Primary coronary angioplasty vs thrombolysis for the management of acute myocardial infarction in elderly patients

The Effect of Early Applied Robot-Assisted Physiotherapy on Functional Independence Measure Score in Post-Myocardial Infarction Patients

Robot-assisted training has been widely used in rehabilitation programs, but no significant clinical evidence about its use in productive working-age cardiac patients was demonstrated. Thus, we hypothesized that early applied robot-assisted physiotherapy might provide additional treatment benefits in the rehabilitation of post-myocardial infarction (MI) patients. A total of 92 (50 men, 42 women) hospitalized post-MI patients with the age of 60.9 ± 2.32 participated in the research. An early intensive physiotherapy program (7×/week, 2×/day) was applied for each patient with an average time of 45 min per session. Patients were consecutively assigned to Experimental group (EG) and Control group (CG). Then, 20 min of robot-assisted training by Motomed letto 2 or Thera-Trainer tigo was included in all EG physiotherapy sessions. The Functional Independence Measures (FIM) score at the admission and after 14 days of rehabilitation was used for an assessment. When analyzing time * group effect by repeated-measures ANOVA, we reported that EG showed a higher effect in ADL (p = 0.00), and Motor indicators (p = 0.00). There was no statistically significant effect reported in the Social indicator (p = 0.35). Early rehabilitation programs for post-MI patients might be enhanced by robotic tools, such as THERA-Trainer tigo, and Motomed letto 2. The improvement was particularly noticeable in mobility and ADLs.

Perceived Heart Attack Likelihood in Adults with a High Diabetes Risk

BACKGROUND

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women and men in the United States. Yet, little is known about the motivation for care-seeking behavior for heart attack and the perception of self-risk of a heart attack in individuals, especially those at high risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to describe knowledge and awareness of heart attacks and perceived risk for future heart attacks and evaluate factors associated with a low perceived risk of a heart attack in adults with a high risk for type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

In this secondary data, cross-sectional study, the screening/baseline data of 80 adults participating in the mobile phone-based diabetes prevention program trial were analyzed. Validated measures assessed knowledge, self-efficacy, and heart attack risk perception were used. Logistic regressions were performed.

RESULTS

The mean (standard deviation) age of participants was 55.4 (9.0) years. 32.5% of the sample failed to identify any heart attack symptoms. Half of the sample did not perceive their risk of having a heart attack in their lifetime. Older age, lower body mass index, not having a family history of heart attack, and current smokers were significantly associated with a lower perceived risk of heart attack (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Healthcare providers need to assess the discrepancies between the individual's risk perception and the presence of actual risk factors of a heart attack in adults with a high risk for type 2 diabetes.

Comparison of effects of thrombolytic therapy and primary percutaneous coronary intervention in elderly patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction on in-hospital, six-month, and one-year mortality

Introduction

This study aims to evaluate the effect of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and thrombolytic therapy (TT) on the in-hospital adverse events, in-hospital and long-term mortality in patients over 65 years of age with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Material and methods

A total of 111 retrospectively screened patients (73 males, mean age: 73.4 ±5.9 years) over 65 years of age with STEMI, who underwent TT or primary PCI, were included in the study. Patients' characteristics, in-hospital outcomes, and 6-month and 1-year mortalities were recorded.

Results

Our study was conducted with 111 patients over 65 years of age with STEMI (73 males, 38 females). Of the patients, 66 (59.5%) were treated with thrombolytics, and 45 (40.5%) patients underwent primary PCI. Door-to-needle time was 25.9 ±7.8 min in the TT group, whereas door-to-balloon time was 84.4 ±20.0 min in the PCI group. Time from symptom onset to hospital admission was 213.6 ±158.4 min in the thrombolytic group, and 166.8 ±112.8 min in the PCI group. Rescue PCI was performed in 7 (10.6%) patients in the TT group due to lack of reperfusion. Recurrent infarction was observed in 5 (7.6%) patients in the TT group and in 2 (4.4%) patients in the PCI group. Non-haemorrhagic stroke was observed in 1 (1.5%) patient in the thrombolytic-administered group and in 4 (8.9%) patients in the PCI group. No intracranial haemorrhage was observed in any patient. Major haemorrhage was observed in 4 (6.1%) patients in the TT group and in 4 (8.9%) patients in the PCI group. Six-month and 1-year mortalities were present in 15 (22.7%) patients and 19 patients in thrombolytic group, and 8 (17.8%) and 8 (17.8%) patients in the PCI group, respectively. Binary logistic regression analysis indicated that the patient's age was the only predictor for 1-year mortality (odds ratio (OR) = 1.1, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.019-1.188, p = 0.015).

Conclusions

Considering the in-hospital adverse outcomes, in-hospital mortality, and 6-month mortality rates, TT and primary PCI have similar effects in STEMI patients aged 65 years and over according to the results of our study. Although 1-year mortality was higher in the TT group, it was not statistically significant.

Impact of Reducing Pre-Hospital Delay in Response to Heart Attack Symptoms in Australia

BACKGROUND

This research estimates the broader socioeconomic impacts of reducing pre-hospital delay times across Australia in patients with heart attack symptoms.

METHODS

A cost benefit analysis (CBA) was undertaken to demonstrate the costs and benefits of a public awareness/education campaign to reduce pre-hospital delay time from 5.2hours (Base Case) to 4.1hours (Scenario 1) and 2.0hours (Scenario 2). All assumptions underlying the CBA are supported by academic literature. Financial impacts considered include campaign/public education costs, direct inpatient costs and long-term health care costs. Socioeconomic impacts considered include burden of disease, productivity losses, informal care costs and net deadweight loss.

RESULTS

The campaign is expected to generate an additional net benefit of $41.2-139.1 million in comparison to the Base Case, resulting in a benefit cost ratio (BCR) of 3.23-5.06. Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) reduced by 6,046-7,575 years.

