The Role of Heparin in Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome and Other Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19

The therapeutic management and short-term consequences of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are well known. However, COVID-19 post-acute sequelae are less known and represent a public health problem worldwide. Patients with COVID-19 who present post-acute sequelae may display immune dysregulation, a procoagulant state, and persistent microvascular endotheliopathy that could trigger microvascular thrombosis. These elements have also been implicated in the physiopathology of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, a frequent sequela in post-COVID-19 patients. These mechanisms, directly associated with post-acute sequelae, might determine the thrombotic consequences of COVID-19 and the need for early anticoagulation therapy. In this context, heparin has several potential benefits, including immunomodulatory, anticoagulant, antiviral, pro-endothelial, and vascular effects, that could be helpful in the treatment of COVID-19 post-acute sequelae. In this article, we review the evidence surrounding the post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 and the potential benefits of the use of heparin, with a special focus on the treatment of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome.

Assessment of long-term cognitive dysfunction in older patients who undergo heart surgery

INTRODUCTION

Older patients are more likely to have cognitive dysfunction, and a great proportion of patients undergone surgical procedures are older adults. Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) has been shown as a consistent complication after major surgical procedures such as heart surgery.

AIM

To determine the presence of long-term POCD in ≥65-year-old patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting and aortic valve replacement, and to establish related risk factors.

METHODS

We prospectively and sequentially included 44 patients with coronary disease and aortic stenosis scheduled for heart surgery. Follow-up of all patients was standardized and a neurocognitive evaluation were performed preoperatively and at 1, 6 and 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Patients experienced a significantly postoperative cognitive dysfunction (33.5%, 63.4% and 38.9% at 1, 6 and 12 months, respectively) from baseline (20.5%). Patient-associated aspects such as age (p<0.01), history of smoking (p<0.01), arterial hypertension (p=0.022), diabetes mellitus (p=0.024), heart failure (p=0.036) and preoperative cognitive dysfunction (p<0.01), and surgery-associated aspects such as EuroSCORE (p<0.01) and operation time (p<0.01) were identified as related risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Older patients who underwent heart surgery had long-term POCD. Both patient- and surgery-related risk factors were established as related risk factors. These findings suggest that the prevalence of cognitive dysfunction after cardiac surgery in older patients could be related to a possible progression to dementia. In addition, many of the risk factors identified may be modifiable but in practice, these patients are not attended to for their possible cognitive impairment.

Management of older hospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes using linagliptin: Lina-Older study

BACKGROUND

Older patients managed with intensive antidiabetic therapy are more likely to be harmed. Our study's primary endpoint was to analyze the safety and efficacy of linagliptin in combination with basal insulin versus basal-bolus insulin in patients with 75 years of age or older hospitalized in medicine and surgery departments in real-world clinical practice.

METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled non-critically patients ≥75 years with type 2 diabetes admitted to medicine and non-cardiac surgery departments with admission glycated hemoglobin <8%, admission blood glucose <240 mg/dL, and without at-home injectable therapies managed with our hospital's antihyperglycemic protocol (basal-bolus or linagliptin-basal regimens) between January 2016 and December 2018. To match each patient who started on the basal-bolus regimen with a patient who started on the linagliptin-basal regimen, a propensity matching analysis was used.

RESULTS

Postmatching, 198 patients were included in each group. There were no significant differences in mean daily blood glucose levels after admission (P=0.203); patients with mean blood glucose 100-140mg/dL (P=0.134), 140-180mg/dL (P=0.109), or >200mg/dL (P=0.299); and number and day of treatment failure (P=0.159 and P=0.175, respectively). The total insulin dose and the number of daily injections were significantly lower in the linagliptin-basal group (both, P<0.001). Patients on the basal-bolus insulin regimen had more total hypoglycemic events than patients on the linagliptin-basal insulin regimen (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The linagliptin-basal insulin regimen was an effective alternative with fewer hypoglycemic events and daily insulin injections than intensive basal-bolus insulin in very old patients with type 2 diabetes with mild-to-moderate hyperglycemia treated at home without injectable therapies.

Relationship between quadriceps femoris muscle architecture and muscle strength and physical function in older adults with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Heart failure (HF)-related factors potentially lead to sarcopenia. Ultrasound (US) assessment has all the advantages of being used in clinical practice to assess muscle architecture. This study aimed to assess the relationship between the quadriceps femoris (QF) muscle architecture with the gender, age, body mass index (BMI), muscle strength and physical function in older adults with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) as well as to assess the difference in these relationships between the two genders. Patients 70 years and older with HFpEF were included. The gender, age and BMI were collected. The QF muscle thickness, the QF muscle echo-intensity, the subcutaneous fat tissue thickness (FT) and the subcutaneous fat tissue echo-intensity were assessed by the US. The six-minute walk test, the short physical performance battery (SPPB), the timed up and go test (TUG), and the gait speed test (UGS) were used to assess physical function. The five-repetitions sit-to-stand test (5-STS) was performed to assess muscle strength. Bivariant Pearson correlations and subsequent multivariate linear regression analysis were conducted. Seventy older adults with HFpEF [81.00 (5.97) years] were recruited. The FT showed a correlation between poor and moderate muscle strength and physical function in women with HFpEF. The FT explained 24.5% of the 5-STS variance, 32.4% of the SPPB variance, 31.5% of the TUG variance, 28.6% of the UGS variance, and 21.4% of the FGS variance in women. The US assessment could allow clinicians to assess muscle architecture biomarkers related to muscle strength and physical function in older adults with HFpEF.Trial registration NCT03909919. April 10, 2019. Retrospectively registered.

Mortality risk factors in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection and atrial fibrillation: Data from the SEMI-COVID-19 registry

INTRODUCTION

Atrial fibrillation and associated comorbidities pose a risk factor for mortality, morbidity and development of complications in patients admitted for COVID-19.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the clinical, epidemiological, radiological and analytical characteristics of patients with atrial fibrillation admitted for COVID-19 in Spain. Secondarily, we aim to identify those variables associated with mortality and poor prognosis of COVID-19 in patients with atrial fibrillation.

