Gender Differences in Peripheral Vascular Disease

Shortcut learning leads to sex bias in deep learning models for photoacoustic tomography

PURPOSE

Shortcut learning has been identified as a source of algorithmic unfairness in medical imaging artificial intelligence (AI), but its impact on photoacoustic tomography (PAT), particularly concerning sex bias, remains underexplored. This study investigates this issue using peripheral artery disease (PAD) diagnosis as a specific clinical application.

METHODS

To examine the potential for sex bias due to shortcut learning in convolutional neural network (CNNs) and assess how such biases might affect diagnostic predictions, we created training and test datasets with varying PAD prevalence between sexes. Using these datasets, we explored (1) whether CNNs can classify the sex from imaging data, (2) how sex-specific prevalence shifts impact PAD diagnosis performance and underdiagnosis disparity between sexes, and (3) how similarly CNNs encode sex and PAD features.

RESULTS

Our study with 147 individuals demonstrates that CNNs can classify the sex from calf muscle PAT images, achieving an AUROC of 0.75. For PAD diagnosis, models trained on data with imbalanced sex-specific disease prevalence experienced significant performance drops (up to 0.21 AUROC) when applied to balanced test sets. Additionally, greater imbalances in sex-specific prevalence within the training data exacerbated underdiagnosis disparities between sexes. Finally, we identify evidence of shortcut learning by demonstrating the effective reuse of learned feature representations between PAD diagnosis and sex classification tasks.

CONCLUSION

CNN-based models trained on PAT data may engage in shortcut learning by leveraging sex-related features, leading to biased and unreliable diagnostic predictions. Addressing demographic-specific prevalence imbalances and preventing shortcut learning is critical for developing models in the medical field that are both accurate and equitable across diverse patient populations.

Evaluation of the utility of cardiac biomarkers for risk stratification in patients with lower extremity artery disease: A retrospective study

Critical limb threatening ischemia (CLTI) is associated with a one-year mortality rate of up to 25% making prompt diagnosis essentially. This study aims to investigate if cardiac biomarkers may serve as an effective tool for risk stratification in patients with lower extremity artery disease (LEAD). For this cross-sectional retrospective analysis, 21712 patients with LEAD were screened for eligibility from 2004 to 2020. Out of these patients, 367 were included and subdivided into those with CLTI and those without CLTI. Cardiac biomarkers, including N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), troponin, NT-proBNP/troponin ratio, creatin kinase myocardial band (CK-MB) and myoglobin, were retrospectively analyzed. Fifty-nine patients had CLTI (16.1%) with higher rates of NT-proBNP, NT-proBNP/troponin ratio, CK-MB and myoglobin (all p < 0.05) compared to non-CLTI patients. In univariate analysis, NT-proBNP, NT-proBNP/troponin ratio, CK-MB, myoglobin, age, C-reactive protein and non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) were associated with CLTI (all p < 0.05). In multivariate analysis, age and NIDDM remained significant predictors (all p < 0.05) while cardiac biomarkers were not independently associated with CLTI. Troponin, NT-proBNP and myoglobin were associated with mortality in univariate analysis (all p < 0.05). In multivariate analysis, troponin only remains to be associated with mortality (p = 0.001). Selected cardiac biomarkers failed to demonstrate statistically significant differentiation between CLTI and non-CLTI patients with LEAD, while troponin may be potentially associated with mortality.

Age and Gender Difference in the Association of Metabolic Syndrome and Peripheral Artery Disease Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Purpose: Our study is aimed at exploring the association between peripheral artery disease (PAD) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) across different age and gender groups among patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Patients and Methods: A total of 3638 patients with T2DM were enrolled in the study, including 281 patients with PAD and 3357 patients without PAD. Demographic data and anthropometric measurements, such as height, weight, and waist circumference, were collected. Laboratory tests and ankle-brachial index (ABI) assessment were also conducted. Multiple logistic regression was used to evaluate the relationship between PAD and the number of MetS components across different age and gender groups. Results: After adjusting for potential confounding factors, our results indicated that the ORs for the presence of PAD increased progressively with the number of MetS components. Stratified analysis showed that this effect was particularly pronounced in younger patients (aged < 40 years) and older patients (aged ≥ 60 years), where the risk of PAD rose with an increasing number of MetS components. Furthermore, the positive association between the number of MetS components and PAD presence was significantly stronger in females. Conclusions: In summary, our findings suggest that the risk of PAD is positively correlated with the number of MetS components in patients with T2DM, especially among younger patients and older patients. Additionally, the positive association between the number of MetS components and the presence of PAD was significantly more evident in female patients.

External validity of randomized clinical trials in vascular surgery: systematic review of demographic factors of patients recruited to randomized clinical trials with comparison to the National Vascular Registry

BACKGROUND

Evidence-based medicine relies on randomized clinical trials, which should represent the patients encountered in clinical practice. Characteristics of patients recruited to randomized clinical trials involving vascular index operations (carotid endarterectomy, abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, infrainguinal bypass and major lower limb amputations) were compared with those recorded in the National Vascular Registry across England and Wales.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, CENTRAL, clinicaltrials.gov and World Health Organization International Trials Registry Platform (CRD42021247905) were searched for randomized clinical trials involving the index operations. Demographic (age, sex, ethnicity) and clinical (co-morbidities, medications, body mass index, smoking, alcohol, cognition) data were extracted, by operation. Characteristics of operated on patients were extracted from publicly available National Vascular Registry reports (2014-2020). All findings are reported according to PRISMA guidelines. Rayyan.AI, Excel and GraphPad Prism were used for screening and analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 307 randomized clinical trials (66 449 patients) were included and compared with National Vascular Registry data for 119 019 patients. Randomized clinical trial patients were younger across all operations; for carotid endarterectomy, bypass and major lower limb amputation randomized clinical trials, there were differences in female patient representation. Further comparisons were limited by the insufficient baseline data reporting across randomized clinical trials, though reporting improved over decades. National Vascular Registry reports lacked information on patient factors such as patient ethnicity or body mass index.

CONCLUSIONS

There are significant differences in demographic and clinical factors between patients recruited to vascular surgery randomized clinical trials and the real-world National Vascular Registry vascular surgery patient population. Minimum reporting standards for baseline data should be defined to allow future randomized clinical trials to represent real-world patient populations and ensure the external validity of their results.

Sex-Dependent Differences in the Elemental Composition of Internal Organs Determined via Total Reflection X-Ray Fluorescence and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy

BACKGROUND

Research on elemental changes in tissues and organs provides valuable information enabling better understanding of the physiological processes occurring in a living organism, as well as the pathogenesis and course of various diseases. They may also contribute to the development of new, more effective, and safer therapeutic strategies. So far, they have been carried out mainly on male individuals because of the easier planning and conducting of experiments as well as the lower variability of the results in comparison with studies involving females.

METHODS

The significance of incorporating both sexes in research concerning elemental alterations of tissues may be unveiled by data concerning the influence of sex on the physiological levels of selected elements in various rat organs. Therefore, here we determined and compared the levels of P, S, K, Ca, Fe, Cu, Zn, and Se in brains, hearts, kidneys, livers, and spleens taken from male and female rats. To measure the concentrations of the elements in digested tissue samples, ICP-OES and TXRF methods were utilized.

RESULTS

Significant differences between male and female rats were found for all the organs examined, and the concentrations of most of the tested elements were higher in males than females. The exception was Fe, the level of which in the kidneys and liver was higher in female rats. Sex influenced the elemental composition of spleen the most. For the brain, heart, kidneys, and liver, differences were sparse and were found mainly for the heavier elements.

Reporting and analysis of sex in vascular surgery research

OBJECTIVE

To examine sex in human vascular surgery research by quantifying the inclusion and analysis of sex-based data in high-impact vascular surgery journals.