CONCLUSION

This research illustrates that an investment in public awareness/education campaign can generate considerable benefits, more than offsetting the costs associated with the campaign and keeping people living longer such as ongoing health care costs. However, significant effort, supplementary strategies and sustained investment will be required to ensure the impact and benefit is sustained over the long term.

Do elderly females have a higher risk of acute myocardial infarction? A retrospective analysis of 329 cases at an emergency department

OBJECTIVE

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a medical emergency; a missed or delayed diagnosis of this disease may contribute to a poor outcome and even death. Several studies have found elderly patients with AMI have atypical presentations for diagnosis, therefore we undertook this study to determine the risks among the elderly population, especially in female patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this one-year retrospective study, we reviewed the cases of AMI patients who had visited the emergency department at Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taiwan, and who had either been discharged or had died following a diagnosis of AMI (ICD code 410). We compared the differences between the clinical presentations of these two groups as well as the risk factors, medical management, and outcomes.

RESULTS

In our study, only 329 patients (164 elderly; 165 adults) met the defined criteria. The most common symptom of AMI was chest pain, and this was more common in adult patients than in elderly patients (81.8% vs. 60.4%, p < 0.001). In comparison with patients in the adult group, the patients in the elderly group had a significantly higher proportion of females (46.3% vs. 12.7%), non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) (71.3% vs. 46.7%), presenting with no chest pain (39.6% vs. 18.2%), shortness of breath (17.7% vs. 8.8%), nausea/vomiting/dizziness (7.9% vs. 2.4%), abdominal pain (4.3% vs. 0.6%), diabetes mellitus (45.1% vs. 26.1%), cerebrovascular disease (22.6% vs. 6.1%), longer hospital stays (18.2 ± 31.0 days vs. 9.8 ± 8.2 days), and increased in-hospital mortality rates (15.9% vs. 6.7%).

CONCLUSION

Compared with the adult AMI group, the elderly AMI group had a higher proportion of females, electrocardiography with NSTEMI and no chest-pain complaints, and a larger proportion of elderly patients with diabetes, ischemic heart disease, heart attacks at home and cardiac shock, which had longer hospital stays, and higher mortality rates.

Primary percutaneous coronary intervention in octogenarians

BACKGROUND

Limited data are available on the outcome of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in octogenarian patients, as the elderly are under-represented in randomized trials. This study aims to provide insights on clinical characteristics, management and outcome of the elderly and very elderly presenting with STEMI.

METHODS

2225 STEMI patients ≥70years old (mean age 76.8±5.1years and 53.8% men) were admitted into the network of the ISACS-TC registry. Of these patients, 72.8% were ≥70 to 79years old (elderly) and 27.2% were ≥80years old (very-elderly). The primary end-point was 30-day mortality.

RESULTS

Thirty-day mortality rates were 13.4% in the elderly and 23.9% in the very-elderly. Primary PCI decreased the unadjusted risk of death both in the elderly (OR: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.24-0.43) and very-elderly patients (OR: 0.45, 95% CI 0.30-0.68), without significant difference between groups. In the very-elderly hypertension and Killip class ≥2 were the only independent factors associated with mortality; whereas in the elderly female gender, prior stroke, chronic kidney disease and Killip class ≥2 were all factors independently associated with mortality. Factors associated with the lack of use of reperfusion were female gender and atypical chest pain in the very-elderly and in the elderly; in the elderly, however, there were some more factors, namely: history of diabetes, current smoking, prior stroke, Killip class ≥2 and history chronic kidney disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Age is relevant in the prognosis of STEMI, but its importance should not be considered secondary to other major clinical factors. Primary PCI appears to have beneficial effects in the octogenarian STEMI patients.

Percutaneous coronary intervention in the elderly

Our population dynamics are changing. The number of octogenarians and older people in the general population is increasing and therefore the number of older patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome or stable angina is increasing. This group has a larger burden of coronary disease and also a greater number of concomitant comorbidities when compared to younger patients. Many of the studies assessing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to date have actively excluded octogenarians. However, a number of studies, both retrospective and prospective, are now being undertaken to reflect the, "real" population. Despite being a higher risk group for both elective and emergency PCIs, octogenarians have the greatest to gain in terms of prognosis, symptomatic relief, and arguably more importantly, quality of life. Important future development will include assessment of patient frailty, encouraging early presentation, addressing gender differences on treatment strategies, identification of culprit lesion(s) and vascular access to minimise vascular complications. We are now appreciating that the new frontier is perhaps recognising and risk stratifying those elderly patients who have the most to gain from PCI. This review article summarises the most relevant trials and studies.

Treatment choices in elderly patients with ST: elevation myocardial infarction-insights from the Vital Heart Response registry

BACKGROUND

Management of elderly patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is challenging and they are under-represented in trials. Accordingly, we analysed reperfusion strategies and their effectiveness in patients with STEMI ≥75 years compared to <75 years within a comprehensive inclusive registry.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with STEMI admitted to hospital and tracked within a regional registry (2006-2011) were analysed comparing reperfusion strategy (primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI), fibrinolysis and no reperfusion) between patients ≥75 vs <75 years old as well as across the reperfusion strategies in those ≥75 years.

RESULTS

There were 3588 patients with STEMI with 646 (18%) ≥75 years old. Elderly patients were more likely female (46.9% vs 18.4%) and had more prior: angina (28.2% vs 17.2%), myocardial infarction (MI; 22.8% vs 13.9%), hypertension (67.6% vs 44.2%), heart failure (2.3% vs 0.3%) and atrial fibrillation (2.2% vs 0.5%) (all p<0.001). The reperfusion strategy for patients ≥75 vs <75: PPCI 45.3% vs 41.2%, fibrinolysis 24.8% vs 45.7%, and no reperfusion 29.9% vs 13.1% (p<0.001). Time from symptoms to first medical contact (median, 93 vs 78 min p=0.008) and PPCI (median, 166 vs 136 min (p<0.001) were longer for ≥75 years. In those ≥75 years outcomes by reperfusion (PPCI, fibrinolysis and none) were: in-hospital death 13.3%, 9.4% and 19.7% (p=0.018), and composite of death, recurrent-MI, cardiogenic shock and congestive heart failure 28%, 20% and 33.2% (p=0.022).

