Effects of an angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor, ramipril, on cardiovascular events in high-risk patients

Medical Management of Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a common type of atherosclerotic disease of the lower extremities associated with reduced quality of life and ambulatory capacity. Major adverse cardiovascular events and limb amputations are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in this population. Optimal medical therapy is therefore critical in these patients to prevent adverse events. Risk factor modifications, including blood pressure control and smoking cessation, in addition to antithrombotic agents, peripheral vasodilators, and supervised exercise therapy are key pillars of medical therapy. Revascularization procedures represent key touch points between patients and health care providers and serve as opportunities to optimize medical therapy and improve long-term patency rates and outcomes. This review summarizes the aspects of medical therapy that all providers should be familiar with when caring for patients with PAD in the peri-revascularization period.

Pathophysiology of cough with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors: How to explain within-class differences?

Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEi) have consistently demonstrated improved survival and reduced risk of major cardiovascular events, across the spectrum of cardiovascular disease, including hypertension, coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. The cardioprotective effects of ACEi result from inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, and inhibition of bradykinin degradation. They are generally well tolerated but may cause the onset of a dry cough in some patients. This review presents current evidence on the incidence and mechanisms of cough associated with ACEi use, and then considers how to manage ACEi-related cough in clinical practice. The incidence of ACEi-induced cough in the published literature varies widely due to heterogeneity in the source data and lack of adequate controls. Incidence also varies among individual ACEi with agents such as perindopril, which has a high tissue ACE affinity, associated with a lower rate of cough. Evidence from real-world studies shows that the incidence of ACEi-associated cough is lower than rates reported in clinical trials. Patients who experience any dry cough are often switched to angiotensin- receptor blockers or other classes of antihypertensive drugs, regardless of cough severity. To avoid inappropriate discontinuation of ACEi in clinical practice, an alternative approach in patients with persistent cough is to perform a challenge/re-challenge to determine if re-introduction of ACEi is associated with recurrence of symptoms. Incidence of cough should not be considered a class effect for ACEi, and the patient may benefit by a switch from one ACEi to another. Every effort should be made to enable patients to continue ACEi therapy to reduce adverse cardiovascular outcomes and improve survival.

Perioperative Renin-Angiotensin System Inhibitors Improve Major Outcomes of Heart Failure Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery: A Propensity-Adjusted Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to study the association of perioperative administration of renin angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi) and clinical outcomes of patients with heart failure (HF) undergoing cardiac surgery.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

It is controversial whether the perioperative RASi should be administered in HF patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

METHODS

A total of 2338 patients with HF and undergoing CABG and/or valve surgeries at multiple hospitals from 2001 to 2015 were identified from STS database. After adjustment using propensity score and instrumental variable, logistic regression was conducted to analyze the influence of preoperative continuation of RASi (PreRASi) on short-term in-hospital outcomes. Independent risk factors of 30-day mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and renal failure were analyzed by use of stepwise logistic regression. The effects of pre- and postoperative use of RASi (PostRASi) on long-term mortality were analyzed using survival analyses. Stepwise Cox regression was conducted to analyze the independent risk factors of 6-year mortality. The relationships of HF status and surgery type with perioperative RASi, as well as PreRASi-PostRASi, were also evaluated by subgroup analyses.

RESULTS

PreRASi was associated with lower incidences of 30-day mortality [ P < 0.0001, odds ratio (OR): 0.556, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.405-0.763], stroke ( P =0.035, OR: 0.585, 95% CI: 0.355-0.962), renal failure ( P =0.007, OR: 0.663, 95% CI: 0.493-0.894). Both PreRASi ( P =0.0137) and PostRASi ( P =0.007) reduced 6-year mortality compared with the No-RASi groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Pre- and postoperative use of RASi was associated with better outcomes for the patients who have HF and undergo CABG and/or valve surgeries. Preoperative continuation and postoperative restoration are warranted in these patients.

Outcomes in patients with cardiometabolic disease who develop hyperkalemia while treated with a renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitor

BACKGROUND

Many patients with indications for renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitor (RAASi) therapy are not receiving these medications. Concern about hyperkalemia is thought to contribute to this lack of evidence-based therapy.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study included adult patients in primary care practices affiliated with an integrated health care delivery system treated with RAASi between 2000 and 2019 for any of the following indications: (a) coronary artery disease (CAD); (b) heart failure (HF) with a left ventricle ejection fraction ≤ 40%; (c) diabetes mellitus (DM) with proteinuria; or (d) chronic kidney disease (CKD) with proteinuria. Relationship between hyperkalemia (K > 5.0 mEg/L) over the first 12 months of follow-up and a composite end point of cardiovascular events, renal dysfunction, and all-cause mortality was evaluated.

RESULTS

Among 82,732 study patients, 7,727 (9.34%) developed hyperkalemia. Patients with hyperkalemia were older (69.0 vs 64.6) and more likely to have CAD (57.8 vs 53.7%), CKD (57.3 vs 51.1%), HF (19.3 vs 9.7%), and DM (45.3 vs 33.3%) (P < .001 for all). Five-year cumulative risk of the primary outcome was higher in patients who did (63.9%; 95% CI: 62.8%-65.1%) versus did not (37.2%; 95% CI: 36.8%-37.6%) develop hyperkalemia. Five-year cumulative risk of ED visit or hospitalization for hyperkalemia was 15.6% (14.7%-16.6%) for patients with versus 2.7% (95% CI: 2.6-2.9) for patients without hyperkalemia, rising to 25.9% (95% CI: 22.4-29.9) for patients with severe (K > 6.0 mEq/dL) hyperkalemia. Patients who experienced hyperkalemia were more likely (34.4%) than patients who did not (29.2%) to deintensify RAASi therapy (P < .001). Five-year cumulative risk of the primary outcome was higher in patients who lowered RAASi dose (50.4%; 95% CI: 48.5%-52.4%) or stopped RAASi therapy completely (49.3%; 95% CI: 48.5%-50.1%), compared to patients who continued RAASi therapy (36.1%; 95% CI: 25.7-36.5). Similar findings were observed in multivariable analyses and for individual components of the primary outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperkalemia is a common complication of RAASi therapy and is associated with an increased risk of multiple adverse outcomes. Patients who have their RAASi medications deintensified after a hyperkalemic event have higher incidence of cardiovascular events, renal dysfunction and death.

Incident Stroke Events in Clinical Trials of Antihypertensive Drugs in Cardiovascular Disease Patients: A Network Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Antihypertensive drugs are commonly used in cardiovascular diseases (CVD), less is known about the comparative effectiveness of different antihypertensive drugs on stroke events in CVD patients. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and the Web of Science for randomized controlled trails comparing the different antihypertensive drugs for stroke events in CVD patients from inception until November, 2022. Pairwise and network meta-analysis were performed to compare of different antihypertensive drugs for the incidence of stroke events in CVD patients. The protocol was registered on the PROSPERO database (CRD42022375038). 33 trials involving 141,217 CVD patients were included. The incidence of stroke in CVD patients for each antihypertensive drugs was placebo (3.0%), ACEI (2.4%), ARB (4.1%), CCB (1.8%), β blocker (1.3%), and diuretic (3.6%). Antihypertensive drug was significantly reducing stroke events in CVD patients when compared with placebo (OR 0.82; 95% CI 0.75 to 0.89). Specifically, ACEI (OR 0.82; 95% CI, 0.69-0.97), ARB (OR 0.87; 95% CI, 0.77-0.98), CCB (OR 0.69; 95% CI, 0.54-to 0.87), and diuretic (OR 0.74; 95% CI, 0.57-0.95) were significantly reducing stroke events in CVD patients when compared with placebo. Network meta-analysis suggested CCB and diuretic ranked the first and second in reducing the incidence of stroke events in CVD patients with the SUCRA value of 90.9% and 73.8%. CCB and diuretic had the greatest possibility to reduce the incidence of stroke events in CVD patients, while, ACEI was the worst antihypertensive agents in reducing the incidence of stroke events in CVD patients.

Addressing global disparities in blood pressure control: perspectives of the International Society of Hypertension

Raised blood pressure (BP) is the leading cause of preventable death in the world. Yet, its global prevalence is increasing, and it remains poorly detected, treated, and controlled in both high- and low-resource settings. From the perspective of members of the International Society of Hypertension based in all regions, we reflect on the past, present, and future of hypertension care, highlighting key challenges and opportunities, which are often region-specific. We report that most countries failed to show sufficient improvements in BP control rates over the past three decades, with greater improvements mainly seen in some high-income countries, also reflected in substantial reductions in the burden of cardiovascular disease and deaths. Globally, there are significant inequities and disparities based on resources, sociodemographic environment, and race with subsequent disproportionate hypertension-related outcomes. Additional unique challenges in specific regions include conflict, wars, migration, unemployment, rapid urbanization, extremely limited funding, pollution, COVID-19-related restrictions and inequalities, obesity, and excessive salt and alcohol intake. Immediate action is needed to address suboptimal hypertension care and related disparities on a global scale. We propose a Global Hypertension Care Taskforce including multiple stakeholders and societies to identify and implement actions in reducing inequities, addressing social, commercial, and environmental determinants, and strengthening health systems implement a well-designed customized quality-of-care improvement framework.