METHODS

Retrospective, observational, multicenter, nationwide, retrospective study of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 from March 1 to October 1, 2020. Data were obtained from the SEMI-COVID-19 Registry of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI) in which 150 Spanish hospitals participate.

RESULTS

Between March 1 and October 1, 2020, data from a total of 16,461 patients were entered into the SEMI-COVID-19 registry. 1816 (11%) had a history of atrial fibrillation and the number of deaths among AF patients amounted to 738 (41%). Regarding clinical characteristics, deceased patients were admitted with a higher heart rate (88.38 vs. 84.95; P>0.01), with a higher percentage of respiratory failure (67.2 vs. 20.1%; P<0.01) and high tachypnea (58 vs. 30%; P<0.01). The comorbidities that presented statistically significant differences in the deceased group were: age, hypertension and diabetes with target organ involvement. There was also a higher prevalence of a history of cardiovascular disease in the deceased. On multivariate analysis, DOACs treatment had a protective role for mortality (OR: 0.597; CI: 0.402-0.888; P=0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

Previous treatment with DOACs and DOACs treatment during admission seem to have a protective role in patients with atrial fibrillation, although this fact should be verified in prospective studies.

Mortality risk factors in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection and atrial fibrillation: Data from the SEMI-COVID-19 registry

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation and associated comorbidities pose a risk factor for mortality, morbidity and development of complications in patients admitted for COVID-19.

Objectives

To describe the clinical, epidemiological, radiological and analytical characteristics of patients with AF admitted for COVID-19 in Spain. Secondarily, we aim to identify those variables associated with mortality and poor prognosis of COVID-19 in patients with AF.

Methods

Retrospective, observational, multicenter, nationwide, retrospective study of patients hospitalized for COVID-19 from March 1 to October 1, 2020. Data were obtained from the SEMI-COVID-19 Registry of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI) in which 150 Spanish hospitals participate.

Results

Between March 1 and October 1, 2020, data from a total of 16,461 patients were entered into the SEMI-COVID-19 registry. 1,816 (11%) had a history of AF and the number of deaths among AF patients amounted to 738 (41%). Regarding clinical characteristics, deceased patients were admitted with a higher heart rate (88.38 vs 84.95; p > 0.01), with a higher percentage of respiratory failure (67.2% vs 20.1%; p < 0.01) and high tachypnea (58% vs 30%; p < 0.01). The comorbidities that presented statistically significant differences in the deceased group were: age, hypertension and diabetes with target organ involvement. There was also a higher prevalence of a history of cardiovascular disease in the deceased. On multivariate analysis, DOACs treatment had a protective role for mortality (OR:0,597) IC (0,402-0,888 ; p = 0.011).

Conclusions

Previous treatment with DOACs and DOACs treatment during admission seem to have a protective role in patients with AF, although this fact should be verified in prospective studies.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors for cardiovascular and renal protection: A treatment approach far beyond their glucose-lowering effect

Findings from cardiovascular outcome trials on certain newer glucose-lowering drugs have shown clear cardiovascular and renal benefits. In this review, we provide an updated overview of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors in terms of cardiovascular and renal protection. Both drugs have been described as diabetes/disease-modifying drugs. There is robust evidence on the benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists in renal disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease-especially in stroke-which are mainly explained by their antiproteinuric effect. However, this class of drugs has only shown neutral effects on heart failure and further studies are necessary in order to assess their role in this disease. SGLT-2 inhibitors have shown strong benefits in heart failure hospitalizations and renal outcomes, mainly through limiting glomerular filtration rate deterioration, regardless of the presence of diabetes. Nonetheless, their effect on the prevention of major adverse atherosclerotic cardiovascular events and cardiovascular mortality seems to be limited to patients with type 2 diabetes and established cardiovascular disease. Evidence on the cardiovascular and renal benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors have significantly modified management plans and treatment choices for patients with type 2 diabetes. There is now a focus on a multifactorial approach that goes beyond the glucose-lowering effect of these drugs, which are the preferred choice in routine clinical practice. According to the current evidence, a patient-focused approach that includes both individualized glycemic control and cardiorenal prevention using GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors with proven cardiovascular and renal benefits is believed to be the best strategy for achieving the treatment goals of patients with type 2 diabetes. Despite the strong cardiovascular and renal benefits of these drugs, further research is required in order to clarify questions that remain unanswered.

Real-world use of once-weekly semaglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes at an outpatient clinic in Spain

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the use of once-weekly semaglutide in a real population of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in three Spanish hospitals.

METHOD

An observational, retrospective and multicenter clinical study was designed that included 166 participants with T2DM, distinguishing between a group naïve to GLP-1RA (n=72) and another switching from another GLP-1RA (n=94), all managed in the outpatient clinical setting. The primary endpoint was the change in HbA1c from baseline to the end of the study. The secondary endpoints included changes in body weight and the proportion of people with T2DM, achieving HbA1c <7.0% and body weight loss >5%.

RESULTS

After 24 months of follow-up, the reductions in HbA1c were -0.91 ± 0.7% (p<0.001) in the total cohort, -1.13 ± 1.38% (p<0.019) for GLP-1RA-naïve participants, and -0.74 ± 0.9% (p<0.023) for GLP-1RA-experienced participants. Body weight reductions were -12.42 ± 9.1% in GLP-1RA-naïve participants vs. -7.65 ± 9.7% in GLP-1RA-experienced participants (p<0.001). In the total cohort, 77.1% reached the objective of an HbA1c level <7%, and 12.7% reached between 7.1% and 7.5%. Additionally, 66.9% achieved a weight reduction ≥5%. Of all cohort, 90% received 1 mg of semaglutide once a week. The reported adverse events were consistent with the known safety profile of semaglutide.