CONCLUSIONS

Elderly patients have more comorbidities, worst in-hospital clinical outcomes and are less likely to receive reperfusion. Acknowledging physician selection of the reperfusion strategy; outcomes appear favourable in the elderly receiving fibrinolysis.

Comparison of functional recovery following percutaneous coronary intervention for ST elevation myocardial infarction in three age groups (<70, 70 to 79, and ≥80 years)

Functional outcomes of elderly patients ≥80 years who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) are unknown. Registry data indicate that up to 55% of elderly patients with STEMI do not receive reperfusion therapy despite a suggested mortality benefit, and only limited data are available regarding outcomes in elderly patients treated with primary PCI. Therefore, prospective data from a regional STEMI transfer program were analyzed to determine major adverse cardiac events, length of stay, and discharge status of consecutive patients with STEMI ≥80 years from March 2003 to November 2006. Of the 1,323 consecutive patients with STEMI treated in this regional STEMI system from March 2003 to November 2006, 199 (15.0%) were ≥80 years old. In-hospital mortality in elderly patients was 11.6%, with a 1-year mortality rate of 25.6%. Of the 166 patients with age ≥80 who lived independently or in assisted living before hospital admission and survived, 150 (90.4%) were discharged to a similar living situation or projected to such a living situation after temporary nursing home care. The median length of hospital stay was 4 days for these patients. In conclusion, elderly patients with age ≥80 receiving PCI for STEMI in a regional STEMI program have short hospital stays and excellent functional recovery on the basis of a very high rate of return to a similar previous living situation.

Reperfusion strategies and quality of care in 5339 patients age 80 years or older presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction: analysis from get with the guidelines-coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND

Data regarding reperfusion strategies, adherence to national guidelines, and in-hospital mortality in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients age ≥80 years are limited. The aim of this study was to determine current reperfusion trends, medical treatment, and in-hospital mortality during STEMI in older adults.

HYPOTHESIS

Among patients aged 80 or above presenting with STEMI, adherence to guidelines, length of stay, and in-hospital mortality would be better in those receiving reperfusion versus those who did not.

METHODS

Using the Get With The Guidelines-Coronary Artery Disease (GWTG-CAD) database, we examined care and in-hospital outcomes of STEMI patients ≥80 years old. Use of evidence-based therapies and quality measures were analyzed by reperfusion strategies.

RESULTS

A total of 5339 patients age ≥80 years hospitalized with STEMI were included. Of these, 42.8% (n = 2285) underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI), 4.8% (n = 255) underwent thrombolysis (TL), and 52.4% (n = 2799) received no reperfusion (NR). Patients with NR were more likely to be older, female, have lower body mass index, and higher prevalence of renal insufficiency and heart failure compared with PPCI or TL patients. During the last decade, there was a significant increase in the use of PPCI compared with TL as the main reperfusion strategy in this population. Adjusted in-hospital mortality in PPCI patients was lower compared with NR patients (odds ratio [OR]: 0.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.35-0.49); also, patients undergoing PPCI or TL had lower mortality compared with NR patients (OR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.40-0.55).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients ≥80 years old admitted with STEMI to GWTG-CAD hospitals, less than half undergo mechanical or pharmacological reperfusion. However, the proportion of patients undergoing PPCI has increased substantially over the 8-year study period. Patients undergoing PPCI or TL had lower in-hospital mortality compared with the NR strategy.

Age related issues in reperfusion of myocardial infarction

Advances in pharmacological treatment and effective early myocardial revascularization have led to improved clinical outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, it has been suggested that compared to younger subjects, elderly AMI patients are less likely to receive evidence-based treatment. Several reasons have been postulated to explain this trend, including uncertainty regarding the benefits of the commonly used interventions in the older age group as well as increased risk associated with comorbidities. The diagnosis, management, and post-hospitalization care of elderly patients presenting with an acute coronary syndrome (ACS) pose many difficulties at present due, at least in part, to the fact that trial data are scanty as elderly patients have been poorly represented in most clinical trials. Thus it appears that these high-risk individuals are often managed with more conservative strategies, compared to younger patients. This article reviews current evidence regarding management of AMI in the elderly.

Effect of prior stroke on the use of evidence-based therapies and in-hospital outcomes in patients with myocardial infarction (from the NCDR ACTION GWTG registry)

Patients with previous stroke are at high-risk for myocardial infarction (MI). Concern regarding increased risk of bleeding or recurrent stroke in this patient population might alter therapeutic decisions. Data were collected from 281 hospitals in the United States in the NCDR ACTION Registry. Patients with ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI; n = 15,997) or non-STEMI (NSTEMI; n = 25,514) entered into the registry from January 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007 were included. We assessed use of evidence-based medications and procedures in patients with and without previous stroke. Risk-adjusted odds ratio of death, major bleeding not related to coronary artery bypass grafting, and a composite outcome (major adverse cardiac events [MACEs], i.e., death/MI/stroke/cardiogenic shock/congestive heart failure) were calculated using logistic regression. Previous stroke was reported in 5.1% of patients with STEMI and 9.3% of those with NSTEMI. Of patients with STEMI eligible for reperfusion therapy, those with previous stroke were less likely to receive reperfusion therapy compared to patients without previous stroke. Patients with previous stroke had longer door-to-needle and door-to-balloon times. Of patients with STEMI and NSTEMI, those with previous stroke were less likely to receive evidence-based therapies. Death, MACEs, and major bleeding were more common with previous stroke. When adjusted for baseline risk, patients with previous stroke were at increased risk of death (only those with STEMI) and MACEs but not bleeding. In conclusion, patients with STEMI and previous stroke are at increased risk for death and patients with STEMI and NSTEMI are at increased risk of MACE. Despite this, previous stroke patients are less likely to receive guideline-based MI therapies.