Comparison of cardiocerebrovascular disease incidence between angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor and angiotensin receptor blocker users in a real-world cohort

BACKGROUND

Both angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are known to be effective in managing cardiovascular diseases, but more evidence supports the use of an ACEI. This study investigated the difference in cardiovascular disease incidence between relatively low-compliance ACEIs and high-compliance ARBs in the clinical setting.

METHODS

Patients who were first prescribed ACEIs or ARBs at two tertiary university hospitals in Korea were observed in this retrospective cohort study for the incidence of heart failure, angina, acute myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular disease, ischemic heart disease, and major adverse cardiovascular events for 5 years after the first prescription. Additionally, 5-year Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used based on the presence or absence of statins.

RESULTS

Overall, 2,945 and 9,189 patients were prescribed ACEIs and ARBs, respectively. When compared to ACEIs, the incidence of heart failure decreased by 52% in those taking ARBs (HR [95% CI] = 0.48 [0.39-0.60], P < 0.001), and the incidence of cerebrovascular disease increased by 62% (HR [95% CI] = 1.62 [1.26-2.07], P < 0.001). The incidence of ischemic heart disease (P = 0.223) and major adverse cardiovascular events (P = 0.374) did not differ significantly between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

ARBs were not inferior to ACEIs in relation to reducing the incidence of cardiocerebrovascular disease in the clinical setting; however, there were slight differences for each disease. The greatest strength of real-world evidence is that it allows the follow-up of specific drug use, including drug compliance. Large-scale studies on the effects of relatively low-compliance ACEIs and high-compliance ARBs on cardiocerebrovascular disease are warranted in the future.

Intravascular imaging assessment of pharmacotherapies targeting atherosclerosis: advantages and limitations in predicting their prognostic implications

Intravascular imaging has been often used over the recent years to examine the efficacy of emerging therapies targeting plaque evolution. Serial intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography, or near-infrared spectroscopy-intravascular ultrasound studies have allowed us to evaluate the effects of different therapies on plaque burden and morphology, providing unique mechanistic insights about the mode of action of these treatments. Plaque burden reduction, a decrease in necrotic core component or macrophage accumulation-which has been associated with inflammation-and an increase in fibrous cap thickness over fibroatheromas have been used as surrogate endpoints to assess the value of several drugs in inhibiting plaque evolution and improving clinical outcomes. However, some reports have demonstrated weak associations between the effects of novel treatments on coronary atheroma and composition and their prognostic implications. This review examines the value of invasive imaging in assessing pharmacotherapies targeting atherosclerosis. It summarizes the findings of serial intravascular imaging studies assessing the effects of different drugs on atheroma burden and morphology and compares them with the results of large-scale trials evaluating their impact on clinical outcome. Furthermore, it highlights the limited efficacy of established intravascular imaging surrogate endpoints in predicting the prognostic value of these pharmacotherapies and introduces alternative imaging endpoints based on multimodality/hybrid intravascular imaging that may enable more accurate assessment of the athero-protective and prognostic effects of emerging therapies.

Renin-Angiotensin System Inhibitors and Major Cardiovascular Events after Sepsis

Rationale: Adult sepsis survivors have an increased risk of experiencing long-term cardiovascular events. Objectives: To determine whether the cardiovascular risk after sepsis is mitigated by renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi). Methods: We conducted a population-based cohort study of adult sepsis survivors designed to emulate a target randomized trial with an active comparator and new-user design. We excluded patients with a first-line indication for prescription of RASi (e.g., coronary heart disease, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and hypertension with diabetes mellitus). The main exposure of interest was a new prescription of a RASi within 30 days of hospital discharge. The active comparator was a new prescription of either a calcium channel blocker or a thiazide diuretic, also within 30 days of hospital discharge. The primary outcome of interest was the composite of myocardial infarction, stroke, and all-cause mortality during follow-up to 5 years. We used inverse probability weighting of a Cox proportional hazards model and reported results using hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals. Results: The cohort included 7,174 adult sepsis survivors, of whom 3,805 were new users of a RASi and 3,369 were new users of a calcium channel blocker or a thiazide diuretic. New users of a RASi experienced a lower hazard of major cardiovascular events than new users of a calcium channel blocker or a thiazide diuretic (hazard ratio, 0.93; 95% confidence interval, 0.87-0.99). This association was consistent across different follow-up intervals and multiple sensitivity analyses. Conclusions: A new RASi prescription is associated with a reduction in major cardiovascular events after sepsis. A randomized controlled trial should be considered to confirm this finding.

Treatment of hypertriglyceridaemia with icosapent ethyl in patients with high/very high cardiovascular risk. Consensus document of the Sociedad Española de Cardiología [Spanish Society of Cardiology] and the Sociedad Española de Diabetes [Spanish Diabetes Society]

The Working Groups of Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy of the Sociedad Española de Cardiología and Cardiovascular Disease of the Sociedad Española de Diabetes have prepared a consensus document on the treatment of hypertriglyceridaemia in patients with high/very-high-cardiovascular risk with icosapent ethyl, a highly purified and stable eicosapentaenoic acid ethyl ester. This document is necessary since there are differences among the three main omega-3 fatty acids and there is large-scale clinical evidence with icosapent ethyl that demonstrates that in addition to its efficacy in lowering triglyceridaemia, it reduces the risk of cardiovascular events in both patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and in those with type 2 diabetes, with a good safety profile. The number needed to treat to avoid a major cardiovascular event is analysed, comparing it with other pivotal studies of pharmacological intervention in cardiovascular prevention, and an estimate of the Spanish population likely to be treated with ethyl icosapent is carried out. These recommendations are of interest to all clinicians who manage patients with lipid metabolism disorders, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Association of Long-term Change in N-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide With Incident Heart Failure and Death

Importance

Most studies, especially in primary prevention patients, have evaluated N-terminal B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) at one time point. Evaluation of change in NT-proBNP may improve risk stratification for incident cardiovascular events.

Objective

To assess the association between change in NT-proBNP and risk for incident heart failure (HF) and death.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Participants were recruited from 4 US communities enrolled in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Community (ARIC) study. Individuals who attended ARIC visits 2 and 4 (approximately 6 years apart) with measurements of NT-proBNP and without prevalent HF were included. Assays of NT-proBNP were conducted between 2011 and 2013, and analysis took place between July 2021 and October 2022.

Exposures

The primary exposure variable was NT-proBNP change between visits 2 and 4, modeled as change categories (<125 pg/mL or ≥125 pg/mL) and as percent change.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome measures were incident HF hospitalization and all-cause death. The association between changes in cardiovascular risk factors with change in NT-proBNP was further assessed.

Results

A total of 9776 individuals (mean [SD] age, 57.1 [5.7] years at visit 2; 5523 [56.5%] women) were included in the study. Compared with participants with NT-proBNP level less than 125 pg/mL at both visits, participants with NT-proBNP level of 125 pg/mL or higher at both visits had an increase in incident HF (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 2.40 [95% CI, 2.00-2.88]) and mortality risk (HR, 1.68 [95% CI, 1.47-1.91). Participants with NT-proBNP levels of 125 pg/mL or higher at visit 2 and less than 125 pg/mL at visit 4 had similar risk for HF and death (HR, 1.01 [95% CI, 0.71-1.43]; HR, 0.79 [95% CI, 0.61-1.01]) compared with the group with NT-proBNP levels of less than 125 pg/mL at both visits. The percent change in NT-proBNP was positively associated with HF and death (HR, 1.06 [95% CI, 1.02-1.10]; HR, 1.05 [95% CI, 1.03-1.08] per 1-SD increase, respectively). Change in systolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride level, body mass index, and estimated glomerular filtration rate were significantly associated with change in NT-proBNP.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, 6-year change in NT-proBNP reflected dynamic change in risk for HF events and death among community-dwelling adults without prevalent clinical HF. These results support the utility of serial NT-proBNP measurements to improve risk stratification of patients with pre-HF.

Toward Precision Medicine: Circadian Rhythm of Blood Pressure and Chronotherapy for Hypertension - 2021 NHLBI Workshop Report

Healthy individuals exhibit blood pressure variation over a 24-hour period with higher blood pressure during wakefulness and lower blood pressure during sleep. Loss or disruption of the blood pressure circadian rhythm has been linked to adverse health outcomes, for example, cardiovascular disease, dementia, and chronic kidney disease. However, the current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches lack sufficient attention to the circadian rhythmicity of blood pressure. Sleep patterns, hormone release, eating habits, digestion, body temperature, renal and cardiovascular function, and other important host functions as well as gut microbiota exhibit circadian rhythms, and influence circadian rhythms of blood pressure. Potential benefits of nonpharmacologic interventions such as meal timing, and pharmacologic chronotherapeutic interventions, such as the bedtime administration of antihypertensive medications, have recently been suggested in some studies. However, the mechanisms underlying circadian rhythm-mediated blood pressure regulation and the efficacy of chronotherapy in hypertension remain unclear. This review summarizes the results of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute workshop convened on October 27 to 29, 2021 to assess knowledge gaps and research opportunities in the study of circadian rhythm of blood pressure and chronotherapy for hypertension.