CONCLUSIONS

In routine clinical practice in Spain, the use of semaglutide once a week was associated with statistically significant and clinically relevant improvements in HbA1c and body weight in a wide range of adults with T2DM, without notable adverse effects, which supports real-world use.

Efficacy and Safety of Semaglutide for the Management of Obese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Heart Failure in Real-World Clinical Practice

BACKGROUND

The impact of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists on patients with heart failure has not been fully described. Our main objective was to evaluate the safety and clinical and glycemic efficacy of once-weekly semaglutide in obese patients with type 2 diabetes and heart failure.

METHODS

In this observational, retrospective, real-world study, we enrolled outpatients with type 2 diabetes, obesity, and heart failure who started semaglutide and were followed-up on at 3, 6, and 12 months.

RESULTS

A total of 136 patients were included. From baseline to 12 months, there was a significant improvement on the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire total symptom score (59.0 ± 24.1 vs 79.9 ± 28.4 points, p<0.01), a reduction in the proportion of patients with New York Heart Association functional class III (40.4% to 16.2%, p<0.01), and a reduction in N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide levels (969.5 ± 653.5 vs 577.4 ± 322.1 pg/mL, p<0.01). Emergency department visits due to heart failure, hospitalizations due to heart failure, and all-cause hospitalizations also declined. Additionally, significant reductions in glycated hemoglobin (-1.4%) and body weight (-12.7 kilograms) were observed as well as a de-intensification of antidiabetic therapy. Moreover, semaglutide was safe and well-tolerated.

CONCLUSION

In obese patients with type 2 diabetes and heart failure, the use of once-weekly semaglutide was safe and clinically efficacious, improving health and functional status. Nevertheless, more strong evidence on glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in heart failure is required.

Admission hyperglycaemia as a predictor of mortality in patients hospitalized with COVID-19 regardless of diabetes status: data from the Spanish SEMI-COVID-19 Registry

BACKGROUND

Hyperglycaemia has emerged as an important risk factor for death in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between blood glucose (BG) levels and in-hospital mortality in non-critically patients hospitalized with COVID-19.

METHODS

This is a retrospective multi-centre study involving patients hospitalized in Spain. Patients were categorized into three groups according to admission BG levels: <140 mg/dL, 140-180 mg/dL and >180 mg/dL. The primary endpoint was all-cause in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

Of the 11,312 patients, only 2128 (18.9%) had diabetes and 2289 (20.4%) died during hospitalization. The in-hospital mortality rates were 15.7% (<140 mg/dL), 33.7% (140-180 mg) and 41.1% (>180 mg/dL), p<.001. The cumulative probability of mortality was significantly higher in patients with hyperglycaemia compared to patients with normoglycaemia (log rank, p<.001), independently of pre-existing diabetes. Hyperglycaemia (after adjusting for age, diabetes, hypertension and other confounding factors) was an independent risk factor of mortality (BG >180 mg/dL: HR 1.50; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.31-1.73) (BG 140-180 mg/dL; HR 1.48; 95%CI: 1.29-1.70). Hyperglycaemia was also associated with requirement for mechanical ventilation, intensive care unit (ICU) admission and mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Admission hyperglycaemia is a strong predictor of all-cause mortality in non-critically hospitalized COVID-19 patients regardless of prior history of diabetes. KEY MESSAGE Admission hyperglycaemia is a stronger and independent risk factor for mortality in COVID-19. Screening for hyperglycaemia, in patients without diabetes, and early treatment of hyperglycaemia should be mandatory in the management of patients hospitalized with COVID-19. Admission hyperglycaemia should not be overlooked in all patients regardless prior history of diabetes.

Clinical benefits of empagliflozin in very old patients with type 2 diabetes hospitalized for acute heart failure

BACKGROUND

There is little evidence on the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in older patients with heart failure. This work analyzed the clinical efficacy and safety of empagliflozin continuation in very old patients with type 2 diabetes hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure.

METHODS

We conducted a real-world observational study between September 2015 and June 2021. Patients ≥80 years were grouped by antihyperglycemic regimen: (1) continuation of preadmission empagliflozin combined with basal insulin regimen and (2) conventional basal-bolus insulin regimen. A propensity score matching analysis matched patients in both groups in a 1:1 manner. The primary outcome was differences in clinical efficacy measured by the visual analogue scale dyspnea score, NT-proBNP levels, diuretic response, and cumulative urine output. Safety endpoints such as adverse events, worsening heart failure, discontinuation of empagliflozin, length of hospital stay, and in-hospital deaths were also analyzed.

RESULTS

After propensity score matching, 79 patients were included in each group. At discharge, the N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels were lower in the empagliflozin continuation group than in the insulin group (1699 ± 522 vs. 2303 ± 598 pg/ml, p = 0.021). Both the diuretic response and cumulative urine output were greater in patients treated with empagliflozin than in patients with basal-bolus insulin during the hospitalization (at discharge: -0.14 ± -0.06 vs. -0.24 ± -0.10, p = 0.044; and 16,100 ± 1510 vs. 13,900 ± 1220 ml, p = 0.037, respectively). No differences were observed in safety outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

In very old patients with type 2 diabetes hospitalized for acute heart failure, continuing preadmission empagliflozin reduced NT-proBNP levels and increased diuretic response and urine output compared to a basal-bolus insulin regimen. The empagliflozin regimen also showed a good safety profile.