METHODS

A bibliographic review of original articles published in the European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Journal of Vascular Surgery, JVS: Venous and Lymphatic Disorders, Journal of Endovascular Therapy, and Annals of Vascular Surgery from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2020, and from January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023, was conducted. Abstracted data included sex-based data analysis, inclusion of sex as a variable in multivariable analysis, inclusion of sex as an independent variable, and a discussion of sex-based results.

RESULTS

Of the 3762 articles that included human, animal, or cell subjects, 249 (6.6%) did not state sex. Of those 249 articles, 183 included human subjects, 55 included animal subjects, and 11 used cell lines as the subjects. These were removed from analysis as well as the remaining 68 articles with animal subjects. In addition, 23 researched a sex-specific pathology and were removed from analysis. Of the remaining 3422 articles included in our study, 42.3% analyzed sex, 46.9% included sex in multivariable analysis, 4.8% included sex as an independent variable, and 26.6% included a discussion of sex. There were no significant differences in all four sex variables between 2018, 2019, and 2020. Between 2018-2020 and 2023, there were significant increases in all four sex variables. Multicenter studies had significantly higher rates of independent analysis of sex over single-center studies (7.4% vs 3.3%, P < .001). There was no significant difference in independent analysis of sex between U.S.-based and non-U.S.-based studies. Only 191 articles (5.6%) had 90% or greater matching of men and women in their study.

CONCLUSIONS

Equitable inclusion and analysis of sex is rare in vascular surgery research. Less than 5% of articles included an independent analysis of data by sex, and few studies included males and females equally. Clinical research is the basis for evidence-based medicine; therefore, it is important to strive for equitable inclusion, analysis, and reporting of data to foster generalizability of clinical research to men and women.

Evaluation of sex-based differences in below-the-knee plaque histology in patients who underwent amputation for chronic limb-threatening ischemia

Objective

With the growing incidence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and the historic under-representation of female patients in cardiovascular trials, a comprehensive evaluation of sex-based variances in PAD presentation and treatment outcomes is needed. This study aims to evaluate sex-based differences in the vessel wall characteristics of patients who underwent amputation owing to critical limb-threatening ischemia to optimize personalized treatment planning and aid in the selection of endovascular devices for PAD patients.

Methods

A total of 35 lower limbs were collected from 34 patients with end-stage PAD undergoing major amputation. We selected, harvested, and cross-sectioned at 3- to 4-mm intervals 163 diseased below-the-knee arterial segments resulting in 1260 arterial rings. Histological analyses were conducted on each individual ring and later summarized by arterial segment.

Results

Male and female patients were remarkably similar across multiple plaque characteristics, including degree of stenosis, calcification severity and localization, and atherosclerotic patterns. A significant sex-based difference was noted in the presence of luminal thrombus, which was more prevalent in females (38.7% vs 25.0%; P = .016). Histopathological differences were noted between popliteal and tibial lesions, with popliteal segments demonstrating increased chronic total occlusion presence and atherosclerosis, whereas severe calcification occurred more often in tibial segments. A sex-based evaluation of the popliteal segments showed increased calcification (60.71% vs 28.0%; P = .003) and atherosclerosis (96.4% vs 73.0%; P = .028) in males compared with females.

Conclusions

Differences in the degree of calcification, incidence of atherosclerosis, and presence of luminal thrombus may pose important clinical implications for antiplatelet and anticoagulation regimen choice and guide treatment options. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the impact of these differences on outcomes of endovascular procedures.

Peripheral arterial disease in women

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) represents one of the most frequent manifestations of atherosclerosis in men and women. In both sexes, PAD is related to classical risk factors of atherosclerosis, which are similarly distributed, but some additional factors determine differences between men and women. More frequent asymptomatic disease in women than in men and less frequent screening in women may result in a false underestimation of the prevalence of PAD in women. All these factors may cause delayed diagnosis and treatment of PAD in women. Estrogen hormones have vasoprotective properties that lower the prevalence of atherosclerosis in women of younger age. However, estrogen probably does not have a protective role against the development of cardiovascular disease in women of an older age. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) of less than one year does not appear to reduce the odds of developing PAD in postmenopausal women. It may even increase the risk of morbidity from vascular interventions. However, some studies indicated that HRT for more than one year significantly decreases the risk of PAD if administered early after the last menstruation. Also, treatment of PAD in women differs to some extent from men.

The Impact of Mental Health on Patient Outcomes in Peripheral Arterial Disease and Critical Limb Threatening Ischemia and Potential Avenues to Treatment

The physical consequences of peripheral artery disease (PAD) are well established; however, the impact of comorbid mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety are not well understood. The impact of psychological stress is not only associated with worse perioperative morbidity and mortality but also with a physiologic cascade that accelerates plaque formation. Increasing screening to identify and subsequently treat comorbid mental health disorders is an integral next step in improving outcomes in PAD management. Failure to adequately address social and psychological impact on PAD patients will further widen the gap in disparities faced by high-risk and disenfranchised populations. Integration of mental health professionals, addiction specialists, and community navigators into multidisciplinary care teams can bolster support for PAD patients and improve outcomes.

Sex Differences in Mortality Risk after the First Hospitalisation with Lower Extremity Peripheral Arterial Disease

OBJECTIVE

Lower extremity peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a severe condition that increases the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events, major adverse limb events, and all cause mortality. This study aimed to investigate the mortality risk among females and males hospitalised for the first time with lower extremity PAD.

METHODS

Three cohorts of patients who were admitted for the first time with lower extremity PAD in 2007 - 2010, 2011 - 2014, and 2015 - 2018 were constructed. For the 2007 - 2010 and 2011 - 2014 cohorts, the 28 day, one year, and five year mortality rates were calculated, assessing survival time from date of hospital admission until date of death, end of study period, or censoring. For the 2015 - 2018 cohort, only 28 day and one year mortality were investigated due to lack of follow up data. Mortality rates of these cohorts were compared with the general population using standardised mortality rates (SMRs), and the risk of death between sexes was evaluated using Cox proportional hazards models. Cox models were adjusted for age, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes mellitus to account for potential confounding factors.

RESULTS

In total, 7 950, 9 670, and 13 522 patients were included in the 2007 - 2010, 2011 - 2014, and 2015 - 2018 cohorts, respectively. Over 60% of individuals in each cohort were males. Mortality rates at 28 day and one year remained stable across all cohorts, while the five year mortality rate increased for both males and females in the 2011 - 2014 cohort. The SMRs both of females and males with PAD were significantly higher than in the general population. Multivariable regression analyses found no significant differences in mortality risk between sexes at 28 day and one year. However, the five year mortality risk was lower in females, with a hazard ratio of 0.89 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.83 - 0.97) in the 2007 - 2010 cohort and 0.88 (95% CI 0.82 - 0.94) in the 2011 - 2014 cohort.

CONCLUSION

The five year mortality risk has increased, and females face a lower mortality risk than males. Lower extremity PAD still carries unfavourable long term consequences compared with the general population.

View on Metformin: Antidiabetic and Pleiotropic Effects, Pharmacokinetics, Side Effects, and Sex-Related Differences

Metformin is a synthetic biguanide used as an antidiabetic drug in type 2 diabetes mellitus, achieved by studying the bioactive metabolites of Galega officinalis L. It is also used off-label for various other diseases, such as subclinical diabetes, obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome, etc. In addition, metformin is proposed as an add-on therapy for several conditions, including autoimmune diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. Although metformin has been used for many decades, it is still the subject of many pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic studies in light of its extensive use. Metformin acts at the mitochondrial level by inhibiting the respiratory chain, thus increasing the AMP/ATP ratio and, subsequently, activating the AMP-activated protein kinase. However, several other mechanisms have been proposed, including binding to presenilin enhancer 2, increasing GLP1 release, and modification of microRNA expression. Regarding its pharmacokinetics, after oral administration, metformin is absorbed, distributed, and eliminated, mainly through the renal route, using transporters for cationic solutes, since it exists as an ionic molecule at physiological pH. In this review, particular consideration has been paid to literature data from the last 10 years, deepening the study of clinical trials inherent to new uses of metformin, the differences in effectiveness and safety observed between the sexes, and the unwanted side effects. For this last objective, metformin safety was also evaluated using both VigiBase and EudraVigilance, respectively, the WHO and European databases of the reported adverse drug reactions, to assess the extent of metformin side effects in real-life use.