The impact of angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors versus angiotensin receptor blockers on 3-year clinical outcomes in elderly (≥ 65) patients with acute myocardial infarction without hypertension

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the impact of angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) and angiotensin II type 1 receptor blockers (ARB) on 3-year clinical outcomes in elderly (≥ 65) acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients without a history of hypertension who underwent successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug-eluting stents (DES).

METHODS

A total of 13,104 AMI patients who were registered in the Korea AMI registry (KAMIR)-National Institutes of Health (NIH) were included in the study. The primary endpoint was 3-year major adverse cardiac events (MACE), which was defined as the composite of all-cause death, recurrent myocardial infarction (MI), and any repeat revascularization. To adjust baseline potential confounders, an inverse probability weighting (IPTW) analysis was performed.

RESULTS

The patients were divided into two groups: the ACEI group, n = 872 patients and the ARB group, n = 508 patients. After IPTW matching, baseline characteristics were balanced. During the 3-year clinical follow-up, the incidence of MACE was not different between the two groups. However, incidence of stroke (hazard ratio [HR], 0.375; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.166-0.846; p = 0.018) and re-hospitalization due to heart failure (HF) (HR, 0.528; 95% CI, 0.289-0.965; p = 0.038) in the ACEI group were significantly lower than in the ARB group.

CONCLUSION

In elderly AMI patients who underwent PCI with DES without a history of hypertension, the use of ACEI was significantly associated with reduced incidences of stroke, and re-hospitalization due to HF than those with the use of ARB.

Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy and Long-Term Mortality and Amputation Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Peripheral Vascular Interventions

BACKGROUND

Lack of guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) in patients undergoing peripheral vascular interventions (PVIs) may increase mortality and amputation risk.

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to study the association between GDMT and mortality/amputation and to examine GDMT variability among providers and health systems.

METHODS

We performed an observational study using patients in the Vascular Quality Initiative registry undergoing PVI between 2017 and 2018. Two-year all-cause mortality and major amputation data were derived from Medicare claims data. Compliance with GDMT was defined as receiving a statin, antiplatelet therapy, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker if hypertensive. Propensity 1:1 matching was applied for GDMT vs no GDMT and survival analyses were performed to compare outcomes between groups.

RESULTS

Of 15,891 patients undergoing PVIs, 48.8% received GDMT and 6,120 patients in each group were matched. Median follow-up was 9.6 (IQR: 4.5-16.2) months for mortality and 8.4 (IQR: 3.5-15.4) for amputation. Mean age was 72.0 ± 9.9 years. Mortality risk was higher among patients who did not receive GDMT versus those on GDMT (31.2% vs 24.5%; HR: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.25-1.50; P < 0.001), as well as, risk of amputation (16.0% vs 13.2%; HR: 1.20; 95% CI: 1.08-1.35; P < 0.001). GDMT rates across sites and providers ranging from 0% to 100%, with lower performance translating into higher risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Almost one-half of the patients receiving PVI in this national quality registry were not on GDMT, and this was associated with increased risk of mortality and major amputation. Quality improvement efforts in vascular care should focus on GDMT in patients undergoing PVI.

Oral combined hydrochlorothiazide and lisinopril vs nifedipine for postpartum hypertension: a comparative-effectiveness pilot randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and diuretics may be underutilized for postpartum hypertension because of their teratogenicity during pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated whether combined oral hydrochlorothiazide and lisinopril therapy produced superior short-term blood pressure control when compared with nifedipine among postpartum individuals with hypertension requiring pharmacologic treatment.

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a pilot randomized controlled trial (October 2021 to June 2022) that included individuals with chronic hypertension or hypertensive disorders of pregnancy with 2 systolic blood pressure measurements ≥150 mm Hg and/or diastolic blood pressure measurements ≥100 mm Hg within 72 hours after delivery. Participants were randomized to receive either combined hydrochlorothiazide and lisinopril therapy or nifedipine therapy after stratifying the participants by diagnosis (chronic hypertension vs hypertensive disorders of pregnancy). The primary outcome was stage 2 hypertension (systolic blood pressure ≥140 mm Hg and/or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mm Hg) determined using a home blood pressure monitor on days 7 to 10 after delivery or at readmission to the hospital for blood pressure control. The secondary outcomes included severe maternal morbidity (any of the following: intensive care unit admission; hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet count syndrome; eclampsia; stroke; cardiomyopathy; or maternal death), need for intravenous medications after randomization, hospital length of stay, blood pressure during first clinic visit, medication compliance, and adverse events. A pilot trial with 70 individuals was planned given the limited available data on combined hydrochlorothiazide and lisinopril therapy use in postpartum care. We calculated relative risks and 95% credible intervals in an intention-to-treat analysis. Finally, we conducted a preplanned Bayesian analysis to estimate the probability of benefit or harm with a neutral informative prior.

RESULTS

Of 111 eligible individuals, 70 (63%) agreed and were randomized (31 in the hydrochlorothiazide and lisinopril group and 36 in the nifedipine group; 3 withdrew consent after randomization), and the characteristics were similar at baseline between the groups. The primary outcome was unavailable for 9 (12.8%) participants. The primary outcome occurred in 27% of participants in the hydrochlorothiazide and lisinopril group and in 43% of the participants in the nifedipine group (posterior adjusted relative risk, 0.74; 95% credible interval, 0.40-1.31). Bayesian analysis indicated an 85% posterior probability of a reduction in the primary outcome with combined hydrochlorothiazide and lisinopril therapy relative to nifedipine treatment. No differences were noted in the secondary outcomes or adverse medication events.

CONCLUSION

The results of the pilot trial suggest a high probability that combined hydrochlorothiazide and lisinopril therapy produces superior short-term BP control when compared with nifedipine. These findings should be confirmed in a larger trial.

Vaccines and cardiovascular outcomes: lessons learned from influenza epidemics

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the world and is largely preventable. An increasing amount of evidence suggests that annual influenza vaccination reduces CVD-related morbidity and mortality. Despite various clinical guidelines recommending annual influenza vaccination for the general population for influenza-like illness risk reduction, with a particular emphasis on people with CVD, vaccination rates fall consistently below the goal established by the World Health Organization. This review outlines the importance of influenza vaccination, mechanisms of cardiovascular events in influenza, summarizing the available literature on the effects of influenza vaccine in CVD and the benefits of influenza vaccine during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A reference-free R-learner for treatment recommendation

Assigning optimal treatments to individual patients based on their characteristics is the ultimate goal of precision medicine. Deriving evidence-based recommendations from observational data while considering the causal treatment effects and patient heterogeneity is a challenging task, especially in situations of multiple treatment options. Herein, we propose a reference-free R-learner based on a simplex algorithm for treatment recommendation. We showed through extensive simulation that the proposed method produced accurate recommendations that corresponded to optimal treatment outcomes, regardless of the reference group. We used the method to analyze data from the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) and achieved recommendations consistent with the current clinical guidelines.

Premorbid Use of Beta-Blockers or Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors/Angiotensin Receptor Blockers in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke

This study was designed to investigate the impact of the preexisting use of beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) on the cellular immune response in peripheral blood and the clinical outcomes of patients with acute ischemic stroke. We retrospectively collected clinical data from a cohort of 69 patients with premorbid beta-blockers and 56 patients with premorbid ACEIs/ARBs. Additionally, we selected a cohort of 107 patients with acute ischemic stroke to be the control of the same age and sex. We analyzed cellular immune parameters in peripheral blood 1 day after the appearance of symptoms, including the frequencies of circulating white blood cell subpopulations, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR). We found that the count of lymphocytes and the lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio were significantly higher in the peripheral blood of patients treated with beta-blockers before stroke than in matched controls. However, the premorbid use of ACEIs/ARBs did not considerably impact the circulating immune parameters listed above in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Furthermore, we found that premorbid use of beta-blockers or ACEIs/ARBs did not significantly change functional outcomes in patients 3 months after the onset of stroke. These results suggest that premorbid use of beta-blockers, but not ACEIs/ARBs, reversed lymphopenia associated with acute ischemic stroke. As cellular immune changes in peripheral blood could be an independent predictor of stroke prognosis, more large-scale studies are warranted to further verify the impact of premorbid use of beta-blockers or ACEIs/ARBs on the prognosis of patients with ischemic stroke. Our research is beneficial to understanding the mechanism of the systemic immune response induced by stroke and has the potential for a therapeutic strategy in stroke interventions and treatment.