Efficacy and Safety of Empagliflozin Continuation in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Hospitalised for Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

There is little evidence on the use of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in hospitalised patients. This work aims to analyse the glycaemic and clinical efficacy and safety of empagliflozin continuation in patients with type 2 diabetes hospitalised for acute decompensated heart failure. This real-world observational study includes patients treated using our in-hospital antihyperglycaemic regimens (basal-bolus insulin vs. empagliflozin-basal insulin) between 2017 and 2020. A propensity matching analysis was used to match a patient on one regimen with a patient on the other regimen. Our primary endpoints were the differences in glycaemic control, as measured via mean daily blood glucose levels, and differences in the visual analogue scale dyspnoea score, NT-proBNP levels, diuretic response, and cumulative urine output. Safety endpoints were also analysed. After a propensity matching analysis, 91 patients were included in each group. There were no differences in mean blood glucose levels (152.1 ± 17.8 vs. 155.2 ± 19.7 mg/dL, p = 0.289). At discharge, NT-proBNP levels were lower and cumulative urine output greater in the empagliflozin group versus the basal-bolus insulin group (1652 ± 501 vs. 2101 ± 522 pg/mL, p = 0.032 and 16,100 ± 1510 vs. 13,900 ± 1220 mL, p = 0.037, respectively). Patients who continued empagliflozin had a lower total number of hypoglycaemic episodes (36 vs. 64, p < 0.001). No differences were observed in adverse events, length of hospital stay, or in-hospital deaths. For patients with acute heart failure, an in-hospital antihyperglycaemic regimen that includes continuation of empagliflozin achieved effective glycaemic control, lower NT-proBNP, and greater urine output. It was also safer, as it reduced hypoglycaemic episodes without increasing other safety endpoints.

Cardiometabolic Therapy and Mortality in Very Old Patients With Diabetes Hospitalized due to COVID-19

Background

The effects of cardiometabolic drugs on the prognosis of diabetic patients with COVID-19, especially very old patients, are not well-known. This work aims to analyze the association between preadmission cardiometabolic therapy (antidiabetic, antiaggregant, antihypertensive, and lipid-lowering drugs) and in-hospital mortality among patients ≥80 years with type 2 diabetes mellitus hospitalized for COVID-19.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide, multicenter, observational study in patients ≥80 years with type 2 diabetes mellitus hospitalized for COVID-19 between March 1 and May 29, 2020. The primary outcome measure was in-hospital mortality. A multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to assess the association between preadmission cardiometabolic therapy and in-hospital mortality.

Results

Of the 2,763 patients ≥80 years old hospitalized due to COVID-19, 790 (28.6%) had T2DM. Of these patients, 385 (48.7%) died during admission. On the multivariate analysis, the use of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (AOR 0.502, 95%CI 0.309-0.815, p=0.005) and angiotensin receptor blockers (AOR 0.454, 95%CI 0.274-0.759, p=0.003) were independent protectors against in-hospital mortality whereas the use of acetylsalicylic acid was associated with higher in-hospital mortality (AOR 1.761, 95%CI 1.092-2.842, p=0.020). Other antidiabetic drugs, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and statins showed neutral association with in-hospital mortality.

Conclusions

We found important differences between cardiometabolic drugs and in-hospital mortality in older patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus hospitalized for COVID-19. Preadmission treatment with dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers could reduce in-hospital mortality; other antidiabetic drugs, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and statins seem to have a neutral effect; and acetylsalicylic acid could be associated with excess mortality.

Recommendations on the comprehensive, multidimensional assessment of hospitalized elderly people. Position of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine

This position paper describes the most relevant and essential aspects of a comprehensive, multidimensional assessment of hospitalized elderly people. The change in demographic patterns and the epidemiological profiles of diseases makes it necessary for internal medicine departments to adapt in order to take into account the vulnerabilities of the elderly in this context. A comprehensive, multidimensional assessment and the multidisciplinary development of a care plan during hospitalization can have an impact in terms of preventing mortality, disability, and institutionalization at discharge. It is necessary for all internists to acquire skills to improve the hospitalization experience in the elderly and obtain better health outcomes in our patients. This document has been developed by the Focus Group on Aging and the Polypathological and Advanced Age Working Group and endorsed by the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine.

Recommendations on the comprehensive, multidimensional assessment of hospitalized elderly people. Position of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine

This position paper describes the most relevant and essential aspects of a comprehensive, multidimensional assessment of hospitalized elderly people. The change in demographic patterns and the epidemiological profiles of diseases makes it necessary for internal medicine departments to adapt in order to take into account the vulnerabilities of the elderly in this context. A comprehensive, multidimensional assessment and the multidisciplinary development of a care plan during hospitalization can have an impact in terms of preventing mortality, disability, and institutionalization at discharge. It is necessary for all internists to acquire skills to improve the hospitalization experience in the elderly and obtain better health outcomes in our patients. This document has been developed by the Focus Group on Aging and the Polypathological and Advanced Age Working Group and endorsed by the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine.

Simplified glycaemic management for patients with type 2 diabetes admitted for acute decompensated heart failure using linagliptin

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Hyperglycaemia in hospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes is preferably managed with insulin. We aimed to analyse the glycaemic efficacy, treatment simplicity, and safety of our hospital's antihyperglycemic regimens (linagliptin-basal insulin versus basal-bolus insulin) in patients with type 2 diabetes admitted for heart failure decompensation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this real-world study, we included patients with mild-to-moderate hyperglycaemia managed with our antihyperglycemic regimens between 2016 and 2018. To match patients who started one of the regimens, a propensity matching analysis was used.

RESULTS

After propensity matching, 146 patients were included in each group. There were no differences in mean blood glucose levels (163.6±21.2 vs 159.6±19.2mg/dl, p=.210). Patients on the linagliptin-basal insulin regimen had a lower total number of hypoglycaemic episodes (36 vs 64, p<.001), lower total insulin dose (24.1±5.3 vs 32.0±5.6 units, p<.001), and lower number of daily injections (2.4±.8 vs 4.0±.0, p<.001) than those on the basal-bolus regimen.

CONCLUSIONS

Linagliptin-basal insulin was a safe, simple, and efficacious regimen and could be considered standard of care for these vulnerable, high complex patients to simplify in-hospital management.