Outcomes of balloon angioplasty and stent placement for iliac artery lesions classified as TASC II A, B: a single-center study

Background

Iliac artery stenosis or occlusion is a critical condition that can severely impact a patient's quality of life. The effectiveness of balloon angioplasty and intraluminal stenting for the treatment of iliac artery lesions classified as TASC II A and B was evaluated in this single-center prospective study.

Methods

Conducted between October 2016 and September 2020 at Cho Ray Hospital's Vascular Surgery Department, this prospective study involved PAD patients categorized by TASC II A and B classifications who underwent endovascular intervention. Intervention outcomes were assessed peri-procedure and during short-term and mid-term follow-ups.

Results

Of the total of 133 patients, 34.6% underwent balloon angioplasty, while 65.4% received stenting. The immediate technical success rate was 97.7%, while the clinical success rate was 62.4%. Complications were minimal, with major limb amputation reported in 1.5% of the cases. There was a significant improvement in Rutherford classification and ABI at short-term follow-up, with a patency rate of 90.2%. The mid-term post-intervention follow-up yielded similar results with an 86.1% patency rate. The mortality rates associated with arterial occlusion were 2.3% during short-term follow-up and 1.7% during mid-term follow-up.

Conclusion

Balloon angioplasty and stent placement are effective and safe interventions for TASC II A and B iliac artery occlusions with favorable short and mid-term outcomes. Further, multi-center studies with larger sample sizes are recommended for more comprehensive conclusions, including long-term follow-up assessment.

Toe brachial index and not ankle brachial index is appropriate in initial evaluation of peripheral arterial disease in type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Non-invasive clinic-based tools for assessing PAD are not without limitations. Therefore, costly tests like Doppler study, CT angiography and MR angiography are often required to make a diagnosis. Ankle brachial index (ABI), commonly used for assessment of PAD, has high false positivity rates in sclerosed, calcified arteries which render them non-compressible. Toe brachial index (TBI) can be an alternative, as digital arteries are relatively unaffected by these changes.

AIM

To compare the reliability of ABI and TBI in diagnosing PAD in type 2 diabetes using CT angiography (CTA) as the reference.

METHODS

175 adults with T2D were selected. ABI &TBI were measured with an automated vascular Doppler XT 6 ports bilaterally for all subjects. For any subject, the limb with lower ABI and TBI was included for analysis. ABI < 0.9 & TBI < 0.6 were taken as evidence of PAD. CTA showing > 50% narrowing was taken as evidence of PAD.

RESULTS

24% of our study subjects had CTA confirmed PAD. ABI has low sensitivity of 35.29% (95% CI 0.21-0.52) compared to TBI being 82.35% (95% CI 0.66-0.92). The specificity however was similar. ABI < 0.9 was able to detect CTA confirmed PAD, but ABI > 0.9, including the so-called normal ABI (0.9-1.3) was unable to detect PAD. ROC showed ABI at 1.005 has sensitivity 64.71% (95% CI 0.48- 0.79) and specificity 61.7% (95% CI 0.53-0.69) and TBI at 0.6 has sensitivity 82.35% (95% CI 0.66-0.92) & specificity 92% (95% CI 0.87-0.96). Utilizing Cohen's Kappa, the reliability of ABI with respect to CTA showed fair agreement (K = 0.225, p = 0.001), whereas the reliability of TBI with respect to CTA showed substantial agreement (K = 0.759, p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

ABI < 0.9 detects PAD reliably, but presence of PAD in patients with ABI > 9.0 including the normal of ABI (0.9-1.3) can be confirmed with TBI, which correlated strongly with CTA. TBI is also non-inferior for PAD detection, when ABI < 0.9. TBI and not ABI can be utilized for initial assessment of PAD in subjects with T2D.

The Pink Tax: Sex and Gender Disparities in Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is an atherosclerotic disease associated with significant functional impairment, morbidity, and mortality. Among women, PAD remains poorly recognized and undermanaged. Compared with men, women with PAD tend to be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed, have poorer quality of life, and experience higher rates of PAD-related morbidity and cardiovascular mortality. In this review, we describe the sex- and gender-related differences in the epidemiology, presentation, diagnosis, and management of PAD. We provide specific recommendations to overcome these factors, including greater awareness and an increased emphasis on tailored and more aggressive interventions for women with PAD. Such changes are warranted and necessary to achieve more equitable outcomes in women with PAD, including improved limb outcomes, enhanced lifestyle, and cardiovascular risk reduction.

Arterial dissection during peripheral vascular interventions

OBJECTIVE

Arterial dissection (AD) is a known complication of peripheral vascular interventions (PVIs), but its incidence and significance have not been well-characterized. This study examines AD in the Vascular Quality Initiative database for patients treated for peripheral arterial disease. Our hypothesis is that AD is associated with decreased patency and worse limb outcomes.

METHODS

The Vascular Quality Initiative PVI registry (2016-2021) was reviewed. Patients were divided based on the presence or absence of reported AD during the procedure. Trend of incidence and management of AD was derived. The characteristics and outcomes of patients with and without AD were compared. The primary endpoint was primary patency.

RESULTS

There was a total of 177,790 cases, and 3% had AD. The incidence of AD significantly increased over the study period from 2.4% to 3.6% (P = .007). Endovascular therapy was used to treat AD in 83.7% of cases, 14.5% were treated medically, and only 1.8% required open surgery. Patients with AD were significantly more likely to be female (47.4% vs 39.7%; P < .001). Patient with AD were more likely to have a history of smoking (79.7% vs 77.2%; P < .001), but were significantly less likely to be on dialysis (8.2% vs 9.3%; P < .001) compared with patients without AD. Patients with AD were more likely to have femoropopliteal disease (45.2% vs 38.0%; P < .001) and undergo treatment of more complex disease as denoted by higher mean number of lesions treated (1.95 ± 1.01 vs 1.71 ± 0.89; P < .001), longer occlusion length (8 ± 16 vs 7 ± 15 cm; P < .001), and more severe TransAtlantic Inter-Society Consensus grade (Grade D: 36.2% vs 29.1%; P < .001). The proportion of stenting as a treatment modality was higher in the dissection group (55.4% vs 41.1%; P < .001). After a mean follow-up of 828 days, patients with AD had significantly lower primary patency than patients without AD. Kaplan-Meier curves demonstrated that the AD group had lower primary patency (86.9% vs 91%; P < .001) and reintervention-free survival (79.5 % vs 84.1%; P < .001) at 1 year with difference in amputation-free survival. Cox proportional hazard regression confirmed the independent association of AD with primary patency and reintervention-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS

AD is more common in women and is more likely to occur during treatment of the femoropopliteal segment. AD is associated with decreased primary patency and reintervention-free survival after PVI for peripheral arterial disease.

Physiological responses during walking in men and women with intermittent claudication

BACKGROUND

Miyasato et al. show that peak oxygen consumption, walking economy, anaerobic threshold, and cardiovascular responses (heart rate, blood pressure, and rate pressure product) during walking were similar between men and women with peripheral artery disease and intermittent claudication. There were no differences in the physiological responses to walking between men and women with intermittent claudication. Sex per se is not a factor that demands changes in walking prescription for patients with intermittent claudication.