The Effects of Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibition on Major Coronary Events in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction: Insights From the PARADISE-MI Trial

BACKGROUND

In patients who survive an acute myocardial infarction (AMI), angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors decrease the risk of subsequent major cardiovascular events. Whether angiotensin-receptor blockade and neprilysin inhibition with sacubitril/valsartan reduce major coronary events more effectively than angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in high-risk patients with recent AMI remains unknown. We aimed to compare the effects of sacubitril/valsartan on coronary outcomes in patients with AMI.

METHODS

We conducted a prespecified analysis of the PARADISE-MI trial (Prospective ARNI vs ACE Inhibitors Trial to Determine Superiority in Reducing Heart Failure Events After MI), which compared sacubitril/valsartan (97/103 mg twice daily) with ramipril (5 mg twice daily) for reducing heart failure events after myocardial infarction in 5661 patients with AMI complicated by left ventricular systolic dysfunction, pulmonary congestion, or both. In the present analysis, the prespecified composite coronary outcome was the first occurrence of death from coronary heart disease, nonfatal myocardial infarction, hospitalization for angina, or postrandomization coronary revascularization.

RESULTS

Patients were randomly assigned at a median of 4.4 [3.0-5.8] days after index AMI (ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction 76%, non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction 24%), by which time 89% of patients had undergone coronary reperfusion. Compared with ramipril, sacubitril/valsartan decreased the risk of coronary outcomes (hazard ratio, 0.86 [95% CI, 0.74-0.99], P=0.04) over a median follow-up of 22 months. Rates of the components of the composite outcomes were lower in patients on sacubitril/valsartan but were not individually significantly different.

CONCLUSIONS

In survivors of an AMI with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and pulmonary congestion, sacubitril/valsartan-compared with ramipril-reduced the risk of a prespecified major coronary composite outcome. Dedicated studies are necessary to confirm this finding and elucidate its mechanism.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov; Unique identifier: NCT02924727.

Use of point-of-care ultrasound by internists to rapidly diagnose acute decompensated heart failure

Dyspnea is a common presenting complaint seen by hospitalists. The differential is broad, including life-threatening and less urgent etiologies. We report a 43-year-old male presenting to an inpatient medicine service with dyspnea in the setting of asthma, tobacco and occupational exposures, and no prior cardiac history. Use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) immediately confirmed diagnosis of acute decompensated heart failure, allowing prompt decision making and care. Use of POCUS is widespread among emergency physicians and intensivists; however, use among medical students, internal medicine residents, and hospitalists remains variable. Increased use of POCUS by hospitalists may increase speed and accuracy of diagnosis.

Associations of short- and long-term mortality with admission blood pressure in Chinese patients with different heart failure subtypes

It remains unknown whether systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) pressure on admission are associated with short- and long-term mortality in Chinese patients with heart failure with preserved (HFpEF), mildly reduced (HFmrEF), and reduced (HFrEF) ejection fraction. In 2706 HF patients (39.1% women; mean age, 68.8 years), we assessed the risk of 30-day, 1-year, and long-term (> 1 year) mortality with 1-SD increment in SBP and DBP, using multivariable logistic and Cox regression, respectively. During a median follow-up of 4.1 years, 1341 patients died. The 30-day, 1-year, and long-term mortality were 3.5%, 16.7%, and 39.4%, respectively. In multivariable-adjusted analyses additionally accounted for DBP or SBP, a higher SBP conferred a higher risk of long-term mortality (hazard ratio, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.02-1.22; p = .017) and a lower DBP was associated with a higher risk of all types of mortality (p ≤ .011) in all HF patients. Independent of potential confounders including DBP or SBP, in patients with HFpEF, higher SBP and lower DBP levels predicted a higher risk of long-term mortality with hazard ratios amounting to 1.16 (95% CI, 1.04-1.29; p = .007) and .89 (95% CI, .80-.99; p = .028), respectively. In patients with HFmrEF and HFrEF, irrespective of adjustments of potential confounders, DBP was associated with 1-year mortality with odds ratios ranging from .49 to .62 (p ≤ .006). In conclusion, lower DBP and higher SBP levels on admission were associated with a higher risk of different types of all-cause mortality in Chinese patients with different HF subtypes. Our observations highlight that admission BP may help to improve risk stratification.

Timed-averaged blood pressure showed a J-curve association with stroke in elderly chronic kidney disease patients

BACKGROUND

The risk factors for stroke in elderly patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are not well understood. This study aimed to explore the influence of systolic blood pressure (SBP) on the risk of stroke in a large cohort of elderly patients with stage 3-5 CKD.

METHODS

We retrospectively identified 665 patients hospitalized in Beijing Friendship Hospital from January 2000 to December 2021. Patients were followed up until the occurrence of stroke or death. Multivariate logistic regression analysis and Cox proportional hazard models were used to analyze the risk factors for stroke according to the presence or absence of CKD. The association between CKD and stroke was further evaluated regarding the role of SBP in the hypertensive population.

RESULTS

In individuals with CKD, a J-shaped relationship was observed between SBP levels and the risk of stroke. Participants with CKD and an SBP less than 125 mmHg had a significantly higher cumulative stroke survival rate than those whose SBP was between 125 and 139 mmHg. The cumulative stroke survival rate increased progressively for those with SBP higher than 140 mmHg. This J-shaped relationship was not found in patients without CKD.

CONCLUSION

In elderly patients with CKD, those with the lowest BP are at increased risk for incident stroke. This phenomenon could be different from that in the general population.

Does the Naked Emperor Parable Apply to Current Perceptions of the Contribution of Renin Angiotensin System Inhibition in Hypertension?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To address contemporary hypertension challenges, a critical reexamination of therapeutic accomplishments using angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers, and a greater appreciation of evidence-based shortcomings from randomized clinical trials are fundamental in accelerating future progress.

RECENT FINDINGS

Medications targeting angiotensin II mechanism of action are essential for managing primary hypertension, type 2 diabetes, heart failure, and chronic kidney disease. While the ability of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers to control blood pressure is undisputed, practitioners, hypertension specialists, and researchers hold low awareness of these drugs' limitations in preventing or reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. Biases in interpreting gained knowledge from data obtained in randomized clinical trials include a pervasive emphasis on using relative risk reduction over absolute risk reduction. Furthermore, recommendations for clinical practice in international hypertension guidelines fail to address the significance of a residual risk several orders of magnitude greater than the benefits. We analyze the limitations of the clinical trials that have led to current recommended treatment guidelines. We define and quantify the magnitude of the residual risk in published hypertension trials and explore how activation of alternate compensatory bioprocessing components within the renin angiotensin system bypass the ability of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers to achieve a significant reduction in total and cardiovascular deaths. We complete this presentation by outlining the current incipient but promising potential of immunotherapy to block angiotensin II pathology alone or possibly in combination with other antihypertensive drugs. A full appreciation of the magnitude of the residual risk associated with current renin angiotensin system-based therapies constitutes a vital underpinning for seeking new molecular approaches to halt or even reverse the cardiovascular complications of primary hypertension and encourage investigating a new generation of ACE inhibitors and ARBs with increased capacity to reach the intracellular compartments at which Ang II can be generated.

Angina in 2022: Current Perspectives

Angina is the main symptom of ischemic heart disease; mirroring a mismatch between oxygen supply and demand. Epicardial coronary stenoses are only responsible for nearly half of the patients presenting with angina; whereas in several cases; symptoms may underlie coronary vasomotor disorders; such as microvascular dysfunction or epicardial spasm. Various medications have been proven to improve the prognosis and quality of life; representing the treatment of choice in stable angina and leaving revascularization only in particular coronary anatomies or poorly controlled symptoms despite optimal medical therapy. Antianginal medications aim to reduce the oxygen supply-demand mismatch and are generally effective in improving symptoms; quality of life; effort tolerance and time to ischemia onset and may improve prognosis in selected populations. Since antianginal medications have different mechanisms of action and side effects; their use should be tailored according to patient history and potential drug-drug interactions. Angina with non-obstructed coronary arteries patients should be phenotyped with invasive assessment and treated accordingly. Patients with refractory angina represent a higher-risk population in which some therapeutic options are available to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life; but robust data from large randomized controlled trials are still lacking.

Left main coronary disease: evolving management concepts

Remarkable advances in the management of coronary artery disease have enhanced our approach to left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease. The traditional role of coronary artery bypass graft surgery has been challenged by the less invasive percutaneous coronary interventional approach. Additionally, major strides in optimal medical therapy now provide a rich menu of treatment choices in selected circumstances. Although a LMCA stenosis >70% is an acceptable threshold for revascularization, those patients with a LMCA narrowing between 40 and 69% present a more complex scenario. This review examines the relative merits of the different treatment options, addresses key diagnostic and therapeutic unknowns, and identifies future work likely to advance progress.