Changing nature of cardiac interventions in older adults

Older adults represent a rapidly growing segment of the population in developed countries. Advancing age is the most powerful risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and CVD-related mortality increases markedly in older individuals. Procedures for patients with CVD, including percutaneous coronary intervention, aortic valve replacement and implantable cardioverter defibrillators were all initially validated in younger individuals but are increasingly being applied in older adults who for the most part have been significantly understudied in clinical trials. While advanced age alone is not a contraindication to these procedures, with the advent of less invasive methods to manage CVD including percutaneous techniques to treat both coronary artery disease and valvular heart disease, future research will need to weigh the potential harms of intervention in a population of older adults with multiple medical comorbidities and complex physiologic phenotypes against outcomes that include preventing functional decline and improving quality of life.

Impact of age on treatment and outcomes in ST-elevation myocardial infarction

OBJECTIVES

We hypothesized that older patients in a regional ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) transfer program would attain comparable treatment to younger patients.

BACKGROUND

Older patients have been either excluded or underrepresented in STEMI clinical trials. Observational studies suggest that these patients are less likely to receive adjunctive pharmacologies and reperfusion therapy-thrombolysis or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)-and therapy is frequently delayed.

METHODS

We identified a consecutive series of 2,262 STEMI patients (March 2003-December 2008) who either presented or were transferred to Abbott Northwestern Hospital for PCI (<65 years [n = 1285], 65-74 years [n = 436], 75-84 years [n = 381], and ≥85 years [n = 160]). Main outcome measures included time-to-reperfusion therapy, adjunctive medications received, and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

Overall time-to-reperfusion therapy was similar across age strata-94 minutes (<65 years), 101 minutes (65-74 years), 106 minutes (75-84 years), and 103 minutes (≥85 years). No difference in adjunctive antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications was seen at hospital admission, and only slight differences in standard post-myocardial infarction medication use were seen by age at hospital discharge. Age was an independent predictor of in-hospital and yearly mortality up to 5 years (1-year mortality 3.4% [<65 years], 9.2% [65-74 years], 15.2% [75-84 years], and 28.9% [≥85 years]; P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Older patients receive similar care to younger patients when treated in a regional STEMI transfer program. Although all-cause mortality in the elderly is increased, the absolute rates are lower than previously established. Our data suggest primary PCI (including transfer) can be applied to all appropriate STEMI patients, regardless of age.

Management of Acute ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Reperfusion Options

Primary percutaneous coronary intervention and thrombolysis remain therapies of choice for patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Clinical outcome in the management of acute STEMI is dependent on myocardial reperfusion time and reperfusion strategies. Optimisation of these strategies should take into consideration logistical limitations of the local medical systems and the various patient profiles. We review the reperfusion strategies and its history in Singapore, comparing its clinical application with that in some developed Western countries. Key words: Acute Myocardial Infarction, Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention, ST segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction, Thrombolysis

Meta-analysis of studies of patients in the United Arab Emirates with ST-elevation myocardial infarction treated with thrombolytic agents

We performed a meta-analysis of 6 studies we conducted in the United Arab Emirates from 1995 to 2009. These included 1,262 patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction treated with thrombolytic drugs <6 hours after onset of symptoms and signs of myocardial infarction. All patients were treated with tenecteplase or alteplase to induce coronary thrombolysis. Characteristics of patients in all studies were quite similar. Overall mean age was 47 years, 98% were men, 28% had diabetes, 25% were hypertensive, 20% were hyperlipidemic, 56% were smokers, and 9% had sustained previous myocardial infarction. Incidence of adverse outcomes of 30-day mortality (3%), reinfarction (2.5%), stroke (0.4%), or major bleeding (0%) was low compared to global experience with recanalization regardless of how it was induced. There was no incidence of major bleeding requiring transfusion or laparotomy. In conclusion, in predominantly young men in the United Arab Emirates who were admitted and treated early after onset of an acute ST elevation myocardial infarction, recanalization induced by thrombolysis was an attractive therapeutic approach.

Evaluation of the influence of age and gender on the relationships between infarct size, infarct severity, and left ventricular ejection fraction in patients successfully treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention

BACKGROUND

Female sex and advanced age have adverse prognostic meaning in acute myocardial infarction. Whether gender and/or age influence the relationship between infarct size, infarct severity, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is unclear.

METHODS

We examined 460 patients (359 men) with acute myocardial infarction submitted to successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention. Infarct size, infarct severity, and LVEF were evaluated with perfusion gated SPECT at one month of index infarction.

RESULTS

There were no significant correlations between age and infarct size or infarct severity, and between age and LVEF. Moreover, elderly age (>or=75 years) did not influence the relationship between LVEF and infarct size or infarct severity. Conversely, there was a significant gender-related difference in the relationship between LVEF and infarct size (F = 20.5, P < .00001), and between LVEF and infarct severity (F = 8.6, P < .005). In practice, there was a steeper decrease in LVEF in case of moderate to large infarct size in women than in men.

CONCLUSION

With increasing infarct size, LVEF decreases more sharply in women than in men. Conversely, age does not influence the relationship between infarct dimensions and LVEF.

Review of the treatment of acute coronary syndrome in elderly patients

Advances in treatment and early revascularization have led to improved outcomes for patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, elderly ACS patients are less likely to receive evidence-based treatment, including revascularization therapy, due to uncertainty of the associated benefits and risks in this population. This article addresses key issues regarding medical and revascularization therapy in elderly ACS patients based on a review of the medical literature and in concordance with clinical practice guidelines from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC).

Outcomes of contemporary interventional therapy of ST elevation infarction in patients older than 75 years

BACKGROUND

Data on contemporary real-world outcomes of interventional revascularization in patients > or = 75 y of age with ST elevation infarction (STEMI) are limited.

METHODS

We analyzed all 504 consecutive patients who underwent angiography for acute STEMI between 1999 and 2005 at our center, and followed them up over one year. Outcomes in patients > or = 75 y of age were compared with younger patients.