Assessment of long-term cognitive dysfunction in older patients who undergo heart surgery

INTRODUCTION

Older patients are more likely to have cognitive dysfunction, and a great proportion of patients undergone surgical procedures are older adults. Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) has been shown as a consistent complication after major surgical procedures such as heart surgery.

AIM

To determine the presence of long-term POCD in ≥65-year-old patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting and aortic valve replacement, and to establish related risk factors.

METHODS

We prospectively and sequentially included 44 patients with coronary disease and aortic stenosis scheduled for heart surgery. Follow-up of all patients was standardized and a neurocognitive evaluation were performed preoperatively and at 1, 6 and 12 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Patients experienced a significantly postoperative cognitive dysfunction (33.5%, 63.4% and 38.9% at 1, 6 and 12 months, respectively) from baseline (20.5%). Patient-associated aspects such as age (p<0.01), history of smoking (p<0.01), arterial hypertension (p=0.022), diabetes mellitus (p=0.024), heart failure (p=0.036) and preoperative cognitive dysfunction (p<0.01), and surgery-associated aspects such as EuroSCORE (p<0.01) and operation time (p<0.01) were identified as related risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Older patients who underwent heart surgery had long-term POCD. Both patient- and surgery-related risk factors were established as related risk factors. These findings suggest that the prevalence of cognitive dysfunction after cardiac surgery in older patients could be related to a possible progression to dementia. In addition, many of the risk factors identified may be modifiable but in practice, these patients are not attended to for their possible cognitive impairment.

Mortality and other adverse outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus admitted for COVID-19 in association with glucose-lowering drugs: a nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND

Limited evidence exists on the role of glucose-lowering drugs in patients with COVID-19. Our main objective was to examine the association between in-hospital death and each routine at-home glucose-lowering drug both individually and in combination with metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus admitted for COVID-19. We also evaluated their association with the composite outcome of the need for ICU admission, invasive and non-invasive mechanical ventilation, or in-hospital death as well as on the development of in-hospital complications and a long-time hospital stay.

METHODS

We selected all patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine's registry of COVID-19 patients (SEMI-COVID-19 Registry). It is an ongoing, observational, multicenter, nationwide cohort of patients admitted for COVID-19 in Spain from March 1, 2020. Each glucose-lowering drug user was matched with a user of other glucose-lowering drugs in a 1:1 manner by propensity scores. In order to assess the adequacy of propensity score matching, we used the standardized mean difference found in patient characteristics after matching. There was considered to be a significant imbalance in the group if a standardized mean difference > 10% was found. To evaluate the association between treatment and study outcomes, both conditional logit and mixed effect logistic regressions were used when the sample size was ≥ 100.

RESULTS

A total of 2666 patients were found in the SEMI-COVID-19 Registry, 1297 on glucose-lowering drugs in monotherapy and 465 in combination with metformin. After propensity matching, 249 patients on metformin, 105 on dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, 129 on insulin, 127 on metformin/dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, 34 on metformin/sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor, and 67 on metformin/insulin were selected. No at-home glucose-lowering drugs showed a significant association with in-hospital death; the composite outcome of the need of intensive care unit admission, mechanical ventilation, or in-hospital death; in-hospital complications; or long-time hospital stays.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus admitted for COVID-19, at-home glucose-lowering drugs showed no significant association with mortality and adverse outcomes. Given the close relationship between diabetes and COVID-19 and the limited evidence on the role of glucose-lowering drugs, prospective studies are needed.

Differences between Clinical Protocols for the Treatment of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Andalusia, Spain

Our objective was to compare clinical protocols for the treatment of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among different hospitals in Andalusia, Spain. We reviewed the current COVID-19 protocols of the 15 largest hospitals in Andalusia. Antiviral treatment, empirical antibacterial agents, adjunctive therapies, anticoagulant treatment, supportive care, hospital organization, and discharge recommendations were analyzed. All protocols included were the latest updates as of July 2020. Hydroxychloroquine in monotherapy was the most frequent antiviral drug recommended for mild respiratory illness with clinical risk factors (33.3%). Combined hydroxychloroquine with azithromycin or lopinavir/ritonavir was found in 40% of protocols. The recommended treatment for patients with mild and moderate pneumonias was different antiviral combinations including hydroxychloroquine plus azithromycin (93.3%) or hydroxychloroquine plus lopinavir/ritonavir (79.9%). Different combinations of hydroxychloroquine and lopinavir/ritonavir (46.7%) and triple therapy with hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, and lopinavir/ritonavir (40%) were the most recommended treatments for patients with severe pneumonia. There were five corticosteroid regimens, which used dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, or prednisone, with different doses and treatment durations. Anakinra was included in seven protocols with six different regimens. All protocols included prophylactic heparin and therapeutic doses for thromboembolism. Higher prophylactic doses of heparin for high-risk patients and therapeutic doses for patients in critical condition were included in 53.3% and 33.3% of protocols, respectively. This study showed that COVID-19 protocols varied widely in several aspects (antiviral treatment, corticosteroids, anakinra, and anticoagulation for high risk of thrombosis or critical situation). Rigorous randomized clinical trials on the proposed treatments are needed to provide consistent evidence.