Hypertension management in patients with cardiovascular comorbidities

Arterial hypertension is a leading cause of death globally. Due to ageing, the rising incidence of obesity, and socioeconomic and environmental changes, its incidence increases worldwide. Hypertension commonly coexists with Type 2 diabetes, obesity, dyslipidaemia, sedentary lifestyle, and smoking leading to risk amplification. Blood pressure lowering by lifestyle modifications and antihypertensive drugs reduce cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality. Guidelines recommend dual- and triple-combination therapies using renin–angiotensin system blockers, calcium channel blockers, and/or a diuretic. Comorbidities often complicate management. New drugs such as angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors, sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists improve CV and renal outcomes. Catheter-based renal denervation could offer an alternative treatment option in comorbid hypertension associated with increased sympathetic nerve activity. This review summarises the latest clinical evidence for managing hypertension with CV comorbidities.

Closing gaps in medication taking for secondary prevention of coronary heart disease patients among US adults

Background

The secondary preventive medical remedies used in the U.S. general population, particularly those with numerous co-morbidities, are poorly understood. We aimed to assess health outcomes and the extent of their adherence to guideline-based secondary prevention medications among U.S. coronary heart disease (CHD) patients.

Methods

We analysed information from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999 to 2018 on people in the United States aged 18 to 85 who had a personal history of coronary heart disease (CHD). Logistic regression analyses were used to identify characteristics related to healthcare access that were linked with not taking any indicated drugs among CHD and other co-morbidity patients in the U.S.

Results

We gathered 4256 CHD patients aged 18 and above. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers (ACEIs/ARBs), statins, and antiplatelet medications were taken by 50.94%, 48.26%, 53.41 %, and 19.78% of the population, respectively. Surprising, not received recommended drugs was reached up to 21.12%, and taking all four drugs was only 7.64%. In conclusion, the logistic regression analysis revealed that the chance of not taking prescribed drugs increased with age (18–39), race (Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Black), low income, lack of insurance, and the absence of co-morbidities (hypertension, heart failure, and diabetes mellitus).

Conclusions

The gap between the proposed secondary preventative measures and their actual execution remains sizable. In order to achieve ‘Healthy Aging’, a systematic approach for prevention of CHD is urgently needed.

Update on trials examining effects of night-time blood pressure lowering drug treatment on prevention of cardiovascular disease

Current evidence on benefits of night-time blood pressure (BP) lowering drug treatment on cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention attributable to the Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring in the Prediction of Cardiovascular Events and Effects of Chronotherapy (MAPEC) trial and Bedtime hypertension treatment improves cardiovascular risk reduction (Hygia) trials has raised concern on their validity and methodology. In this commentary, the authors have updated the progress of the ongoing trials that were planned to examine the effect of night-time BP lowering drug treatment on CVD prevention. As compared to MAPEC and Hygia trials, three pragmatic trials the Blood Pressure Medication Timing (BPMedtime) trial (US), the Treatment In Morning versus Evening (TIME) trial (UK), Bedmed and Bedmed-frail (Canada) were planned without ambulatory BP monitoring. The BPMedtime trial was stopped after the pilot phase due to underestimated sample size and insufficient funds. TIME trial (UK) had a similar issue when changing the sample size from 10,269 to more than 20,000 participants. The TIME trial was completed and the initial results showing that protection against heart attack, stroke and vascular death is not affected by whether antihypertensive medications are taken in the morning or evening. The full study of the TIME trial is published in December 2022. Bedmed and Bedmed-frail trials are ongoing and will be completed in 2023. Time of taking BP lowering drug should be determined by patients at their convenience to improve the adherence. There was no difference in adverse effects of taking BP lowering drugs at night or morning. Evidence on the effect of night-time treatment on CVD events is inconsistent. The results from ongoing trials in Canada will contribute evidence to the use of BP lowering drug treatment for the prevention of CVD.

Association of the medical therapy with beta-blockers or inhibitors of renin-angiotensin system with clinical outcomes in patients with mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction after acute myocardial infarction

In the era of the initial optimal interventional and medical therapy for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), a number of patients with mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) (41%-49%) have been increasing. This observational study aimed to investigate the association between the medical therapy with oral beta-blockers or inhibitors of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and 2-year clinical outcomes in patients with mildly reduced EF after AMI. Among patients enrolled in the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry-National Institute of Health, propensity-score matched patients who survived the initial attack and had mildly reduced EF were selected according to beta-blocker or RAS inhibitor therapy at discharge. Beta-blocker therapy at discharge was associated with lower 2-year major adverse cardiac events which was a composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, revascularization and re-hospitalization due to heart failure (8.7 vs 12.8/100 patient-years; hazard ratio [HR] 0.68; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.50-0.93; P = .015), and no significant interaction between EF ≤ 45% and > 45% was observed (Pinteraction = 0.354). This association was mainly driven by lower myocardial infarction in patients with beta-blockers (HR 0.50; 95% CI 0.26-0.95; P = .035). Inhibitors of RAS at discharge were associated with lower re-hospitalization due to heart failure (1.8 vs 3.5/100 patient-years; HR 0.53; 95% CI 0.33-0.86; P = .010) without a significant interaction between EF ≤ 45% and > 45% (Pinteraction = 0.333). In patients with mildly reduced EF after AMI, the medical therapy with beta-blockers or RAS inhibitors at discharge was associated with better 2-year clinical outcomes.

Benefits and risks of antihypertensive medication in adults with different systolic blood pressure: A meta-analysis from the perspective of the number needed to treat

Background

The blood pressure (BP) threshold for initial pharmacological treatment remains controversial. The number needed to treat (NNT) is a significant indicator. This study aimed to explore the benefits and risks of antihypertensive medications in participants with different systolic BPs (SBPs), and cardiovascular disease status from the perspective of the NNT.

Methods

We conducted a meta-analysis of 52 randomized placebo-controlled trials. The data were extracted from published articles and pooled to calculate NNTs. The participants were divided into five groups, based on the mean SBP at entry (120–129.9, 130–139.9, 140–159.9, 160–179.9, and ≥180 mmHg). Furthermore, we stratified patients into those with and without cardiovascular disease. The primary outcomes were the major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), and adverse events (AEs) leading to discontinuation.

Results

Antihypertensive medications were not associated with MACEs, however, it increased AEs, when the SBP was <140 mmHg. For participants with cardiovascular disease or at a high risk of heart failure and stroke, antihypertensive treatment reduced MACEs when SBP was ≥130 mmHg. Despite this, only 2–4 subjects had reduced MACEs per 100 patients receiving antihypertensive medications for 3.50 years. The number of individuals who needed to treat to avoid MACEs declined with an increased cardiovascular risk.

Conclusion

Pharmacological treatment could be activated when SBP reaches 140 mmHg. For people with cardiovascular disease or at a higher risk of stroke and heart failure, 130 mmHg may be a better therapeutic threshold. It could be more cost-effective to prioritize antihypertensive medications for people with a high risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Differential Sex-Specific Effects of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibition and Angiotensin Receptor Blocker Therapy on Arterial Function in Hypertension: CALIBREX Trial

BACKGROUND

Increased arterial stiffness is associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. We studied the sex-specific impact of angiotensin antagonists on vascular function in hypertension with the hypothesis that their effects on arterial stiffness may be variable in men and women.

METHODS

In 141 hypertensive participants with mild cognitive impairment (age 65.9±7.7, 57% female), candesartan (up to 32 mg, n=77) or lisinopril (up to 40 mg, n=64) were administered to achieve blood pressure <140/90 mm Hg. Pulse wave velocity, central pulse pressure, and central augmentation index were measured using applanation tonometry (SphygmoCor, Australia). Multivariate linear regression and mixed model analyses were performed using intention-to-treat and per protocol analyses for those completing the study.

RESULTS

Blood pressure reduction was similar among candesartan and lisinopril groups. Compared with candesartan, lisinopril therapy resulted in lower pulse wave velocity (0.5±0.8 versus -0.7±0.4 m/s, respectively; P=0.003) and central pulse pressure (-1±3 versus -7±4 mm Hg; P=0.03) after 1 year. There was a significant interaction by sex whereby the improvements in pulse wave velocity and central pulse pressure with lisinopril compared with candesartan were only observed in women. In contrast, there was greater improvement in augmentation index with candesartan compared with lisinopril (-4±7% versus -1.5±8%; P=0.05), with no sex differences.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite equipotent antihypertensive effects, lisinopril was more effective than candesartan at lowering arterial stiffness in women. In contrast, candesartan was more effective than lisinopril in improving pulse wave reflections in both sexes. These findings demonstrate differential sex-specific effects of renin-angiotensin system antagonists on arterial function in hypertension that may contribute to long-term cardiovascular and neurocognitive outcomes in this population.