OBJECTIVE

Peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), anaerobic threshold, walking economy, and cardiovascular responses during walking are used to guide and monitor walking training in patients with peripheral artery disease and intermittent claudication. Women with peripheral artery disease and intermittent claudication present greater impairments than men, and evaluating training markers according to sex for decisions regarding walking prescription in this population is important. This study aimed to compare VO2peak, walking economy, anaerobic threshold, and cardiovascular responses during walking in men and women with peripheral artery disease and intermittent claudication.

METHODS

Forty patients (20 men and 20 women with similar baseline characteristics) underwent a cardiopulmonary treadmill test (3.2km/h and 2% increase in slope every 2 minutes until maximal leg pain). The VO2 and rate-pressure product were assessed. Data from men and women were compared using t-tests.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between men and women (VO2peak: 15.0±4.8 versus 13.9±2.9mL∙kg-1∙min-1, p=0.38; walking economy: 9.6±2.7 versus 8.4±1.6mL∙kg-1∙min-1, p=0.09; anaerobic threshold: 10.5±3.2 versus 10.5±2.2mL∙kg-1∙min-1, p=0.98; rate pressure product at 1st stage: 13,465± 2,910 versus 14,445±4,379bpm∙mmHg, p=0.41; and rate pressure product at anaerobic threshold:13,673±3,100 versus 16,390±5,870bpm∙mmHg, p=0.08 and rate pressure product at peak exercise: 21,253±6,141 versus 21,923±7,414bpm∙mmHg, p=0.76, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Men and women with peripheral artery disease and similar baseline characteristics presented similar responses to walking, suggesting that decisions regarding walking prescription and monitoring can be made regardless of sex in this specific population.

A systematic review of disparities in the medical management of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in females

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States and worldwide. Medical management of known modifiable risk factors, such as dyslipidemia, hypertension, and diabetes, is a key aspect to its treatment. Unfortunately, there are substantial sex-based differences in the treatment of ASCVD that result in poor medical management and worse clinical outcomes. The objective of this systematic review was to summarize known disparities in the medical management of ASCVD in females. We included prior studies with specific sex- and sex-based analyses regarding the medical treatment of the following three major disease entities within ASCVD: cerebrovascular disease, coronary artery disease, and peripheral artery disease. A total of 43 articles met inclusion criteria. In our analysis, we found that females were less likely to receive appropriate treatment of dyslipidemia or be prescribed antithrombotic medications. However, treatment differences for diabetes and hypertension by sex were not as clearly represented in the included studies. In addition to rectifying these disparities in the medical management of ASCVD, this systematic review highlights the need to address larger issues, such as underrepresentation of females in clinical trials, decreased access to care, and underdiagnosis of ASCVD to improve overall care for females.

Ankle systolic pressure index in non-diabetic non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A case-control study

INTRODUCTION

Several studies have shown that mortality in Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) or metabolic steatopathy is more related to cardiovascular diseases than to hepatic complications. Our work aimed to verify the relationship between this liver disease and the ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI), which is a good screening tool for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and a reliable marker of cardiovascular risk.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective sex- and age-matched case-control study was conducted in non-diabetic patients aged 30 to 70 years. All patients underwent a clinical and biological evaluation. Hepatic steatosis was diagnosed by ultrasound. All participants had their ankle-brachial pressure index measured using a Dopplex® Pocket Doppler in addition to arterial ultrasound of the supra-aortic trunk and a carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (CfPWV) measurement. An ABPI<0.9 was considered pathological (suggestive of PAD). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 21.0 software (IBM).

RESULTS

In total, 213 NAFLD patients (100 men/113 women) with a mean age of 48.5±10.14 years were matched to 213 controls. Metabolic syndrome (MS) was more common in NAFLD than in controls, regardless of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF 2005) criteria used (P<0.001). Low ABPI (<0.90) was noted in 19 (8.9%) NAFLD patients vs. 5 (2.3%) in controls (P=0.003). The mean age of these patients was 48.8±8.6 years with a female predominance (20 patients). 62.5% reported dyslipidemia on questioning, 70.8% a metabolic syndrome according to the IDF and 12.5% (3/24) of them were active smokers. There were no records of mediacalcosis. PAD was significantly associated with NAFLD in univariate analysis (OR=4.0 CI 95% (1.4-11.1)). Factors independently associated with PAD in NAFLD patients were nocturnal systolic blood pressure, smoking, thigh circumference, and being a female.

CONCLUSION

The findings of our study show a significant association between NAFLD and low ABPI, likely reflecting the high vascular risk of this patient population.

Gender disparities in patients with aortoiliac disease requiring open operative intervention

OBJECTIVE

Peripheral artery disease is known to affect males and females in different proportions. Disparate surgical outcomes have been quantified after endovascular aortic aneurysm repair, arteriovenous fistula creation, and treatment of critical limb ischemia. The aim of this study is to objectively quantify the sex differences in outcomes in patients undergoing open surgical intervention for aortoiliac occlusive disease.

METHODS

Patients were identified in the aortoiliac occlusive disease Vascular Quality Initiative database who underwent aorto-bifemoral bypass or aortic thromboendarterectomy as determined by Current Procedural Terminology codes between 2012 and 2019. Patients with a minimum of 1-year follow-up were included. Risk differences (RDs) by sex were calculated using a binomial regression model in 30-day and 1-year incidence of mortality and limb salvage. Additionally, incidence of surgical complications including prolonged length of stay (>10 days), reoperation, and change in renal function (>0.5 mg/dl rise from baseline), were recorded. Inverse probability weighting was used to standardize demographic and medical history characteristics. Multivariate logistic regression models were employed to conduct analyses of the before mentioned clinical outcomes, controlling for known confounders.

RESULTS

Of 16,218 eligible patients from the VQI data during the study period, 6538 (40.3%) were female. The mean age, body mass index, and race were not statistically different between sexes. Although there was no statistically significant difference detected in mortality between males and females at 30 days postoperatively, females had an increased crude 1-year mortality with an RD of 0.014 (95% confidence interval, 0.01-0.02; P value < .001. Males had a higher rate of a postoperative change in renal function with an RD of -0.02 (95% confidence interval, -0.03 to -0.01; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although there was no sex-based mortality difference at 30 days, there was a statistically significant increase in mortality in females after open aortoiliac intervention at 1 year based on our weighted model. Male patients are statistically significantly more likely to have a decline in renal function after their procedures when compared with females. Postoperative complications including prolonged hospital stay, reoperation, and wound disruption were similar among the sexes, as was limb preservation rates at 1 year. Further studies should focus on elucidating the underlying factors contributing to sex-based differences in clinical outcomes following aortoiliac interventions.

Prevalence of aortic aneurysms and dissections in patients with systemic vessel aneurysms and dissections; matched case-control study using a national sample cohort

Objective

Aneurysms in systemic arteries are rare, and little is known about their relationship with aortic aneurysms. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of aortic aneurysms and dissections (AAD) in patients with other systemic vessel aneurysms and dissections (OVAD) and identify their potential risk factors.

Methods

This cross-sectional study used a nationwide representative cohort sample from the Korea National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort database. We defined OVAD as systemic vessel aneurysms and dissections excluding intracranial and aortic dissections and aneurysms. With a total of 690 OVAD patients and 2,760 non-OVAD matched controls, we investigated the prevalence of AAD in patients with OVAD and potential risk factors for their concurrence using the χ2 test and logistic regression.