Glycaemic efficacy and safety of linagliptin for the management of non-cardiac surgery patients with type 2 diabetes in a real-world setting: Lina-Surg study

Introduction: The use of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors in hospitalized patients is an area of active research. We aimed to compare the efficacy and the safety of the basal-bolus insulin regimen versus linagliptin-basal insulin in non-critically ill non-cardiac surgery patients in a real-world setting. Methods: We enrolled patients with type 2 diabetes hospitalized in non-cardiac surgery departments with admission glycated haemoglobin level < 8%, admission blood glucose concentration < 240 mg/dL, and no at-home injectable treatments who were treated with basal-bolus (n = 347) or linagliptin-basal (n = 190) regimens between January 2016 and December 2017. To match patients on the two regimens, a propensity matching analysis was performed. Results: After matching, 120 patients were included in each group. No differences were noted in mean blood glucose concentration after admission (p = .162), number of patients with a mean blood glucose 100-140 mg/dL (p = .163) and > 200 mg/dL (p = .199), and treatment failures (p = .395). Total daily insulin and number of daily insulin injections were lower in the linagliptin-basal group (both p < .001). Patients on linagliptin-basal insulin had fewer hypoglycaemic events (blood glucose < 70 mg/dL) (p < .001). Conclusion: For type 2 diabetes surgery patients with mild to moderate hyperglycaemia without pre-hospitalization injectable therapies, linagliptin-basal insulin was an effective, safe alternative with fewer hypoglycaemic events in real-world practice. Key messages Treatment with basal-bolus insulin regimens is the standard of care for non-critically ill hospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes. A differentiated treatment protocol that takes into account glycaemic control and clinical factors should be implemented in the hospital setting. Linagliptin-basal insulin is an effective, safe alternative with fewer hypoglycaemic events during the hospitalization of non-critically ill non-cardiac surgery patients with T2D in real-world practice.

Trends in Diabetes-Related Potentially Preventable Hospitalizations in Adult Population in Spain, 1997⁻2015: A Nation-Wide Population-Based Study

We aimed to assess national trends in the rates of diabetes-related potentially preventable hospitalizations (overall and by preventable condition) in the total adult population of Spain. We performed a population-based study of all adult patients with diabetes who were hospitalized from 1997 to 2015. Overall potentially preventable hospitalizations and hospitalizations by diabetes-related preventable conditions (short-term complications, long-term complications, uncontrolled diabetes, and lower-extremity amputations) were examined. Annual rates adjusted for age and sex were analyzed and trends were calculated. Over 19-years-period, 424,874 diabetes-related potentially preventable hospitalizations were recorded. Overall diabetes-related potentially preventable hospitalizations decreased significantly, with an average annual percentage change of 5.1 (95%CI: −5.6–(−4.7%); p_trend < 0.001). Among preventable conditions, the greatest decrease was observed in uncontrolled diabetes (−5.6%; 95%CI: −6.7–(−4.7%); p_trend < 0.001), followed by short-term complications (−5.4%; 95%CI: −6.1–(−4.9%); p_trend < 0.001), long-term complications (−4.6%; 95%CI: −5.1–(−3.9%); p_trend < 0.001), and lower-extremity amputations (−1.9%; 95%CI: −3.0–(−1.3%); p_trend < 0.001). These reductions were observed in all age strata for overall DM-related PPH and by preventable condition but lower-extremity amputations for those <65 years old. There was a greater reduction in overall DM-related PPH, uncontrolled DM, long-term-complications, and lower extremity amputations in females than in males (all p < 0.01). No significant difference was shown for short-term complications (p = 0.101). Our study shows a significant reduction in national trends for diabetes-related potentially preventable hospitalizations in Spain. These findings could suggest a sustained improvement in diabetes care in Spain, despite the burden of these diabetes-related complications and the increase in the diabetes mellitus prevalence.

Overexpression of scavenger receptor and infiltration of macrophage in epicardial adipose tissue of patients with ischemic heart disease and diabetes

Background

Oxidized low-density lipoproteins and scavenger receptors (SRs) play an important role in the formation and development of atherosclerotic plaques. However, little is known about their presence in epicardial adipose tissue (EAT). The objective of the study was to evaluate the mRNA expression of different SRs in EAT of patients with ischemic heart disease (IHD), stratifying by diabetes status and its association with clinical and biochemical variables.

Methods

We analyzed the mRNA expression of SRs (LOX-1, MSR1, CXCL16, CD36 and CL-P1) and macrophage markers (CD68, CD11c and CD206) in EAT from 45 patients with IHD (23 with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and 22 without T2DM) and 23 controls without IHD or T2DM.

Results

LOX-1, CL-P1, CD68 and CD11c mRNA expression were significantly higher in diabetic patients with IHD when compared with those without T2DM and control patients. MSR1, CXCL16, CD36 and CD206 showed no significant differences. In IHD patients, LOX-1 (OR 2.9; 95% CI 1.6–6.7; P = 0.019) and CD68 mRNA expression (OR 1.7; 95% CI 0.98–4.5; P = 0.049) were identified as independent risk factors associated with T2DM. Glucose and glycated hemoglobin were also shown to be risk factors.

Conclusions

SRs mRNA expression is found in EAT. LOX-1 and CD68 and were higher in IHD patients with T2DM and were identified as a cardiovascular risk factor of T2DM. This study suggests the importance of EAT in coronary atherosclerosis among patients with T2DM.

National trends in diabetes mellitus hospitalization in Spain 1997-2010: Analysis of over 5.4 millions of admissions

AIMS

To analyze national trends in the rates of hospitalizations (all-cause and by principal discharge diagnosis) in total diabetic population of Spain.

METHODS

We carried out a nation-wide population-based study of all diabetic patients hospitalized between 1997 and 2010. All-cause hospitalizations, hospitalizations by principal discharge diagnosis, mean age, Charlson Comorbidity Index, readmission rates and length of hospital stay were examined. Annual rates adjusted for age and sex were analyzed and trends were calculated.