Angiotensinogen Suppression: A New Tool to Treat Cardiovascular and Renal Disease

Multiple types of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) blockers exist, allowing interference with the system at the level of renin, angiotensin-converting enzyme, or the angiotensin II receptor. Yet, in particular, for the treatment of hypertension, the number of patients with uncontrolled hypertension continues to rise, either due to patient noncompliance or because of the significant renin rises that may, at least partially, overcome the effect of RAS blockade (RAS escape). New approaches to target the RAS are either direct antisense oligonucleotides that inhibit angiotensinogen RNA translation, or small interfering RNA (siRNA) that function via the RNA interference pathway. Since all angiotensins stem from angiotensinogen, lowering angiotensinogen has the potential to circumvent the RAS escape phenomenon. Moreover, antisense oligonucleotides and small interfering RNA require injections only every few weeks to months, which might reduce noncompliance. Of course, angiotensinogen suppression also poses a threat in situations where the RAS is acutely needed, for instance in women becoming pregnant during treatment, or in cases of emergency, when severe hypotension occurs. This review discusses all preclinical data on angiotensinogen suppression, as well as the limited clinical data that are currently available. It concludes that it is an exciting new tool to target the RAS with high specificity and a low side effect profile. Its long-term action might revolutionize pharmacotherapy, as it could overcome compliance problems. Preclinical and clinical programs are now carefully investigating its efficacy and safety profile, allowing an optimal introduction as a novel drug to treat cardiovascular and renal diseases in due time.

Diagnosis 101: diabetic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) attributed to diabetes occurs in 20%-40% of patients with diabetes mellitus. Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is recognized as the most common cause of end-stage kidney disease in the USA and most Western countries. For quite some time, it has been recognized that treatments based on inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) can reduce the rates of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with DKD. Recently however, several novel agents, namely sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors, dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, were demonstrated to not only improve glycemic control but also to improve cardiovascular and renal outcomes. Another agent, a nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid antagonist, has also been shown to have cardiorenal benefits in patients with DKD. With such new developments, one would expect that it would eventually translate into further slowing CKD progression in the DKD population, provided that patients are diagnosed appropriately and in a timely manner. In this study, the authors attempt to investigate real-world data, looking at how well providers are establishing the diagnosis of DKD and its potential implications.

Effects of elevated systolic blood pressure on ischemic heart disease: a Burden of Proof study

High systolic blood pressure (SBP) is a major risk factor for ischemic heart disease (IHD), the leading cause of death worldwide. Using data from published observational studies and controlled trials, we estimated the mean SBP-IHD dose-response function and burden of proof risk function (BPRF), and we calculated a risk outcome score (ROS) and corresponding star rating (one to five). We found a very strong, significant harmful effect of SBP on IHD, with a mean risk-relative to that at 100 mm Hg SBP-of 1.39 (95% uncertainty interval including between-study heterogeneity 1.34-1.44) at 120 mm Hg, 1.81 (1.70-1.93) at 130 mm Hg and 4.48 (3.81-5.26) at 165 mm Hg. The conservative BPRF measure indicated that SBP exposure between 107.5 and 165.0 mm Hg raised risk by 101.36% on average, yielding a ROS of 0.70 and star rating of five. Our analysis shows that IHD risk was already increasing at 120 mm Hg SBP, rising steadily up to 165 mm Hg and increasing less steeply above that point. Our study endorses the need to prioritize and strengthen strategies for screening, to raise awareness of the need for timely diagnosis and treatment of hypertension and to increase the resources allocated for understanding primordial prevention of elevated blood pressure.

Ramipril Improves Endothelial Function and Increases the Number of Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Patients With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Endothelial dysfunction and reduced number of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in peripheral blood are contributing factors to cardiovascular disease in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Endothelial progenitor cell proliferation is regulated by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors reduce cardiovascular mortality in patients with coronary heart disease.

METHODS

This was a randomized trial including 37 female SLE patients without cardiovascular risk factors allocated into 2 groups: 19 patients received ramipril 10 mg/d for 12 weeks (IG) and 18 patients maintained without ramipril (CG). Endothelial function was assessed by brachial artery ultrasound measuring flow-mediated dilation, and EPCs were quantified by flow cytometry and cell culture, at baseline and after 12 weeks. Serum VEGF levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Statistical analysis was intention to treat. p < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

After 12 weeks, higher flow-mediated dilation (6.17% vs. 11.14%, p < 0.001) was observed in IG, without change in CG (5.37% vs. 5.02%, p = 0.630). Higher number of EPC colony-forming units was also observed in IG (21.3 ± 10.4 vs. 31.6 ± 8.5, p < 0.001), without difference in CG ( p = 0.714). No difference was found in EPCs evaluated by flow cytometry. Vascular endothelial growth factor level increased after 12 weeks in IG ( p = 0.048), with no difference in CG ( p = 0.661).

CONCLUSION

Ramipril improved endothelial function and increased the numbers of EPCs evaluated by cell culture and VEGF levels in SLE patients without cardiovascular risk factors. These data suggest that angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor bring an extra benefit beyond the hypotensive action and should be considered as a preferred antihypertensive drug in SLE patients.

Cardiovascular protection by SGLT2 inhibitors - Do anti-inflammatory mechanisms play a role?

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome and related metabolic disturbances represent a state of low-grade inflammation, which accelerates insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) progression. Among antidiabetic medications, sodium glucose co-transporter (SGLT) 2 inhibitors are the only agents which showed remarkable reductions in heart failure (HF) hospitalizations and major cardiovascular endpoints (MACE) as well as renal endpoints regardless of diabetes status in large randomized clinical outcome trials (RCTs). Although the exact mechanisms underlying these benefits are yet to be established, growing evidence suggests that modulating inflammation by SGLT2 inhibitors may play a key role.

SCOPE OF REVIEW

In this manuscript, we summarize the current knowledge on anti-inflammatory effects of SGLT2 inhibitors as one of the mechanisms potentially mediating their cardiovascular (CV) benefits. We introduce the different metabolic and systemic actions mediated by these agents which could mitigate inflammation, and further present the signalling pathways potentially responsible for their proposed direct anti-inflammatory effects. We also discuss controversies surrounding some of these mechanisms.

MAJOR CONCLUSIONS

SGLT2 inhibitors are promising anti-inflammatory agents by acting either indirectly via improving metabolism and reducing stress conditions or via direct modulation of inflammatory signalling pathways. These effects were achieved, to a great extent, in a glucose-independent manner which established their clinical use in HF patients with and without diabetes.

Masked nocturnal hypertension as a result of high prevalence of non-dippers among apparently well-controlled hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: data from a prospective study

BACKGROUND

Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HTN) show the dipping patterns, identify masked uncontrolled hypertension (MUCH), and demonstrate the effectiveness of the blood pressure (BP) treatment. MUCH is associated with a two-fold higher risk of adverse events. Prevalence in patients with DM is between 13.3 and 66.4%. Our study aims to investigate the prevalence of MUCH and the BP patterns in a population of apparently well-controlled hypertensive patients with type 2 DM (T2DM). A second aspect was the assessment of the effectiveness of antihypertensive treatment.

METHODS

One hundred and sixty-three consecutively treated hypertensive patients with T2DM and an office BP between 130-139 and 80-89 mmHg performed a 24 h ABPM. The circadian BP variation, the presence of MUCH, and the correlations with the treatment were assessed.

RESULTS

There were 75 dippers (46.02%), 77 non-dippers (47.23%), 4 reverse dippers (2.45%), and 7 extreme dippers (4.30%). Eighty-one patients (77 non-dippers + 4 reverse dippers; 49.7%) had isolated nocturnal MUCH according to the mean night ABPM criteria. Dippers and extreme dippers (75 dippers + 7 extreme dippers; 51.3%) did not have any MUCH criteria. The patients took, on an average, 3 antihypertensive drugs with no difference between those with controlled HTN and the isolated nocturnal MUCH group. Significant factors associated with isolated nocturnal MUCH and a non-dipping BP pattern included age > 65 years (OR = 1.9), DM duration > 10 years (OR = 1.4), HTN duration > 6.5 years (OR = 1.2), obesity (OR = 1.6), and cardiovascular comorbidities (OR = 1.4).

CONCLUSIONS

The current study shows that half of the treated hypertensive patients with T2DM and office clinical normotension are non-dippers or reverse dippers. They experience isolated nocturnal MUCH due to their elevated nocturnal BP values, which comply with the actual definition of masked nocturnal hypertension. Bedtime chronotherapy in those patients could be linked to better effectiveness of antihypertensive treatment during the night with the important goal of reducing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular adverse events. ABPM should be performed in hypertensive patients with DM for better risk stratification and more effective control of HTN.

Effect of sacubitril/valsartan on the occurrence of cardiac arrhythmias and the risk of sudden cardiac death in heart failure: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background

Sacubitril/valsartan therapy reduced the risks of death and of hospitalization for heart failure (HF). HF and cardiac arrhythmias have shared physiological mechanisems. Therefore, sacubitril/valsartan may exhibit anti-arrhythmic properties in HF. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of sacubitril/valsartan on the occurrence of cardiac arrhythmias and the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in HF.