RESULTS

Patients > or = 75 y of age (n = 115) were majority females (55% versus 21%, p < 0.001), more cases of diabetes (42% versus 27%, p = 0.004), hypertension (78% versus 65%, p = 0.03) and a history of coronary events (25% versus 15%, p = 0.002). Younger patients were more often smokers (63% versus 30%, p < 0.001). After coronary angiography patients > or = 75 y of age underwent less frequent intervention (PCI; 84% versus 93%, p = 0.01). However, if PCI was performed, technical success rates were similar to younger patients (84% versus 86%). The 30-d mortality was 13% versus 6.4% (p = 0.03), but after successful PCI, the 30-d mortality rate was not significantly higher in old patients (7.4% versus 3.9%, p = 0.23). Bleeding complications were very low in both age groups if the radial access route was chosen. Multivariate predictors of 30-d mortality were cardiogenic shock/survived cardiac arrest, ejection fraction < 30%, conservative treatment or unsuccessful PCI (OR 3.01), renal insufficiency, diabetes, and age. One-y mortality was higher in the elderly (24.3% versus 9.9%, p < 0.001). Among 30-d-survivors, only multivessel disease and age were multivariate predictors of 1-y mortality.

CONCLUSION

Patients > or = 75 y of age benefit from PCI in STEMI, and failed or unattempted PCI worsens prognosis in the old as well as in younger patients.

Comparison of effects of primary coronary angioplasty on left ventricular remodeling and heart failure in patients <70 versus > or =70 years with acute myocardial infarction

Experimental studies have demonstrated the adverse effects of senescence on cardiac function and remodeling after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We sought to assess the impact of age on left ventricular (LV) remodeling and heart failure (HF) after successful primary angioplasty for AMI. A series of 512 consecutive patients underwent 2-dimensional echocardiography at admission and at 1 month and 6 months after index AMI. LV volumes, ejection fraction, and wall motion score index (WMSI) were measured. Patients were divided in group 1 (<70 years old, n = 361) and group 2 (> or =70 years old, n = 151). Group 2 patients showed a lower peak creatine kinase (p = 0.029) compared to group 1. In group 2 patients the 6-month prevalence of LV remodeling (increase >20% in end-diastolic volume) was higher (34% vs 25%, p = 0.041), recoveries of ejection fraction and WMSI were lower (p = 0.00002 for the 2 comparisons), and incidence of late HF was higher (35% vs 17%, p <0.0001) compared to group 1 patients. Independent predictors of LV remodeling were WMSI (p <0.0001), infarct size (p <0.0001), and LV end-diastolic volume (p <0.0001). Independent predictors of late HF were WMSI (hazard ratio [HR] 2.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.624 to 4.514), 6-month LV dilation (HR 2.13, 95% CI 1.404 to 3.233), diabetes (HR 1.6, 95% CI 1.008 to 2.595), infarct size (HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.037 to 1.215), and age as continuous variables (HR 1.064, 95% CI 1.044 to 1.085). In conclusion, besides infarct size, extensive regional systolic dysfunction may play a significant role in the development of LV remodeling and HF in patients > or =70 years old after successful primary angioplasty.

Interventions for cardiovascular disease in women

Cardiovascular disease represents the main health problem for women as it is the leading cause of death and morbidity. In recent years, technological advances and experience gained by surgeons and cardiologists has resulted in a significant improvement of percutaneous coronary procedures, which has been demonstrated to be safe and effective for both men and women. However, gender disparities in the management of coronary artery disease, specifically in the rate of use of these interventional procedures, as well as in the incidence of cardiovascular events have been reported. Treatment inequalities may also impact on outcomes. Possible reasons for treatment bias include a patient's preferences, a physician's decisions, biological and pathophysiological gender differences and inadequate evidence-based medicine among women.

[Acute coronary syndrome in the elderly. Optimal revascularisation strategies]

Although there are accepted guidelines for treatment of acute coronary syndromes and ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, elderly patients may have a variety of conditions that can complicate the decision making process about the best therapy. For fear of adverse effects many elderly patients do not receive potentially lifesaving treatments, such as percutaneous coronary intervention or thrombolytic therapy. Appropriate revascularisation therapy also often will be received too late in the course of the infarct, when irreversible myocardial damage has occurred. Many studies, however, show that older patients will benefit substantially from these therapies and early treatment improves outcome in this population, despite a higher risk of complications. In this review, the evidence regarding medical and revascularisation therapies in acute coronary syndromes in the elderly is critically examined.

Effect of time to treatment and age on one year mortality in acute STEMI: difference between thrombolysis and primary percutaneous coronary intervention

CONTEXT

Although thrombolysis (THL) and primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) are two validated options in reperfusion algorithms for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), recent papers seems to show that PPCI could be the best therapeutic option irrespective of the time to treatment (TT) and of the cardiovascular risk profile of the patient. The impact of TT and age on reperfusion strategies requires elucidation. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of time to treatment and age on the 1-year mortality of patients presenting with STEMI, for each reperfusion strategy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study population consisted in 794 patients directly admitted to the cardiological intensive care unit for STEMI < or =12 hours. The relationship between TT and 1-year mortality was studied using logistic regression models. The models were implemented on the overall population and on 3 different age groups: [<65 years]; [> or =65 and <75 years]; [> or =75 years] for patients undergoing THL (n=299) and for patients undergoing PPCI (n=495). There was no significant between-group difference in all-cause 1-year mortality for the patients [<65 years] and those [> or =65 and <75 years]. In contrast, the 1-year mortality was significantly higher in the patients [> or =75 years] undergoing THL (51.4 vs. 15.3%; p<0.001). The analysis of the curves of mortality suggests that 1- year mortality of patients with STEMI depend not only on reperfusion strategy but so on the time to treatment and on the age of the patients.