Results

The prevalence of AAD in patients with OVAD was 10.6% (73/690) and 0.3% (9/2,760) in patients with non-OVAD. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) for having concurrent AAD with OVAD was 37.56 (95% CI: 18.29-77.12, p < 0.001) after stratification by sex, age, income, region of residence and after adjustment for hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and extent of disability. The adjusted ORs of AAD were significantly higher in females [adjusted OR = 47.63 (95% CI: 10.72-211.55)], and individuals aged ≥60 years [adjusted OR = 28.18 (95% CI: 13.42-59.17)], as well as those without hypertension [adjusted OR = 95.44 (95% CI: 18.21-500.23)], diabetes mellitus [adjusted OR = 46.39 (95% CI: 18.85-114.17)], without dyslipidemia [adjusted OR = 60.99 (95% CI: 20.83-178.56), p < 0.001 for all]. The prevalence of AAD significantly differed by according to specific sites of OVAD in carotid artery, upper extremity artery, iliac artery, lower extremity artery, and splanchnic artery (p < 0.001 for all).

Conclusions

The prevalence of AAD in patients with OVAD was 37.56 times higher than that in the matched population. We may approach aneurysms as systemic diseases and further investigations of pathophysiology would help to clarify the relationships between AAD and OVAD.

Gender Differences and Amputation Risk in Peripheral Artery Disease-A Single-Center Experience

Background and Objectives: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) affects both genders, but the knowledge of clinical and therapeutic aspects particular to each gender has a prognostic value, modulating the risk of amputation and helping to reduce the risk of death or the occurrence of an acute vascular event secondary to optimal management. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective, descriptive study that included 652 patients with PAD who were evaluated at "St. Spiridon" Hospital's Cardiology Department and divided into two groups according to gender: women (100 cases) and men (552 cases). We evaluated demographics, anthropometric data, as well as clinical and paraclinical parameters in the two groups. Results: Men had a lower mean age (p < 0.001), higher mean BMI (p = 0.049) and were more frequent smokers. (p = 0.008). Hypercholesterolemia (p = 0.026), obesity (p = 0.009), concomitant cerebrovascular (p = 0.005) and chronic kidney disease (p = 0.046) were more common in women, while coronary artery disease (p = 0.033) was more common in men. The number of angiographic stenotic lesions (p = 0.037) is a statistically significant parameter in our study, with both genders predominantly associated with stenotic lesions. In addition, directly proportional relationships were found between smoking, uric acid, inflammatory markers, and the number of stenotic lesions and thromboses or the ankle-brachial index (ABI). In the subgroup of men, the number of stenotic and thrombosed lesions positively correlated with the ABI value (p < 0.001). The presence of more than three cardiovascular risk factors (p = 0.001) and serum triglyceride levels (p = 0.019) significantly correlated with the number of angiographically detected lesions. We applied several risk scores (PREVENT III, Finnvasc Score, or GermanVasc risk score) in our study group for prognostic purposes, without showing statistically significant differences between genders. Men, rest pain, gangrene, smoking status, the presence of more than three cardiovascular risk factors, or a serum HDL-cholesterol level below 40 mg/dL (p < 0.001 for all parameters) are independent predictors associated with amputation in our study group. Conclusions: In our study, we demonstrated that several clinical-paraclinical particularities guide the diagnosis, providing the clinician with prognostic and therapeutic tools to choose the optimal management with maximum benefits.

Global burden of peripheral artery disease and its risk factors, 1990-2019: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

BACKGROUND

Peripheral artery disease is a growing public health problem. We aimed to estimate the global disease burden of peripheral artery disease, its risk factors, and temporospatial trends to inform policy and public measures.

METHODS

Data on peripheral artery disease were modelled using the Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2019 database. Prevalence, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and mortality estimates of peripheral artery disease were extracted from GBD 2019. Total DALYs and age-standardised DALY rate of peripheral artery disease attributed to modifiable risk factors were also assessed.

FINDINGS

In 2019, the number of people aged 40 years and older with peripheral artery disease was 113 million (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 99·2-128·4), with a global prevalence of 1·52% (95% UI 1·33-1·72), of which 42·6% was in countries with low to middle Socio-demographic Index (SDI). The global prevalence of peripheral artery disease was higher in older people, (14·91% [12·41-17·87] in those aged 80-84 years), and was generally higher in females than in males. Globally, the total number of DALYs attributable to modifiable risk factors in 2019 accounted for 69·4% (64·2-74·3) of total peripheral artery disease DALYs. The prevalence of peripheral artery disease was highest in countries with high SDI and lowest in countries with low SDI, whereas DALY and mortality rates showed U-shaped curves, with the highest burden in the high and low SDI quintiles.

INTERPRETATION

The total number of people with peripheral artery disease has increased globally from 1990 to 2019. Despite the lower prevalence of peripheral artery disease in males and low-income countries, these groups showed similar DALY rates to females and higher-income countries, highlighting disproportionate burden in these groups. Modifiable risk factors were responsible for around 70% of the global peripheral artery disease burden. Public measures could mitigate the burden of peripheral artery disease by modifying risk factors.

FUNDING

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Risk Factors for Premature Coronary Heart Disease in Women Compared to Men: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: We aimed to systematically examine literature on the prevalence of known modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors for premature coronary heart disease (PCHD) in women compared with men. Materials and Methods: PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched. Review protocol is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020173216). Quality was assessed using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute tool. Review Manager 5.3 was used for meta-analysis. Effect sizes were expressed as odds ratio (OR) and mean differences/standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for categorical and continuous variables. Results: In this PCHD cohort (age <65 years), the mean age of presentation in women was 3 years older than men. Women had higher total cholesterol (SMD 0.11; 95% CI 0.00 to 0.23) and higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (SMD 0.49; 95% CI 0.29 to 0.69). Women were more likely to have hypertension (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.42 to 1.60), diabetes mellitus (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.55 to 2.04), obesity (OR 1.33, 95% CI 1.24 to 1.42), metabolic syndrome (OR 3.73, 95% CI 1.60 to 8.69), stroke (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.51 to 1.77), peripheral vascular disorder (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.43 to 1.96), and depression (OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.96 to 2.67). Women were less likely to be smokers (OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.66), have reported alcohol intake (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.40), and reported use of illicit drug (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.62). Conclusions: Risk factor profile in PCHD has a clear sex difference that supports early, aggressive, holistic, but sex-specific, approach to prevention.

Sex-Related Disparities in Acute Limb Ischemia Treatment Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Although a substantial impetus behind disparities research in healthcare exists, those that are sex-related within vascular surgery outcomes are largely unexplored. Consequently, published guidelines lack specificity when it comes to treating male and female patients with vascular disease. Disparities related to patients suffering from chronic limb-threatening ischemia have been broached, although no extensive studies assessing disparities in acute limb ischemia treatment outcomes have come to the forefront. In this study, our aim is to identify and quantify sex-related disparities as they pertain to interventions for acute limb ischemia.

METHODS

Using the TriNetX global research network, we conducted a multicenter query across 48 healthcare organizations spanning 5 countries for patients treated for acute limb ischemia. We determined the number of male and female patients that received one of the following interventions: open revascularization, percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy, or catheter-directed thrombolysis and/or adjunctive endovascular procedures. Propensity score matching was performed to account for comorbidities. Risk of adverse outcomes within 30 days was calculated for each sex, including reintervention, major amputation, and death. Risk of adverse outcomes was then compared between treatment groups of the same sex and between sexes. Type-I errors were reduced through utilization of the Holm-Bonferroni method to correct P values.

RESULTS

Within our study, we noted several important findings. Females were more likely to receive catheter-directed thrombolysis and/or adjunctive endovascular procedures (P = 0.001) than males. There were no significant differences in the rates of open revascularization or percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy between males and females. Overall, females were more likely to die within 30 days (P < 0.0001) and greater number of males required reintervention within 30 days (P < 0.0001). Analyzing outcomes within individual treatment groups, females undergoing open revascularization or catheter-directed thrombolysis and/or adjunctive endovascular intervention demonstrated a profound increase in mortality within 30 days of intervention (P = 0.0072 and P = 0.0206, respectively), but these differences were not reflected in the percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy group. Limb salvage rates in females were higher than males overall although there were no significant sex differences within any treatment groups specifically.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, there was a significantly higher risk of death in females across all treatment groups in the studied timeframe. Limb salvage rates were higher for females in the open revascularization (OR) treatment group, while males were more likely to require a reintervention across all treatment groups. By evaluating these disparities, we can provide greater insight into personalized treatment for patients presenting with acute limb ischemia.