RESULTS

Over 14-years-period, all-cause hospitalizations of diabetic patients increased significantly, with an average annual percentage change of 2.5 (95%CI: 1.5-3.5; P_trend < 0.01). The greatest increase was observed in heart failure (5.4; 95%CI: 4.8-6.0; P_trend < 0.001), followed by neoplasms (4.9; 95%CI: 3.6-5.8; P_trend < 0.001), pneumonia (2.7; 95%CI: 2.0-4.0; P_trend < 0.001), stroke (2.4; 95%CI: 1.6-3.4; P_trend < 0.001), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (2.0; 95%CI: 1.4-3.4; P_trend < 0.001) and coronary artery disease (1.6; 95%CI: 1.1-2.3; P_trend < 0.01). The adjusted number of all-cause hospitalizations of patients with diabetes per 100,000 inhabitants increased 2.6-fold. The increase in hospitalizations was significantly higher among patients ≥75 years old. Males experienced a greater increase in all-cause, neoplasm, heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and pneumonia hospitalizations (p < 0.01 for all). Hospitalized diabetic patients were progressively older and had more comorbidities, higher readmission rates and shorter hospital stays (p < 0.05 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Hospitalizations of diabetic patients more than doubled in Spain during the study period. Heart failure and neoplasms experienced the greatest annual increases and remained the principal causes of hospitalization, probably associated with advanced age and comorbidities of hospitalized diabetics. Coronary and cerebrovascular diseases experienced a lower annual increase, suggesting an improvement in cardiovascular care in diabetes in Spain.

Use of Linagliptin for the Management of Medicine Department Inpatients with Type 2 Diabetes in Real-World Clinical Practice (Lina-Real-World Study)

The use of noninsulin antihyperglycaemic drugs in the hospital setting has not yet been fully described. This observational study compared the efficacy and safety of the standard basal-bolus insulin regimen versus a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (linagliptin) plus basal insulin in medicine department inpatients in real-world clinical practice. We retrospectively enrolled non-critically ill patients with type 2 diabetes with mild to moderate hyperglycaemia and no injectable treatments at home who were treated with a hospital antihyperglycaemic regimen (basal-bolus insulin, or linagliptin-basal insulin) between January 2016 and December 2017. Propensity score was used to match patients in both treatment groups and a comparative analysis was conducted to test the significance of differences between groups. After matched-pair analysis, 227 patients were included per group. No differences were shown between basal-bolus versus linagliptin-basal regimens for the mean daily blood glucose concentration after admission (standardized difference = 0.011), number of blood glucose readings between 100–140 mg/dL (standardized difference = 0.017) and >200 mg/dL (standardized difference = 0.021), or treatment failures (standardized difference = 0.011). Patients on basal-bolus insulin received higher total insulin doses and a higher daily number of injections (standardized differences = 0.298 and 0.301, respectively). Basal and supplemental rapid-acting insulin doses were similar (standardized differences = 0.003 and 0.012, respectively). There were no differences in hospital stay length (standardized difference = 0.003), hypoglycaemic events (standardized difference = 0.018), or hospital complications (standardized difference = 0.010) between groups. This study shows that in real-world clinical practice, the linagliptin-basal insulin regimen was as effective and safe as the standard basal-bolus regimen in non-critical patients with type 2 diabetes with mild to moderate hyperglycaemia treated at home without injectable therapies.

Benefits of Cardiac Rehabilitation on Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients With Diabetes Mellitus After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

BACKGROUND

Participation in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an essential component of care for patients with coronary artery disease. However, little is known about its benefit on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) who have undergone percutaneous coronary intervention. The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of CR in this high-risk group of patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We performed a retrospective analysis of all patients with DM who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention in Olmsted County (Minnesota) between 1994 and 2010, assessing the impact of CR participation on clinical outcomes. CR participation was significantly lower in patients with DM (38%, 263/700) compared with those who did not have DM (45%, 1071/2379; P=0.004). Using propensity score adjustment, we found that in patients with DM, CR participation was associated with significantly reduced all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 0.56; 95% confidence interval, 0.39-0.80; P=0.002) and composite end point of mortality, myocardial infarction, or revascularization (hazard ratio, 0.77; 95% confidence interval, 0.60-0.98; P=0.037), during a median follow-up of 8.1 years. In patients without DM, CR participation was associated with a significant reduction in all-cause mortality (hazard ratio, 0.67; 95% confidence interval, 0.55-0.82; P<0.001) and cardiac mortality (hazard ratio, 0.67; 95% confidence interval, 0.47-0.95; P=0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

CR participation after percutaneous coronary intervention is associated with lower all-cause mortality rates in patients with DM, to a similar degree as for those without DM. However, CR participation was lower in patients with DM, suggesting the need to identify and correct the barriers to CR participation for this higher-risk group of patients.

Concordance of Barthel Index, ECOG-PS, and Palliative Performance Scale in the assessment of functional status in patients with advanced medical diseases

OBJECTIVE

Analysing most relevant clinical features and concordance between different functional scales in patients with advanced medical diseases (PAMD).

METHODS

Cross-sectional multicentre study that included PAMD (heart, lung, kidney, liver, and neurological diseases) in hospital settings from February 2009 to October 2010. We analysed clinical, biological and functional features in performing activities of daily living (ADL) by medians of Barthel Index (BI); additionally we assessed their performance status by medians of Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group-Performance Status (ECOG-PS) and Palliative Performance Scale (PPS) scores. We evaluated the concordance of these instruments in assessing functional impairment by κ and intraclass correlation coefficient tests.

RESULTS

1847 patients were included (average age 79 years, 50.1% men). Most common symptoms were dyspnoea (62.31%), asthenia (23%) and delirium (20.14%). Functional assessment showed a high prevalence of severe or total impairment in performing basic ADL by medians of used instruments (BI median=35 (IQR=70), and 52.1% of patients with severe-total impairment; ECOG-PS median=2 (IQR 30), and 44% of patients with severe-total impairment; and PPS median=50 (IQR 30), and 32% of patients with severe-total impairment). Concordance among these instruments was acceptably good (κ indexes ranging from 0.653 to 0.745 (p<0.0001)).

CONCLUSIONS

PAMD represent a population with severe functional impairment, which requires a multidisciplinary approach for proper management. Assessment of functional ability in this population by BI, ECOG-PS, and PPS showed good concordance.