CONCLUSION

In STEMI, on a 1-year mortality criteria, PPCI is not always upper than THL, particularly for patients<65 years treated within the first two hours after symptoms onset. TT and age affects the results of the reperfusion strategies and must be still incorporated in the reperfusion algorithms of STEMI.

Transfer for primary angioplasty in elderly patients with acute myocardial infarction

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was the evaluation of an immediate transfer for primary angioplasty (PPCI) in elderly (age > or = 75 years) patients with ST elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

All elderly patients with STEMI admitted for PPCI from June 2002 to October 2005, were enrolled. Major Adverse Cardiac Events (MACE) were collected at 6 months.

RESULTS

133 patients (group 1) were admitted directly and 154 patients (group 2) were transferred from peripheral hospitals. Ischemia time was 248 +/- 146 min in group 1 and 276 +/- 169 min in group two (P<0.001); door-to-balloon time was 60+/-30 min in group 1 and 90+/-45 min in group two (P<0.0001). At 6 months cardiac death occurred in 15 (11%) and 16 (10%) patients in group 1 and 2 respectively (P=NS), MI in 3(2%) and 2(1%) respectively (P=NS), clinically driven target lesion revascularization in 6(4%) and 5(3%) respectively, for an overall event-free survival rate of 82% in group 1 and 83% in group 2 (P=NS). Logistic regression analysis showed age (OR: 1.04.1; 95% CI: 1.0-1.2; P=0.049) Killip class > or = 2 (OR: 4.6; 95% CI: 1.3-16.4; P=0.01) to be the only independent predictors of 6-month cardiac mortality.

CONCLUSION

Systematic transfer of elderly STEMI patients for PPCI, with a door-to-balloon time <1 h, leads to clinical results similar to those achievable in patients who present directly in hospital with cath.-lab. facilities.

Revascularization algorithm in acute STEMI should take into account age

BACKGROUND

In the elderly patients, the optimal reperfusion strategy of acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) remains a topic of debate. Moreover, there is a lack of data regarding the effect of time to treatment (TT) on prognosis of STEMI in elderly patients.

PURPOSE

The goal of our work was to analyze, in real life, the link between TT and 1-year mortality in patients with STEMI (> or =75 years) who were treated with thrombolysis (THL) or primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Data were extracted from our university hospital prospective registry. Between 1995 and 2005, all patients who met the criteria (> or =75 years old, has had an acute STEMI <12 h, has been admitted directly into our cardiologic care unit, and has had a revascularization procedure) were included in the analysis. Using logistic regression, we studied the relation between TT and 1-year mortality for each strategy of reperfusion in patients with STEMI who were > or =75 years old.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-nine consecutive patients with STEMI <12 h were analyzed; 35 were treated with THL and 124 were treated with primary PCI. Mean age (+/-S.D.) was 80+/-4 years, and 56% of patients were men. In logistic regression analysis, TT was not associated to death after THL (P=.81), while it was positively correlated after PCI (P=.03). All-cause 1-year mortality was markedly higher in the THL group than in the PCI group (51.4% vs. 15.3%; P<.001).

CONCLUSION

Our work suggests that the extrapolation of algorithm of revascularization used in younger patients is not appropriate for elderly patients. Specific algorithm of revascularization and recommendations are needed in elderly patients.

Optimal revascularization strategies for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in the elderly patient

Patients older than 75 years account for >60% of all deaths from acute myocardial infarction. Although there are accepted guidelines for treatment of acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, elderly patients tend to have a variety of conditions that can complicate decisions about the best therapy. Many elderly patients do not receive potentially lifesaving treatments, such as percutaneous coronary intervention or thrombolytic therapy, for fear of an adverse event. Those who do receive appropriate revascularization therapy often receive it later in the course of the infarct, when irreversible damage has occurred. Yet studies show that patients older than 75 years will benefit substantially from these therapies. Early treatment improves outcomes in this population, as in younger patients, despite a higher risk of complications. In this review, the evidence regarding medical and revascularization therapies in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction is critically examined.

Tree-structured risk stratification of in-hospital mortality after percutaneous coronary intervention for acute myocardial infarction: a report from the New York State percutaneous coronary intervention database

BACKGROUND

Previous risk scores have shown excellent performance. However, the need for real-time risk score computation makes their implementation in an emergent situation challenging. A more simplified approach can provide practitioners with a practical bedside risk stratification tool.

METHODS

We developed an easy-to-use tree-structured risk stratification model for patients undergoing early percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute myocardial infarction. The model was developed on the New York State PCI database for 1999 to 2000 (consisting of 5385 procedures) and was validated using the subsequent 2001 to 2002 database (consisting of 7414 procedures).

RESULTS

Tree-structured modeling identified 3 key presenting features: cardiogenic shock, congestive heart failure, and age. In the validation data set, this risk stratification model identified patient groups with in-hospital mortality ranging from 0.5% to 20.6%, more than a 20-fold increased risk. The performance of this model was similar to the Mayo Clinic Risk Score with a discriminative capacity of 82% (95% confidence interval, 79%-84%) versus 80% (95% confidence interval, 77%-82%), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing PCI for acute myocardial infarction can be readily stratified into risk categories using the tree-structured model. This provides practicing cardiologists with an internally validated and easy-to-use scheme for in-hospital mortality risk stratification.

Reducing delay in seeking treatment by patients with acute coronary syndrome and stroke: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association Council on Cardiovascular Nursing and Stroke Council

Patient delay in seeking treatment for acute coronary syndrome and stroke symptoms is the major factor limiting delivery of definitive treatment in these conditions. Despite decades of research and public education campaigns aimed at decreasing patient delay times, most patients still do not seek treatment in a timely manner. In this scientific statement, we summarize the evidence that (1) demonstrates the benefits of early treatment, (2) describes the extent of the problem of patient delay, (3) identifies the factors related to patient delay in seeking timely treatment, and (4) reveals the inadequacies of our current approaches to decreasing patient delay. Finally, we offer suggestions for clinical practice and future research.