Women are Not at Higher Risk for Reintervention or Major Amputation after Lower Extremity Atherectomy for Peripheral Artery Disease

BACKGROUND

Our objective was to compare short-term and long-term differences in reintervention-free and major amputation-free survival between female and male patients undergoing lower extremity atherectomy for peripheral artery disease.

METHODS

We analyzed lower extremity atherectomy procedures performed on 294 patients between January 2014 and September 2019. Reintervention was defined as either open bypass or endovascular procedure to the same region following the index operation. Kaplan-Meier (KM) survival analysis was performed to compare reintervention-free and major amputation-free survival between sexes. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the adjusted odds of reintervention and major amputation based on sex. We conducted subgroup analyses by anatomic region (femoropopliteal vs. tibial), indication (claudication vs. chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI)), and balloon type (drug-coated balloon (DCB) versus plain balloon angioplasty (POBA)) across sexes.

RESULTS

Of the 294 patients, 125 (42.5%) were female. Compared to men, women receiving atherectomy were more likely to be Black (28.0% vs. 16.6%; P = 0.018), a nonsmoker (44.8% vs. 21.3%; P < 0.001), and present with CLTI (55.2% vs. 43.2%; P = 0.042). There were no differences in atherectomy region, lesion type, or balloon type between sexes. KM analysis showed similar 4-year reintervention-free survival (68.8% vs. 75.1%; P = 0.88) and major amputation-free survival (97.6% vs. 97.6%; P = 0.41) between sexes. Women and men had similar reintervention-free survival when grouped by femoropopliteal (67.9% vs. 70.8%; P = 0.69) or tibial (76.2% vs. 83.9%; P = 0.68) atherectomy region. Indication (claudication versus CLTI) did not affect reintervention-free survival in either women (64.5% vs. 69.6%; P = 0.28) or men (68.5% vs. 76.7%; P = 0.84). KM curves for DCB versus POBA were also similar between sexes and showed an early benefit in reintervention rate favoring DCB, which dissipated in both women (65.4% vs. 72.7%; P = 0.61) and men (75.5% vs. 78.4%; P = 0.18) by 3 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to men, women demonstrate commensurate benefit from atherectomy for lower extremity revascularization. There were no differences seen in long-term reintervention or major amputation between sexes.

Bias in artificial intelligence in vascular surgery

Application of artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized the utilization of big data, especially in patient care. The potential of deep learning models to learn without a priori assumption, or without prior learning, to connect seemingly unrelated information mixes excitement alongside hesitation to fully understand AI's limitations. Bias, ranging from data collection and input to algorithm development to finally human review of algorithm output affects AI's application to clinical patient presents unique challenges that differ significantly from biases in traditional analyses. Algorithm fairness, a new field of research within AI, aims to mitigate bias by evaluating the data at the preprocessing stage, optimizing during algorithm development, and evaluating algorithm output at the postprocessing stage. As the field continues to develop, being cognizant of the inherent biases and limitations related to black box decision making, biased data sets agnostic to patient-level disparities, wide variation of present methodologies, and lack of common reporting standards will require ongoing research to provide transparency to AI and its applications.

Robust critical limb ischemia porcine model involving skeletal muscle necrosis

This work sought to develop a robust and clinically relevant swine model of critical limb ischemia (CLI) involving the onset of ischemic muscle necrosis. CLI carries about 25-40% risk of major amputation with 20% annual mortality. Currently, there is no specific treatment that targets the ischemic myopathy characteristic of CLI. Current swine models of CLI, with tolerable side-effects, fail to achieve sustained ischemia followed by a necrotic myopathic endpoint. Such limitation in experimental model hinders development of effective interventions. CLI was induced unilaterally by ligation-excision of one inch of the common femoral artery (CFA) via infra-inguinal minimal incision in female Yorkshire pigs (n = 5). X-ray arteriography was done pre- and post-CFA transection to validate successful induction of severe ischemia. Weekly assessment of the sequalae of ischemia on limb perfusion, and degree of ischemic myopathy was conducted for 1 month using X-ray arteriography, laser speckle imaging, CTA angiography, femoral artery duplex, high resolution ultrasound and histopathological analysis. The non-invasive tissue analysis of the elastography images showed specific and characteristic pattern of increased muscle stiffness indicative of the fibrotic and necrotic outcome expected with associated total muscle ischemia. The prominent onset of skeletal muscle necrosis was evident upon direct inspection of the affected tissues. Ischemic myopathic changes associated with inflammatory infiltrates and deficient blood vessels were objectively validated. A translational model of severe hindlimb ischemia causing ischemic myopathy was successfully established adopting an approach that enables long-term survival studies in compliance with regulatory requirements pertaining to animal welfare.

SARS-COV-2 Pandemic for Patients with Chronic Obstructive Peripheral Arterial Disease: Impact of Interruption to Access According to Gender in a Single Center Experience

BACKGROUND

This retrospective study aims to evaluate the impact of interrupted services for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) patients and especially women in a single north-eastern Italian center over a period of 3 months prior to the pandemic, during the first (2020) and the second (2021) wave of contagion in northern Italy.

METHODS

Patients with PAD at Rutherford stages 3 to 6 that required revascularization between March 2019 and March 2021 were classified into 3 groups, according to the period of treatment: the prepandemic period, the pandemic-20 period, and the pandemic-21 period.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight patients were treated in the prepandemic period, 21 in the pandemic-20 period, and 39 in the pandemic-21 period. It was observed that in the both pandemic periods patients presented with more severe stages of limb ischemia, Rutherford 5 and 6 stages. During pandemic-20, patients underwent mostly open surgery, followed by hybrid procedures. No differences were observed between the 3 groups in major amputations, length of hospital stay, type of discharge, limb salvage and mortality. During long-term follow-up, limb salvage appeared to be significantly better in the pandemic-21 group. The gender analysis revealed a significantly reduced female proportion of overall treated patients in 2020 and 2021 compared to the prepandemic period. In the pandemic-20 this difference appears even more evident since treatments on females represented 19% of the total while in the same period of the previous year the male/female percentage was comparable (54% vs. 46%). The women admitted presented higher stages of disease and tended to have a longer hospital stay than men. At 12-month follow-up, limb salvage was similar between the 2 genders but was slightly worse in women.

CONCLUSIONS

An efficient reorganization of the vascular surgery services during the pandemic period guaranteed the quality and standard of treatment offered in the preceding periods. Among patients suffering from PAD the impact of the pandemic was greater for the female gender. It is therefore important that in addition to a reorganization of hospital services to provide adequate care for patients with ACOP in the pandemic period, greater information and awareness of women.

Gender Differences in Iliofemoral Vein Stenting for Chronic Venous Insufficiency

INTRODUCTION

Little is known about gender's role in chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of gender on outcomes of iliac vein stenting(IVS) for CVI.

METHODS

866 patients who underwent vein stenting for CVI at one institution from August 2011 to June 2021 were analyzed via retrospective review. Patients were followed up to 5 years after initial stent placement. Presenting symptoms were quantified using Venous Clinical Severity Score(VCSS), Clinical Assessment Score(CAS), and Clinical, Etiology, Anatomy, and Pathophysiology (CEAP) class. Reoperations after initial IVS were recorded. Major reoperations were defined as iliac interventions using venography. Minor reoperations were defined as thermal ablation. Multivariate logistic regression models were used determine odds of any and major reintervention.

