the clinical characteristics, in-hospital, and one-year mortality death rates of Puerto Rican Hispanic patients hospitalized with an acute stroke.

Design/Methods: Observational study using data from the Puerto Rico Stroke Registry. The study population consisted of patients hospitalized with an initial (first) acute stroke in 11 medical centers of Puerto Rico in 2007. In-hospital mortality was calculated as the percentage of patients hospitalized with an initial acute stroke who died during the index hospitalization, one-year all-cause mortality was determined through the review of death records in the Puerto Rico Department of Health Vital Statistics Records.

Results: Of the 1528 consecutive patients hospitalized with an acute stroke, 1299 (85%) had an ischemic stroke. The mean age was 70 (+/- 28) years, and 53% were women. Patients hospitalized with an acute stroke had a considerable prevalence of comorbidities: 86% had hypertension, 52% had diabetes, 26% had hyperlipidemia, and 9% were current smokers. The overall in-hospital mortality rate was 11% and the one-year all-cause mortality rate was 26%. In comparison with men, women were older (71 years vs. 68 years), more likely to be hypertensive (89% vs. 83%, p=0.001), had similar odds of dying during hospitalization (OR=1.1 [95%CI= 0.8-1.6]), and more likely to die one year after hospital discharge (OR=1.3 [95%CI= 1.1-1.5]).

Discussion: Our findings indicate a high in-hospital and one year mortality rates after an initial acute stroke in Hispanic Puerto Ricans. Given the high, short and long-term, death rates associated with acute stroke, monitoring the clinical characteristics, death rates and factors associated with an increased risk of dying remains warranted.

Thirty-year (1975 to 2005) trends in the incidence rates, clinical features, treatment practices, and short-term outcomes of patients <55 years of age hospitalized with an initial acute myocardial infarction

Sparse data are available describing recent trends in the magnitude, clinical features, treatment practices, and outcomes of comparatively young adults hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The objectives of this population-based study were to describe 3 decade-long trends (1975 to 2005) in these end points in adults <55 years old who were hospitalized with an initial AMI. The study population consisted of 1,703 residents of the Worcester (Massachusetts) metropolitan area 25 to 54 years of age who were hospitalized with initial AMIs at all central Massachusetts medical centers during 15 annual periods from 1975 through 2005. Overall hospital incidence rate (per 100,000 residents) of initial AMI in our study population was 66 (95% confidence interval 63 to 69) and incidence rates of AMI decreased inconsistently over time. Patients hospitalized during the most recent study years were more likely to have important cardiovascular risk factors and co-morbidities present but were less likely to have developed heart failure during their index hospitalization. In-hospital and 30-day death rates decreased by approximately 50% (p = 0.04) during the years under study concomitant with increasing use of effective cardiac therapies. In conclusion, the results of this community-wide investigation provide insights into the magnitude, changing characteristics, and short-term outcomes of comparatively young patients hospitalized with a first AMI. Decreasing odds of developing or dying from an initial AMI during the 30 years under study likely reflect increased primary and secondary prevention and treatment efforts.

30-year trends in heart failure in patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction

Despite significant advances in its treatment, acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains an important cause of heart failure (HF). Contemporary data remain lacking, however, describing long-term trends in incidence rates, demographic and clinical profiles, and outcomes of patients who develop HF as a complication of AMI. Our study sample consisted of 11,061 residents of the Worcester (Massachusetts) metropolitan area hospitalized with AMI at all greater Worcester hospitals in 15 annual study periods from 1975 to 2005. Overall, 32.4% of patients (n = 3,582) with AMI developed new-onset HF during their acute hospitalization. Patients who developed HF were generally older, more likely to have pre-existing cardiovascular disease, and were less likely to receive cardiac medications or undergo revascularization procedures during their hospitalization than patients who did not develop HF (p <0.001). Incidence rates of HF remained relatively stable from 1975 to 1991 at 26% but decreased thereafter. Decreases were also noted in hospital and 30-day death rates in patients with acute HF (p <0.001). However, patients who developed new-onset HF remained at significantly higher risk for dying during their hospitalization (21.6%) than patients who did not develop this complication (8.3%, p <0.001). Our large community-based study of patients hospitalized with AMI demonstrates that incidence rates of and mortality attributable to HF have decreased over the previous 3 decades. In conclusion, HF remains a common and frequently fatal complication of AMI to which increased surveillance and treatment efforts should be directed.

Declining length of stay for patients hospitalized with AMI: impact on mortality and readmissions

BACKGROUND

Length of hospital stay after acute myocardial infarction decreased significantly in the 1980s and 1990s. Whether length of stay has continued to decrease during the 2000s, and the impact of decreasing length of stay on rehospitalization and mortality, is unclear. We describe decade-long (1995-2005) trends in length of stay after acute myocardial infarction, and examine whether declining length of stay has impacted early rehospitalization and postdischarge mortality in a population-based sample of hospitalized patients.

METHODS

The study sample consisted of 4184 patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction in a central New England metropolitan area during 6 annual periods (1995, 1997, 1999, 2001, 2003, 2005).

RESULTS

The average age of the study sample was 71 years, and 54% were men. The average length of stay decreased by nearly one third over the 10-year study period, from 7.2 days in 1995 to 5.0 days in 2005 (P <.001). Younger patients (<65 years), men, and patients with an uncomplicated hospital stay had significantly shorter lengths of stay than respective comparison groups. Lengths of stay shorter than the median were not associated with significantly higher odds of hospital readmission at 7 or 30 days postdischarge, or with mortality in the year after discharge. In contrast, longer lengths of stay were associated with significantly higher odds of short-term mortality. These findings did not vary by year under study.