Acute Coronary Care in the Elderly, Part II

Background— Age is an important determinant of outcomes for patients with acute coronary syndromes. However, community practice reveals a disproportionately lower use of cardiovascular medications and invasive treatment even among elderly patients who would stand to benefit. Limited trial data are available to guide care of older adults, which results in uncertainty about benefits and risks, particularly with newer medications or invasive treatments and in the setting of advanced age and complex health status.

Methods and Results— Part II of this American Heart Association scientific statement summarizes evidence on presentation and treatment of ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction in relation to age (<65, 65 to 74, 75 to 84, and ≥85 years). The purpose of this statement is to identify areas in which the evidence is sufficient to guide practice in the elderly and to highlight areas that warrant further study. Treatment-related benefits should rise in an elderly population, yet data to confirm these benefits are limited, and the heterogeneity of older populations increases treatment-associated risks. Elderly patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction more often have relative and absolute contraindications to reperfusion, so eligibility for reperfusion declines with age, and yet elderly patients are less likely to receive reperfusion even if eligible. Data support a benefit from reperfusion in elderly subgroups up to age 85 years. The selection of reperfusion strategy is determined more by availability, time from presentation, shock, and comorbidity than by age. Additional data are needed on selection and dosing of adjunctive therapies and on complications in the elderly. A “one-size-fits-all” approach to care in the oldest old is not feasible, and ethical issues will remain even in the presence of adequate evidence. Nevertheless, if the contributors to treatment benefits and risks are understood, guideline-recommended care may be applied in a patient-centered manner in the oldest subset of patients.

Conclusions— Few trials have adequately described treatment effects in older patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction. In the future, absolute and relative risks for efficacy and safety in age subgroups should be reported, and trials should make efforts to enroll the elderly in proportion to their prevalence among the treated population. Outcomes of particular relevance to the older adult, such as quality of life, physical function, and independence, should also be evaluated, and geriatric conditions unique to this age group, such as frailty and cognitive impairment, should be considered for their influence on care and outcomes. With these efforts, treatment risks can be minimized, and benefits can be placed within the health context of the elderly patient.

Results of primary percutaneous coronary intervention in a consecutive group of patients with acute ST elevation myocardial infarction at a tertiary Australian centre

BACKGROUND

Multicentre randomized controlled trials (RCT) of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) have consistently shown lower mortality compared with fibrinolysis, if carried out in a timely manner. Although primary PCI is now standard of care in many centres, it remains unknown whether results from RCT of selected patients are generalizable to a 'real-world' Australian setting. The primary goal of this study was to evaluate whether a strategy of routine invasive management for patients with STEMI can achieve 30-day and 12-month mortality rates comparable with multicentre RCT. Secondary goals were to determine 30-day mortality rates in prespecified high-risk subgroups, and symptom-onset- and door-to-balloon-inflation times.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study of 189 consecutive patients treated with primary PCI for STEMI in a single Australian centre performing PCI for acute STEMI.

RESULTS

All-cause mortality was 6.9% at 30 days, and 10.4% at 12 months. Mortality in patients presenting without cardiogenic shock was low (2.4% at 30 days; 5.0% at 12 months), whereas 12-month mortality in patients with shock was higher, particularly in the elderly (29.4% for patients <75 years; 85.7% for patients > or =75 years, P = 0.01). Symptom-onset-to-balloon-inflation time was < or =4 h in 56% of patients (median 231 min); however, a door-to-balloon time of <90 min was achieved in only 20% (median 133 min).

CONCLUSION

Mortality and symptom-onset-to-balloon-inflation times reported in RCT of primary PCI for STEMI are generalizable to 'real-world' Australian practice; however, further efforts to reduce door-to-balloon times are required.

An Invasive Strategy Is Associated With Decreased Mortality in Patients 80 Years and Older With Acute Myocardial Infarction

The value of invasive therapy in elderly patients with acute myocardial infarction is controversial. The authors performed a retrospective chart review of 140 consecutive patients 80 years and older who were hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction. Hospital outcomes and long-term survival were compared in 79 patients referred for cardiac catheterization during hospitalization with outcomes in 61 patients managed conservatively. Vital status as of December 2003 was determined from the Social Security Death Index. Propensity analysis was used to limit confounding from 13 variables. After a mean follow-up of 333 days, unadjusted mortality was lower in the invasive group (16.5% vs 50.8%; P<.001). The multivariable propensity-adjusted hazard ratio for death was 0.30 (95% confidence interval, 0.11-0.76; P=.01), favoring the invasive group. These data suggest that in patients 80 years and older who are hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction, an invasive strategy confers a significant survival advantage during the first year after hospital discharge.

Increasingly well-preserved left ventricular function in hospital survivors with acute myocardial infarction: effect of early and complete reperfusion strategy on left ventricular remodeling

BACKGROUND

Progress in reperfusion therapy for acute myocardial infarction (AMI) has greatly reduced acute phase mortality, but few data exist regarding the time trends in left ventricular (LV) remodeling in hospital survivors of AMI.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The study enrolled 813 patients with AMI who had received reperfusion therapy and survived to hospital discharge. The patients were divided into chronological groups: first treatment received between 1989 and 1992, n=196; 1993 and 1995, n=193; 1996 and 1998, n=211; and 1999 and 2002, n=213. A comparison was made of LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and LV end-diastolic volume index (LVEDVI) at 6 months after symptom onset. Along with the temporal improvements reperfusion therapy, LVEF and LVEDVI improved over time (55+/-14, 58+/-13, 59+/-13, 61+/-13%, p<0.001; 98+/-30, 94+/-27, 90+/-31, 76+/-27 ml/m2, p<0.0001). Multiregression analysis revealed that shortening of the door-to-Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI)-3 time (time interval from arrival at the emergency room until patients achieved TIMI-3 flow) and achieving substantial TIMI-3 flow were independent predictors for LV remodeling.

CONCLUSION

Although this was a retrospective analysis, the results demonstrated that the change in reperfusion therapy aiming at complete reperfusion at an earlier stage after AMI onset has contributed to improving post-MI remodeling.