RESULTS

Compared to females, males pre-operatively presented with a higher mean CEAP class (3.6 vs .3.3; P < .001), VCSS composite (11.3 vs .9.9; P < .001), and smoking history (134 vs .49; P < .001). The 2 groups were similar in age (P = .125), BMI(P = .898), previous DVT (P = .085), diabetes (P = .386), hypertension (P = 1.0), and CAD (P = .499). Multivariate analyses revealed no association between gender and any reintervention (OR, 1.02; 95%CI, .71-1.46; P = .935) or gender and major reintervention (OR, 1.39; 95% CI, .86-2.23 P = .177). There were no differences in number of stents placed (P = .736) or symptomatic improvement at 1 month (P = .951), 3 months (P = .233), 6 months(P = .068), and greater than 1 year (P = .287). At the 1 year follow-up, the male cohort had higher CAS values than females P = .034). Males had larger reduction in composite VCSS than women at 1 year (5.1 vs. 3.8; P = .003) and 3 years (5.3 vs .3.7; P = .031) of follow-up and similar levels of improvement in post-op (4.0 vs .3.5; P = .059), 2 years (4.3 vs .3.8; P = .295), 4-years (5.1 vs .4.6; P = .529), 5 years (5.6 vs .4.2; P = .174), and 6 years (5.93vs.3.3 P = .089).

CONCLUSIONS

In a single site study of IVS in patients with CVI, males tended to present worse symptoms than females. After surgery, however, both cohorts showed improvement, and both seemed to improve to the same degree of residual symptoms.

SUV39H1 Inhibits Angiogenesis in Limb Ischemia of Mice

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), characterized by atherosclerosis of the peripheral arteries or even amputation, has threatened public life and health. However, the underlying mechanism remains largely obscure. SUV39H1, a histone methyltransferase, could specifically methylate lysine 9 of histone H3 and act as a repressor in transcriptional activity. The study aimed to investigate the role of SUV39H1 in limb ischemia. C57BL/6 male mice were randomly divided into Sham or Model groups to investigate the expression of SUV39H1 in the ischemic limbs. Then, pharmaceutical inhibition or genetic deletion of SUV39H1 in the limb ischemia mice model was performed to confirm its effect on limb ischemia. The blood perfusion was quantified by laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI). Capillary density and muscle edema were measured by CD31 immunohistochemical staining and HE staining. The expressions of SUV39H1 and Catalase were confirmed by western blot. Transcriptome sequencing of siSUV39H1 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was used to explore the regulation mechanism of SUV39H1 on angiogenesis. The results showed that SUV39H1 was highly expressed in the ischemic muscle tissue of the mice. Pharmaceutical inhibition or genetic deletion of SUV39H1 significantly improved blood perfusion, capillary density, and angiogenesis in ischemic muscle tissue. Cell experiments showed that SUV39H1 knockdown promoted cell migration, tube formation, and mitochondrial membrane potential in endothelial cells under oxidative stress. The transcriptome sequencing results unmasked mechanisms of the regulation of angiogenesis induced by SUV39H1. Finally, Salvianolic acid B and Astragaloside IV were identified as potential drug candidates for the improvement of endothelial function by repressing SUV39H1. Our study reveals a new mechanism in limb ischemia. Targeting SUV39H1 could improve endothelial dysfunction and thus prevent limb ischemia.

Incidence and Prevalence of Peripheral Arterial Disease in South Korea: Retrospective Analysis of National Claims Data

BACKGROUND

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) causes blood vessel narrowing that decreases blood flow to the lower extremities, with symptoms such as leg pain, discomfort, and intermittent claudication. PAD increases risks for amputation, poor health-related quality of life, and mortality. It is estimated that more than 200 million people worldwide have PAD, although the paucity of PAD research in the East detracts from knowledge on global PAD epidemiology. There are few national data-based analyses or health care utilization investigations. Thus, a national data analysis of PAD incidence and prevalence would provide baseline data to enable health promotion strategies for patients with PAD.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to identify South Korean trends in the incidence and prevalence of PAD and PAD treatment, in-hospital deaths, and health care utilization.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis of South Korean national claims data from 2009 to 2018. The incidence of PAD was determined by setting the years 2010 and 2011 as a washout period to exclude previously diagnosed patients with PAD. The study included adults aged ≥20 and <90 years who received a primary diagnosis of PAD between 2011 and 2018; patients were stratified according to age, sex, and insurance status for the incidence and prevalence analyses. Descriptive statistics were used to assess incidence, prevalence, endovascular revascularization (EVR) events, amputations, in-hospital deaths, and the health care utilization characteristics of patients with PAD.

RESULTS

Based on data from 2011 to 2018, there were an average of 124,682 and 993,048 incident and prevalent PAD cases, respectively, in 2018. PAD incidence (per 1000 persons) ranged from 2.68 to 3.09 during the study period. From 2012 to 2018, the incidence rate in both sexes showed an increasing trend. PAD incidence continued to increase with age. PAD prevalence (per 1000 persons) increased steadily, from 3.93 in 2011 to 23.55 in 2018. The number of EVR events varied between 933 and 1422 during the study period, and both major and minor amputations showed a decreasing trend. Health care utilization characteristics showed that women visited clinics more frequently than men, whereas men used tertiary and general hospitals more often than women.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of incident and prevalent PAD cases generally showed an increasing trend. Visits to tertiary and general hospitals were higher among men than women. These results indicate the need for attention not only to Western and male patients, but also to Eastern and female patients with PAD. The results are generalizable, as they are based on national claims data from the entire South Korean population, and they can promote preventive care and management strategies for patients with PAD in clinical and public health settings.

Women benefit from endovenous ablation with fewer complications: Analysis of the Vascular Quality Initiative Varicose Vein Registry

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between gender and long-term clinician-reported and patient-reported outcomes after endovenous ablation procedures.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study of prospectively collected data from the Vascular Quality Initiative's Varicose Vein Registry included patients undergoing endovenous ablation procedures on truncal veins with or without treatment of perforating veins between 2015 and 2019. A univariate analysis included comparisons of preprocedural, postprocedural, and periprocedural change in Venous Clinical Severity Score (VCSS) and total symptom score by gender. Rates of complications including deep vein thrombosis, endovenous heat-induced thrombosis, leg pigmentation, blistering, paresthesia, incisional infection, and any postprocedural complications were reported by gender. Multivariable analysis leveraged linear regression to examine how gender affected the relationships between patient characteristics, complication rates, and periprocedural change in VCSS score and total symptom score.

RESULTS

Of 9743 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 3090 (31.7%) were men and 6653 (68.2%) were women. The perioperative change in VCSS score was greater for men than women (average -4.46 for men vs -4.13 for women; P < .0001). Perioperative change in total symptom score was greater for women than for men (average -10.64 for women vs -9.64 for men; P < .0001). Women had lower incidence of any leg complication (6.1% vs 8.6%; P = .001) endovenous heat-induced thrombosis (1.1% vs 2.2%; P = .002), and infection (0.4% vs 0.7%; P = .001). In multivariable analysis, among patients with a body mass index of more than 40, presence of deep reflux, and preoperative Clinical, Etiologic, Anatomic, and Physiologic classification of 2, women had a greater periprocedural change in VCSS score than men.

CONCLUSIONS

Women benefited from endovenous ablation similarly as men, with a lower incidence of postprocedural complications. Gender may be useful for patient selection and counseling for endovenous ablation, with particular usefulness among patients with a high body mass index, presence of deep reflux, and preoperative Clinical, Etiologic, Anatomic, and Physiologic classification of 2.

Increased long-term bleeding complications in females undergoing endovascular revascularization for peripheral arterial disease

OBJECTIVE

Females with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) treated with endovascular interventions have increased limb-based procedural complications compared with males. Little is known regarding long-term bleeding risk in these patients who often require long-term antiplatelet or anticoagulation therapy. We hypothesize that females have a higher incidence of bleeding events compared with males in the year after endovascular intervention for PAD.