Expression of epicardial adipose tissue thermogenic genes in patients with reduced and preserved ejection fraction heart failure

Epicardial adipose tissue has been proposed to participate in the pathogenesis of heart failure. The aim of our study was to assess the expression of thermogenic genes (Uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC1α), and PR-domain-missing 16 (PRDM16) in epicardial adipose tissue in patients with heart failure, stablishing the difference according to left ventricular ejection fraction (reduced or preserved). Among the 75 patients in our study, 42.7% (n=32) had reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. UCP1, PGC1α and PRDM16 mRNA in EAT were significantly lower in patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. Multiple regression analysis showed that age, male gender, body max index, presence of obesity, type-2-diabetes mellitus, hypertension and coronary artery disease and left ventricular ejection fraction were associated with the expression levels of UCP1, PGC1α and PRDM16 mRNA. Thermogenic genes expressions in epicardial adipose tissue (UCP1: OR 0.617, 95%CI 0.103-0.989, p=0.042; PGC1α: OR 0.416, 95%CI 0.171-0.912, p=0.031; PRDM16: OR 0.643, 95%CI 0.116-0.997, p=0.044) were showed as protective factors against the presence of heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, and age (OR 1.643, 95%CI 1.001-3.143, p=0.026), presence of coronary artery disease (OR 6.743, 95%CI 1.932-15.301, p<0.001) and type-2-diabetes mellitus (OR 4.031, 95%CI 1.099-7.231, p<0.001) were associated as risk factors. The adequate expression of thermogenic genes has been shown as possible protective factors against heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, suggesting that a loss of functional epicardial adipose tissue brown-like features would participate in a deleterious manner on heart metabolism. Thermogenic genes could represent a future novel therapeutic target in heart failure.

Expression of Sterol Regulatory Element-Binding Proteins in epicardial adipose tissue in patients with coronary artery disease and diabetes mellitus: preliminary study

Objectives: Sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBP) genes are crucial in lipid biosynthesis and cardiovascular homeostasis. Their expression in epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and their influence in the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) and type-2 diabetes mellitus remain to be determined. The aim of our study was to evaluate the expression of SREBP genes in EAT in patients with CAD according to diabetes status and its association with clinical and biochemical data. Methods: SREBP-1 and SREBP-2 mRNA expression levels were measured in EAT from 49 patients with CAD (26 with diabetes) and 23 controls without CAD or diabetes. Results: Both SREBPs mRNA expression were significantly higher in patients with CAD and diabetes (p<0.001) and were identified as independent cardiovascular risk factor for coronary artery disease in patients with type-2 diabetes (SREBP-1: OR 1.7, 95%CI 1.1-2.5, p=0.02; SREBP-2: OR 1.6, 95%CI 1.2-3, p=0.02) and were independently associated with the presence of multivessel CAD, left main and anterior descending artery stenosis, and higher total and LDL cholesterol levels, and lower HDL cholesterol levels, in patients with CAD and diabetes. Conclusions: SREBP genes are expressed in EAT and were higher in CAD patients with diabetes than those patients without CAD or diabetes. SREBP expression was associated as cardiovascular risk factor for the severity of CAD and the poor lipid control. In this preliminary study we suggest the importance of EAT in the lipid metabolism and cardiovascular homeostasis for coronary atherosclerosis of patients with diabetes and highlight a future novel therapeutic target.

[Role of serum leptin in the severity of coronary artery disease in patients with stable angina]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Leptin is a plasmatic peptide hormone that has been related to cardiovascular homeostasis and atherosclerosis but much is still unknown about its relationship with coronary artery disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the value of serum leptin in patients with stable angina and its relationship with the severity of coronary disease.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

204 patients, 152 with stable angina (coronary artery disease group) and 52 without coronary disease excluded by cardiac computerized tomography (control group) were included. The coronary artery disease group was divided into 2 subgroups according to severity of coronary disease (single or multivessel disease, 46 and 106 patients, respectively). Serum leptin levels were determined by Enzyme-Linked InmunoSorbent Assay.

RESULTS

Leptin levels were significantly higher in patients with multivessel disease and were independently associated with a greater severity of coronary artery disease when compared with controls (OR 1.14; 95%CI: 1.03-1.27; p=0.014) and with patients with single vessel disease (OR 1.12; 95%CI: 1.01-1.25; p=0.036). Serum leptin was tested as a diagnostic marker of multivessel disease with an area under the curve obtained from Receiver Operating Characteristics of 0.6764 (95%CI 0.5765-0.7657).

CONCLUSIONS

Serum leptin levels were associated in patients with stable angina with the severity of coronary artery disease, suggesting its value in the development of coronary disease and as a future therapeutic target.

Images in Clinical Medicine: Osler-Weber-Rendu Syndrome

A 58-year-old woman presented with intermittent passage of bright red blood from the rectum, progressive fatigue, and dyspnea. Examination revealed telangiectasias on the labial mucosa and nail folds. Her mother was reported to have frequent epistaxis and similar skin lesions.

[Cognitive impairment in patients with coronary disease: relationship with clinical variables]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Coronary disease has been associated with cognitive disorders. We studied the presence of dysexecutive mild cognitive impairment in patients scheduled for coronary surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The executive function of 35 patients was evaluated (Trail Making Test). They were classified into 2 groups: normal performance or cognitive impairment, and we assessed the relationship with others variables (Mann-Whitney, chi-square and multiple regression analysis).

RESULTS

The dysexecutive cognitive impairment group (n=7; 20%) showed greater degree of angina (odds ratio [OR] 1.4, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.1-2.6; P=.04), 3-vessels coronary artery disease (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.08-3.6; P=.04) and body mass index (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.16-3.65; P=.03) and lower diastolic blood pressure (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.2-2.98; P=.02), hemoglobin (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.18-4.05; P=.02) and hematocrit (OR 2.45, 95% CI 1.67-3.99; P<.001); these variables proved to be significant in the test performance considered as a dependent variable (R(2)=0.62).

CONCLUSIONS

We found a significant prevalence of dysexecutive mild cognitive impairment, which was associated with cardiovascular risk factors. We recommend assessment and monitoring of cognitive performance for probable neurological complications after cardiac surgery.