Methods

This meta-analysis was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. We searched PubMed and Embase (from inception up to 6 February 2022) to identify randomized control trials (RCTs) on the effect of sacubitril/valsartan on the occurrence of cardiac arrhythmias and the risk of SCD in HF. Primary outcomes were the occurrence of atrial arrhythmias, ventricular arrhythmias, and SCD. Risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled using a random-effects model for meta-analysis.

Results

We included 9 RCTs (published between 2012 and 2021) with 18,500 patients (9,244 sacubitril/valsartan vs. 9,256 active control). Enalapril and valsartan were used as active control in six and two studies, respectively. Follow-up ranged from 2 to 35 months. The cumulative occurrence of events was 76, 13, and 48 per 1,000 patient-years for atrial arrhythmias, ventricular arrhythmias and SCD, respectively. There was no significant association between sacubitril/valsartan therapy and the occurrence of atrial arrhythmias (RR 1.06; 95% CI: 0.97–1.17; P = 0.19) and ventricular arrhythmias (RR 0.86; 95% CI 0.68–1.10; P = 0.24). However, sacubitril/valsartan therapy significantly reduced the risk of SCD (RR 0.79; 95% CI 0.70–0.90; P = 0.03) compared with control.

Conclusion

No association between sacubitril/valsartan therapy and the occurrence of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias was found, but sacubitril/valsartan therapy significantly reduced the risk of SCD.

European Stroke Organisation (ESO) guideline on pharmacological interventions for long-term secondary prevention after ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack

Recurrent stroke affects 9% to 15% of people within 1 year. This European Stroke Organisation (ESO) guideline provides evidence-based recommendations on pharmacological management of blood pressure (BP), diabetes mellitus, lipid levels and antiplatelet therapy for the prevention of recurrent stroke and other important outcomes in people with ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA). It does not cover interventions for specific causes of stroke, including anticoagulation for cardioembolic stroke, which are addressed in other guidelines. This guideline was developed through ESO standard operating procedures and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. The working group identified clinical questions, selected outcomes, performed systematic reviews, with meta-analyses where appropriate, and made evidence-based recommendations, with expert consensus statements where evidence was insufficient to support a recommendation. To reduce the long-term risk of recurrent stroke or other important outcomes after ischaemic stroke or TIA, we recommend: BP lowering treatment to a target of <130/80 mmHg, except in subgroups at increased risk of harm; HMGCoA-reductase inhibitors (statins) and targeting a low density lipoprotein level of <1.8 mmol/l (70 mg/dl); avoidance of dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel after the first 90 days; to not give direct oral anticoagulant drugs (DOACs) for embolic stroke of undetermined source and to consider pioglitazone in people with diabetes or insulin resistance, after careful consideration of potential risks. In addition to the evidence-based recommendations, all or the majority of working group members supported: out-of-office BP monitoring; use of combination treatment for BP control; consideration of ezetimibe or PCSK9 inhibitors when lipid targets are not achieved; consideration of use of low-dose DOACs in addition to an antiplatelet in selected groups of people with coronary or peripheral artery disease and aiming for an HbA1c level of <53 mmol/mol (7%) in people with diabetes mellitus. These guidelines aim to standardise long-term pharmacological treatment to reduce the burden of recurrent stroke in Europe.

Long-term use of renin-angiotensin-system inhibitors after acute myocardial infarction is not associated with survival benefits: Analysis of data from the Korean acute myocardial infarction registry-national institutes of health registry

Introduction

Renin-angiotensin-system inhibitors (RASi) have shown survival benefits after acute myocardial infarction (MI), but the role of routine long-term use of RASi remains unclear. Thereby, we explored the therapeutic effects of RASi medication at 1-year follow-up from acute MI.

Methods

Using the nationwide Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry-National Institutes of Health (KAMIR-NIH) registry, we included and analyzed 10,822 subjects. Patients were stratified into those taking RASi at 1-year follow-up (n = 7,696) and those not taking RASi at 1-year follow-up (n = 3,126). Patients were followed up for 2-years from the 1-year follow-up; 2-year all-cause mortality and cardiac mortality were analyzed as primary and secondary outcomes, respectively.

Results

The use of RASi at 1-year follow-up was not associated with decreased all-cause mortality (log-rank P = 0.195) or cardiac mortality (log-rank P = 0.337). In multivariate analyses, RASi medication at 1-year follow-up did not reduce all-cause mortality (P = 0.758) or cardiac mortality (P = 0.923), while RASi medication at discharge substantially reduced 1-year all-cause and cardiac mortality. Treatment with either an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin II receptor blocker at 1-year follow-up did not show survival benefits from 1-year follow-up, respectively. The use of RASi at 1-year follow-up did not show a prognostic interaction between previous history of chronic kidney disease, post-MI acute heart failure, concomitant use of beta-blockers at 1-year follow-up, or 1-year LVEF.

Conclusion

Acute MI patients taking RASi at 1-year follow-up were not associated with improved 2-year all-cause mortality or cardiac mortality from the 1-year follow-up. This study provides valuable information regarding tailored medication strategy after acute MI.

Clinical trial registration

[www.ClinicalTrials.gov], identifier [KCT0000863].

Renin-Angiotensin System Inhibitors in Patients With COVID-19: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Led by the International Society of Hypertension

Background

Published randomized controlled trials are underpowered for binary clinical end points to assess the safety and efficacy of renin‐angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi) in adults with COVID‐19. We therefore performed a meta‐analysis to assess the safety and efficacy of RASi in adults with COVID‐19.

Methods and Results

MEDLINE, EMBASE, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the Cochrane Controlled Trial Register were searched for randomized controlled trials that randomly assigned patients with COVID‐19 to RASi continuation/commencement versus no RASi therapy. The primary outcome was all‐cause mortality at ≤30 days. A total of 14 randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria and enrolled 1838 participants (aged 59 years, 58% men, mean follow‐up 26 days). Of the trials, 11 contributed data. We found no effect of RASi versus control on all‐cause mortality (7.2% versus 7.5%; relative risk [RR], 0.95; [95% CI, 0.69–1.30]) either overall or in subgroups defined by COVID‐19 severity or trial type. Network meta‐analysis identified no difference between angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors versus angiotensin II receptor blockers. RASi users had a nonsignificant reduction in acute myocardial infarction (2.1% versus 3.6%; RR, 0.59; [95% CI, 0.33–1.06]), but increased risk of acute kidney injury (7.0% versus 3.6%; RR, 1.82; [95% CI, 1.05–3.16]), in trials that initiated and continued RASi. There was no increase in need for dialysis or differences in congestive cardiac failure, cerebrovascular events, venous thromboembolism, hospitalization, intensive care admission, inotropes, or mechanical ventilation.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluating angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers versus control in patients with COVID‐19 found no difference in all‐cause mortality, a borderline decrease in myocardial infarction, and an increased risk of acute kidney injury with RASi. Our findings provide strong evidence that RASi can be used safely in patients with COVID‐19.

Role of Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System Inhibition in Patients Undergoing Carotid Revascularization

Background

Previous data suggest that using renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASIs) improves survival in patients with cardiovascular diseases. We sought to investigate the association of different patterns of use of RAASIs on perioperative and 1‐year outcomes following carotid revascularization.

Methods and Results

We investigated patients undergoing carotid revascularization, either with carotid endarterectomy or transfemoral carotid artery stenting, in the VQI (Vascular Quality Initiative) VISION (Vascular Implant Surveillance and Interventional Outcomes Network) data set between 2003 and 2018. We divided our cohort into 3 groups: (1) no history of RAASI intake, (2) preoperative intake only, and (3) continuous pre‐ and postoperative intake. The final cohort included 73 174 patients; 44.4% had no intake, 50% had continuous intake, and 5.6% had only preoperative intake. Compared with continuous intake, preoperative and no intake were associated with higher odds of postoperative stroke (odds ratio [OR], 1.7 [95% CI, 1.5–1.9]; P<0.001; OR, 1.1 [95% CI, 1.03–1.2]; P=0.010); death (OR, 4.8 [95% CI, 3.8–6.1]; P<0.001; OR, 1.9 [95% CI, 1.6–2.2]; P<0.001); and stroke/death (OR, 2.05 [95% CI, 1.8–2.3]; P<0.001; OR, 1.2 [95% CI, 1.1–1.3]; P<0.001), respectively. At 1 year, preoperative and no intake were associated with higher odds of stroke (hazard ratio [HR], 1.4 [95% CI, 1.3–1.6]; P<0.001; HR, 1.15, [95% CI, 1.08–1.2]; P<0.001); death (HR, 1.7 [95% CI, 1.5–1.9]; P<0.001; HR, 1.3 [95% CI, 1.2–1.4]; P<0.001); and stroke/death (HR, 1.5 [95% CI, 1.4–1.7]; P<0.001; HR, 1.2 [95% CI, 1.17–1.3]; P<0.001), respectively.