Outcome of elderly patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention for acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction

AIM

To investigate the outcome of primary percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) in elderly patients (>/=>/=75 years) with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Between 1995 and 2003, a total of 319 consecutive patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction presenting within 6-12 hr after onset of symptoms were prospectively enrolled in a registry. Of 296 patients undergoing primary PCI, 40 patients were >/=>/=75 years old (group A) and 256 patients younger than 75 years (group B). Elderly patients presented with a lower ejection fraction (49 +/- 14% vs. 53 +/- 13%, P = 0.046) and a higher number of cardiovascular risk factors. PCI success was achieved in 80% (group A) and 91% (group B, P = 0.031), respectively with comparable door-to-balloon times (87 +/- 49 and 95 +/- 79 min, P = ns). Periprocedural complications in both groups were low and major adverse cardiac events (death, myocardial infarction, target vessel revascularization and cardiac rehospitalization) after 6 months amounted to 23% (group A) and 20% (group B, P = ns), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical outcome of elderly patients (>/=>/=75 years) with acute STEMI is favorable and comparable with the middle-aged population. However, procedural success was significantly lower in elderly (80%) compared to younger patients (90%). Acute percutaneous coronary intervention appears to be safe and not associated with higher periprocedural complications, in elderly patients.

Results of percutaneous coronary interventions in patients ≥90 years of age

BACKGROUND

There are few data about percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) in nonagenarians (patients aged > or =90 years). This study aimed to assess acute and intermediate term clinical outcomes among nonagenarian patients undergoing PCI.

METHODS

The study included 65 consecutive patients, age > or =90 years undergoing PCI between January 2001 and August 2006. Fourteen patients were admitted with acute ST elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEAMI), one had cardiogenic shock, 39 patients sustained non-STEAMI, and 12 patients were with severe stable angina pectoris. Procedural data, in-hospital, and six-month clinical outcomes were obtained and adjudicated for all patients.

RESULTS

Coronary angiography documented multivessel disease in 86% of patients with relatively complex lesions (type B or C) in 94% treated using stent deployment in 92% of patients. In 7% of cases IABP was needed. Immediate procedural success was achieved in 92% patients. Cumulative mortality at hospital discharge and by 30-days was 14% and increased to 18% at 6-months follow-up. Total major adverse cardiac events (MACE: death, AMI, TVR, stroke) was 17% at hospital discharge and increased to 21% by 6-months. Stroke was documented in one patient (1.5%) at hospital discharge. Cumulative mortality at 6 month was 0% in patients with stable angina and 23% in emergent PCI scenario (AMI or NSTEAMI or ACS). Univariate analysis revealed that emergent PCI, systolic blood pressure, left ventricular ejection fraction, diabetes mellitus, renal failure, TIMI flow at baseline, and procedural success, are all correlative with 6-months mortality.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that clinically stable nonagenarian patients with coronary artery disease undergoing PCI have excellent PCI related prognosis while clinically unstable patients have a worse outcome. Thus, careful attention to background medical history and clinical presentation should dictate the prognosis and/or management among nonagenarian patients.

Characteristics and outcome of patients with ST-elevation infarction in relation to whether they received thrombolysis or underwent acute coronary angiography: are we selecting the right patients for coronary angiography?

BACKGROUND

During the last decade, there has been an on-going debate with regard to whether percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or thrombolysis should be preferred in patients with ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Some studies clearly advocate PCI, while others do not.

HYPOTHESIS

The study aimed to describe the characteristics and to evaluate outcome of patients with suspected ST-elevation or left bundle-branch block infarction in relation to whether they received thrombolysis or had an acute coronary angiography aiming at angioplasty.

METHODS

The study included all patients admitted to Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Göteborg, Sweden, with suspected acute myocardial infarction who, during 1995-1999, had ST-elevation or left bundle-branch block on admission electrocardiogram (ECG) requiring either thrombolysis or acute coronary angiography. A retrospective evaluation with a follow-up of 1 year after the intervention was made.

RESULTS

In all, 413 patients had thrombolytic treatment and 400 had acute coronary angiography. The patients who received thrombolysis were older (mean age 70.3 vs. 64.1 years). Mortality during 1 year of follow-up was 20.9% in the thrombolysis group and 16.6% in the angiography group (p = 0.12). Among patients in whom acute coronary angiography was performed, only 85% underwent acute percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). There was a mortality of 12.1 vs. 41.7% among those who did not undergo acute PCI. Development of reinfarction, stroke, and requirement of rehospitalization was similar regardless of type of initial intervention. The thrombolysis group more frequently required new coronary angiography (36.9 vs. 20.6%; p<0.0001) and new PCI (17.8 vs. 11.9%; p = 0.01). Despite this, after 1 year symptoms of angina pectoris were observed in 27% of patients in the thrombolysis group and in only 14% of those in the angiography group (p = 0.0002).

CONCLUSION

In a Swedish university hospital with a high volume of coronary angioplasty procedures, we found no significant difference in mortality between patients who had thrombolysis and those who underwent acute coronary angiography. However, requirement of revascularization and symptoms of angina pectoris 1 year later was considerably less frequent in those who had undergone acute coronary angiography. However, distribution of baseline characteristics was skewed and efforts should be focused on the selection of patients for the different reperfusion strategies.

Reducing Delay in Seeking Treatment by Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome and Stroke

Patient delay in seeking treatment for acute coronary syndrome and stroke symptoms is the major factor limiting delivery of definitive treatment in these conditions. Despite decades of research and public education campaigns aimed at decreasing patient delay times, most patients still do not seek treatment in a timely manner. In this scientific statement, we summarize the evidence that (1) demonstrates the benefits of early treatment, (2) describes the extent of the problem of patient delay, (3) identifies the factors related to patient delay in seeking timely treatment, and (4) reveals the inadequacies of our current approaches to decreasing patient delay. Finally, we offer suggestions for clinical practice and future research.