CONCLUSIONS

Length of stay in patients hospitalized for acute myocardial infarction decreased significantly between 1995 and 2005. Declining length of stay is not associated with an increased risk for early readmission or all-cause mortality.

Age and sex differences and 20-year trends (1986 to 2005) in prehospital delay in patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

The prompt administration of coronary reperfusion therapy for patients with an evolving acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is crucial in reducing mortality and the risk of serious clinical complications in these patients. However, long-term trends in extent of prehospital delay and factors affecting patient's care-seeking behavior remain relatively unexplored, especially in men and women of different ages. The objectives of this study were to examine the overall magnitude and 20-year trends (1986 to 2005) in duration of prehospital delay in middle-aged and elderly men and women hospitalized with AMI.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The study sample consisted of 5967 residents of the Worcester, Mass, metropolitan area hospitalized at all greater Worcester medical centers for AMI between 1986 and 2005 who had information available about duration of prehospital delay. Compared with men <65 years, patients in other age-sex strata exhibited longer prehospital delays over the 20-year period under study. The multivariable-adjusted medians of prehospital delay were 1.96, 2.07, and 2.57 hours for men <65 years, men 65 to 74 years, and men ≥75 years and 2.08, 2.33, and 2.27 hours for women <65 years, women 65 to 74 years, and women ≥75 years, respectively. These age and sex differences have narrowed over time, which has been largely explained by changes in patient's comorbidity profile and AMI-associated characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that duration of prehospital delay in persons with symptoms of AMI has remained essentially unchanged during the 20-year period under study and elderly individuals are more likely to delay seeking timely medical care than younger persons.

Symptom presentation in patients hospitalized with acute heart failure

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this study were to examine the type and frequency of symptoms in patients hospitalized with acute heart failure (HF) as well as the relationship between symptom patterns and patient characteristics, treatment practices, and hospital outcomes in patients hospitalized with decompensated HF.

METHODS

The study sample consisted of 4537 residents of the Worcester, MA metropolitan area hospitalized for decompensated HF at 11 greater Worcester medical centers in 1995 and 2000.

RESULTS

The average age of the study sample was 76 years; the majority (57%) were women, and three-quarters of our patient population had been previously diagnosed with HF. Dyspnea (93%) was the most frequent complaint reported by patients followed by the presence of peripheral edema (70%), cough (51%), orthopnea (37%), and chest pain/discomfort (30%). Patients reporting few cardiac symptoms were less likely to be treated with effective cardiac therapies during hospitalization than patients with multiple cardiac signs and symptoms and experienced higher hospital (9.7% vs. 7.7%) as well as 30-day (17.1% vs. 10.2%) death rates (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study in residents of a large New England community suggest that patients with fewer reported symptoms of decompensated HF were less likely to receive effective cardiac treatments and had worse short-term outcomes. Reasons for these differences in treatment practices and short-term outcomes need to be elucidated and attention directed to these high-risk patients.

Management and outcomes of renal disease and acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Contemporary trends in the management and outcomes of chronic kidney disease patients who develop an acute myocardial infarction have not been adequately described, particularly from the more generalizable perspective of a population-based investigation.

METHODS

The study population consisted of 6219 residents of the Worcester, Massachusetts, metropolitan area who were hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction in 6 annual periods between 1995 and 2005. Patients were categorized as having preserved kidney function (n=3154), mild to moderate chronic kidney disease (n=2313), or severe chronic kidney disease (n=752) at the time of hospital admission.

RESULTS

Patients with chronic kidney disease were more likely to be older, to have a greater prevalence of comorbidities, and to experience significant in-hospital complications or die during hospitalization in comparison with patients with preserved kidney function. Although patients with chronic kidney disease were less likely to receive effective cardiac medications or undergo coronary interventional procedures than patients without kidney disease, we observed a marked increase in the use of effective cardiac medications and coronary interventional procedures in patients with chronic kidney disease during the period under study. In-hospital death rates declined over time among patients with chronic kidney disease, whereas these death rates remained unchanged among persons with normal kidney function.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study in residents of a large New England metropolitan area provide insights into changing trends in the treatment and impact of chronic kidney disease in patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction.

Contemporary trends in evidence-based treatment for acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Guidelines for the management of patients with acute myocardial infarction recommend the routine use of 4 effective cardiac medications: angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, aspirin, beta-blockers, and lipid-lowering agents. Limited data are available, however, about the contemporary and changing use of these therapies, particularly from a population-based perspective. The study describes differences in the use of these medications during hospitalization for acute myocardial infarction according to age, gender, and period of hospitalization.

METHODS

The study population consisted of 6334 women and men treated at 11 hospitals in the Worcester, Mass, metropolitan area for acute myocardial infarction in 6 annual periods between 1995 and 2005.

RESULTS

Increases in the use of all 4 cardiac medications during hospitalization for acute myocardial infarction were noted between 1995 and 2005 for all men and in those of different age strata: less than 65 years (4%-47%); 65 to 74 years (4%-46%); 75 to 84 years (2%-48%); and more than 85 years (0%-23%). Increases in the use of all 4 cardiac medications also were observed in all women and in those of all ages over time (2%-42%); 65 to 74 years (8%-47%); 75 to 84 years (1%-44%); and more than 85 years (1%-44%).

CONCLUSION

The present results suggest marked increases over time in the use of evidence-based therapies in patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction. Educational efforts to augment the use of these effective cardiac therapies, as well as attempts to identify suboptimally treated groups, remain warranted.