Conclusions

Compared with subjects discontinuing or never starting RAASIs, use of RAASIs before and after carotid revascularization was associated with a short‐term stroke and mortality benefit. Future clinical trials examining prescribing patterns of RAASIs should aim to clarify the timing and potential to maximize the protective effects of RAASIs in high‐risk vascular patients.

Association of Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System Inhibitor Usage Patterns with Mid-Term Amputation Free Survival After Lower Extremity Bypass for Peripheral Arterial Disease

OBJECTIVE

Different renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitor (RAASI) usage patterns exist among patients undergoing lower extremity bypass (LEB) for peripheral arterial disease (PAD). We studied the association of RAASI usage patterns with LEB outcomes to determine which pattern is associated improved survival after LEB.

METHODS

We evaluated PAD patients who underwent LEB between January 2014 and December 2018 in the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI) Medicare matched database. Study cohorts included no RAASI use, preoperative RAASI use only, postoperative RAASI use only, and continuous RAASI use both pre-and postoperatively. Logistic and Cox regression was used to adjust for potential confounders. Primary outcome was 2-year amputation free survival (AFS).

RESULTS

Of 19,012 patients included, 1574 (8.3%) were on RAASIs preoperatively only, 1051 (5.5%) postoperatively only, and 8484 (45.2%) continuously. Compared to no RAASI use, isolated preoperative RAASI use was associated with 2.8-fold increased odds of 30-day mortality (aOR, 2.75; 95%CI, 2.15-3.51; P<0.001) whereas continuous RAASI use had 56% lower odds of 30-day mortality (aOR, 0.44; 95%CI, 0.34-0.58; P<0.001). Two-year AFS was 63.2% for no RAASI use and 60.4%, 66.2% and 73.4% for preoperative, postoperative, and continuous RAASI use respectively (P<0.001). While no RAASI use and postoperative RAASI use had comparable adjusted risks of 2-year major amputation or death (aHR, 0.94; 95%CI, 0.83-1.06; P=0.312), this risk was 14% higher for preoperative RAASI use (aHR, 1.14; 95%CI, 1.04-1.26; P=0.006) and 23% lower for continuous RAASI use (aHR, 0.77; 95%CI, 0.72-0.82; P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Isolated preoperative RAASI use was associated with worse 30-day mortality and 2-year AFS while continuous RAASI use was associated with improved 30-day mortality and 2-year AFS. Optimum survival benefit may be derived from continuous RAAS inhibition in the pre- and postoperative periods.

Sex differences in hypertension. Do we need a sex-specific guideline?

Hypertension is the most prevalent cardiovascular disorder and the leading cause of death worldwide in both sexes. The prevalence of hypertension is lower in premenopausal women than in men of the same age, but sharply increases after the menopause, resulting in higher rates in women aged 65 and older. Awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension are better in women. A sex-pooled analysis from 4 community-based cohort studies found increasing cardiovascular risk beginning at lower systolic blood pressure thresholds for women than men. Hormonal changes after the menopause play a substantial role in the pathophysiology of hypertension in postmenopausal women. Female-specific causes of hypertension such as the use of contraceptive agents and assisted reproductive technologies have been identified. Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy are associated with increased risk of maternal, fetal, and neonatal morbidity and mortality, as well as with a greater risk of developing cardiovascular disease later in life. Hypertension-mediated organ damage was found to be more prevalent in women, thus increasing the cardiovascular risk. Sex differences in pharmacokinetics have been observed, but their clinical implications are still a matter of debate. There are currently no sufficient data to support sex-based differences in the efficacy of antihypertensive treatment. Adverse drug reactions are more frequently reported in women. Women are still underrepresented in large clinical trials in hypertension, and not all of them report sex-specific results. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to oblige scientists to include women in clinical trials and to consider sex as a biological variable.

Bedtime dosing of antihypertensive medications: systematic review and consensus statement: International Society of Hypertension position paper endorsed by World Hypertension League and European Society of Hypertension

Antihypertensive drug therapy is one of the most efficient medical interventions for preventing disability and death globally. Most of the evidence supporting its benefits has been derived from outcome trials with morning dosing of medications. Accumulating evidence suggests an adverse prognosis associated with night-time hypertension, nondipping blood pressure (BP) profile and morning BP surge, with increased incidence of cardiovascular events during the first few morning hours. These observations provide justification for complete 24-h BP control as being the primary goal of antihypertensive treatment. Bedtime administration of antihypertensive drugs has also been proposed as a potentially more effective treatment strategy than morning administration. This Position Paper by the International Society of Hypertension reviewed the published evidence on the clinical relevance of the diurnal variation in BP and the timing of antihypertensive drug treatment, aiming to provide consensus recommendations for clinical practice. Eight published outcome hypertension studies involved bedtime dosing of antihypertensive drugs, and all had major methodological and/or other flaws and a high risk of bias in testing the impact of bedtime compared to morning treatment. Three ongoing, well designed, prospective, randomized controlled outcome trials are expected to provide high-quality data on the efficacy and safety of evening or bedtime versus morning drug dosing. Until that information is available, preferred use of bedtime drug dosing of antihypertensive drugs should not be routinely recommended in clinical practice. Complete 24-h control of BP should be targeted using readily available, long-acting antihypertensive medications as monotherapy or combinations administered in a single morning dose.

A Case Series Analysis of Major Vascular Revascularization

Purpose

Atherosclerosis is a generalized disorder and can begin to develop in the abdominal aorta by the second decade of life. The nature of these lesions in coronaries and aorta is atheromatous and less sclerotic when compared to peripheral arteries. A broad spectrum of presentations and different types of lesions demand a personalized approach for the best outcome. This study is a case series analysis of major vascular revascularization. We aim to study various revascularization surgeries and underline the wide range of vascular lesions to which it is applied.

Methods

This is a study based on accrual patient records of all major vascular revascularization surgical/interventional procedures conducted at a tertiary care center for one year.

Results

A total of 110 patients were operated on for vascular diseases. Among these, 86 (78.81%) were men, and 24 (21.81%) were women. The femoropopliteal segment (n=47) was most commonly involved, followed by the common carotid artery (n=20). Atherosclerosis was the main cause of vascular occlusion (81.8%), followed by aneurysm of the aorta (14.5%) and coarctation of the aorta (2.7%). Smoking (62.2%) accounted to be the leading risk factor, followed by hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. The majority of patients had a good outcome (92.7%). Minor complications (7.3%) include seroma formation and wound infection, which were managed conservatively. The repair was performed by autologous vein graft in 30% of patients and by synthetic polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) graft in 70% of patients. Carotid artery stenting was the most common endovascular procedure performed (n=5). Femoropopliteal bypass grafting was the most common procedure, followed by carotid endarterectomy (n=20) and aortofemoral bypass (n=14).

Conclusion

The application of novel techniques such as cavo-atrial shunt in Budd-Chiari syndrome calls attention to the broadened scope of vascular surgery, and the modification of the conventional method of the carotid endarterectomy underscores the evolution of vascular revascularization. Our study thus highlighted that a wide spectrum of vascular lesions ranging from carotid artery stenosis to extensive below-knee disease, either atherosclerotic or aneurysmal, can be successfully treated with surgical revascularization techniques.

Door to balloon time in primary percutaneous coronary intervention in ST elevation myocardial infarction: every minute counts

OBJECTIVES

This study examines relationships between door to balloon (D2B) time and subsequent admissions due to heart failure (HF), acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and mortality for up to 1 year.

BACKGROUND

Current guidelines set 90-min for D2B time for primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) as a goal, which has been shown to reduce mortality and adverse events.

METHODS

Using the MDclone ADAMS system integrated with our electronic medical records, we conducted retrospective analysis of all patients admitted due to ST-elevation myocardial infarction from home, without any history of HF or coronary disease, and who underwent PPCI during 2013-2019. Data on D2B time, baseline clinical and demographic characteristics, and outcomes of HF, ACS and mortality were collected. Adjusted HR for each of the outcomes was calculated by multivariate Cox model.

RESULTS

A total of 826 patients were included in the final analysis. D2B had no significant effect on incidence of heart failure admissions for up to 1-year follow-up. D2B had a significant effect on mortality at 180 days, showing a 30% increase for each 30-min increase (HR 1.308; CI, 1.046-1.635) as for ACS at 90 days (HR 1.307; 1.025-1.638). The 30-min D2B cutoff showed a significant increase in ACS recurrence throughout the follow-up period at 90 days (HR 2.871, 1.239-6.648), 180 days (HR 2.607, 1.255-5.413), and 1 year (HR 1.886, 1.073-3.317).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with shorter D2B times had significantly reduced mortality and recurrence of ACS, with no effect on heart failure admission incidence.