METHODS

Adults (aged ≥65 years) who underwent endovascular revascularization for PAD between 2008 and 2015 in Medicare claims data were identified. Patients were allocated by prescribed postprocedural antithrombotic therapy, including (1) antiplatelet therapy, (2) anticoagulation therapy, (3) dual antiplatelet and anticoagulation therapy, and (4) no prescription antithrombotic therapy. Bleeding events were classified as gastrointestinal, intracranial, hematoma, airway, or other. Crude and covariate-standardized 30-, 90-, and 365-day cumulative incidence of bleeding events, overall and by sex, were estimated using Aalen-Johansen estimators accounting for death as a competing risk. Sex differences were identified using Gray's test.

RESULTS

Of 31,593 eligible patients, 54% were females. Females were older (77.9 years vs 75.5 years) and tended to use antiplatelet therapy more often at 30, 90, and 365 days after the intervention. Clopidogrel was the most prescribed antiplatelet, and 32% of patients continued its use at 365 days. Anticoagulants were prescribed to 26.0% of patients at the time of the procedure, and only 8.8% continued anticoagulation at 365 days. Thirty-one percent of patients were diagnosed with a bleeding event within 1 year after the intervention. The cumulative incidence of any bleeding event during the postintervention period was higher in females compared with males with a risk difference of 3% between the sex cohorts (P < .01). Specifically, females had a higher incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding and hematoma (P < .01), but a lower incidence of airway-related bleeding at each time point as compared with males (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Sex disparities in bleeding complications after endovascular intervention for PAD persist in the long term. Females are more likely to be readmitted with a bleeding complication up to 1 year after the procedure. Antithrombotic therapy disproportionately increases the risk of bleeding in females. Further research is necessary to understand the mechanisms responsible for abnormal coagulopathy in females after endovascular therapy.

Comparison of 6-Month Outcomes of Endovascular vs Surgical Revascularization for Patients With Critical Limb Ischemia

IMPORTANCE

The Bypass Versus Angioplasty for Severe Ischemia of the Leg randomized controlled trial showed comparable outcomes between endovascular revascularization (ER) and surgical revascularization (SR) for patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI). However, several observational studies showed mixed results. Most of these studies were conducted before advanced endovascular technologies were available.

OBJECTIVE

To compare ER and SR treatment strategies for 6-month outcomes among patients with CLI.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This retrospective, population-based cohort study used the Nationwide Readmissions Database to identify 66 277 patients with CLI who underwent ER or SR from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2018. Data analyses were conducted from January 1, 2022, to February 8, 2022. A propensity score with 1:1 matching was applied. Patients with CLI who underwent ER or SR were identified, and those with missing information on the length of stay and/or younger than 18 years were excluded.

EXPOSURES

Endovascular or surgical revascularization.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was a major amputation at 6 months. Significant secondary outcomes were in-hospital and 6-month mortality and an in-hospital safety composite of acute kidney injury, major bleeding, and vascular complication. Subgroup analysis was conducted for major amputation in high-volume centers.

RESULTS

A total of 66 277 patients were identified between 2016 and 2018 who underwent ER or SR for CLI. The Nationwide Readmissions Database does not provide racial and ethnic categories. The mean (SD) age of the cohort was 69.3 (12) years, and 62.5% of patients were male. A total of 54 546 patients (82.3%) underwent ER and 11 731 (17.7%) underwent SR. After propensity score matching, 11 106 matched pairs were found. Endovascular revascularization was associated with an 18% higher risk of major amputation compared with SR (997 of 10 090 [9.9%] vs 869 of 10 318 [8.4%]; hazard ratio, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.08-1.29; P = .001). However, no difference was observed in major amputation risk when both procedures were performed in high-volume centers. Endovascular revascularization and SR had similar mortality rates (517 of 11 106 [4.7%] vs 490 of 11 106 [4.4%]; hazard ratio, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.93-1.20; P = .39). However, the ER group had a 17% lower risk of in-hospital safety outcomes compared with the SR group (2584 of 11 106 [23.3%] vs 2979 of 11 106 [26.8%]; odds ratio, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.78-0.88; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

The results of this study suggest that ER was safer, without any difference in mortality, but ER was associated with an increased risk of major amputation compared with SR. However, the risk of major amputation was similar when both procedures were performed at high-volume centers.

Impact of systemic lupus erythematosus on in-hospital outcomes of peripheral artery disease—insight from the National Inpatient Sample database

Chronic inflammatory disorders like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis are associated with worse outcomes in ischemic heart disease. However, there is a paucity of data regarding outcomes in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) with concomitant SLE. The purpose of this study was to compare clinical features and in-hospital outcomes of PAD in patients with and without SLE from the general population using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project National Inpatient Sample database. We performed a cross-sectional analysis on 520,665 patients diagnosed with PAD from quarter 4 of 2015 to 2017. The primary endpoint was risk-adjusted in-hospital mortality. Of the total patient population, 3080 patients (0.6%) had SLE compared with 517,585 controls (99.4%). The observed in-hospital mortality was higher in patients with SLE (6.3% vs. 4.6%, P < 0.001). To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest population-based study investigating the impact of SLE in patients with PAD. Our analysis showed higher in-hospital mortality in SLE patients than in those without SLE. Early diagnosis and aggressive management of SLE and its complications in these patients have the potential to improve overall outcomes.

Disparities in peripheral artery disease care: A review and call for action

Peripheral artery disease (PAD), the pathophysiologic narrowing of arterial blood vessels of the lower leg due to atherosclerosis, is a highly prevalent disease that affects more than 6 million individuals 40 years and older in the United States, with sharp increases in prevalence with age. Morbidity and mortality rates in patients with PAD range from 30% to 70% during the 5- to 15-year period after diagnosis and PAD is associated with poor health outcomes and reduced functionality and quality of life. Despite advances in medical, endovascular, and open surgical techniques, there is striking variation in care among population subgroups defined by sex, race and ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, with concomitant differences in preoperative medication optimization, amputation risk, and overall health outcomes. We reviewed studies from 1995 to 2021 to provide a comprehensive analysis of the current impact of disparities on the treatment and management of PAD and offer action items that require strategic partnership with primary care providers, researchers, patients, and their communities. With new technologies and collaborative approaches, optimal management across all population subgroups is possible.

Effects of Lower Limb Revascularization on the Microcirculation of the Foot: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background: Current assessment standards in chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) focus on macrovascular function while neglecting the microcirculation. Multispectral near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) provides hemodynamic characteristics of the microcirculation (i.e., capillaries) and may be a powerful tool for monitoring CLTI and preventing extremity loss. The aims of this study were to (1) investigate the effects of lower limb revascularization on the microcirculation and (2) determine if macrovascular and microvascular assessments correlate. Methods: An observational, retrospective cohort study of 38 endovascular interventions in 30 CLTI subjects was analyzed pre- and post-intervention for arterial Doppler acceleration times (AcT; macrovascular) and NIRS metrics (microvascular). Pre-intervention ankle-brachial index (ABI) was also analyzed. Results: AcT significantly decreased (p = 0.009) while oxyhemoglobin (HbO) significantly increased (p < 0.04) after endovascular intervention, indicating treatment efficacy. However, macrovascular measurements (ABI, AcT) and NIRS metrics of oxygenation and perfusion did not correlate (p > 0.06, r2 < 0.15, n = 23) indicating that macro- and microvascular assessment are not congruent. Conclusion: These findings suggest that macrovascular and microvascular assessments can determine interventional efficacy in their corresponding vasculature. Their lack of correlation, however, suggests the need for simultaneous assessment as independent use may cause diagnostic information to be missed.

Does Gender Influence the Effectiveness and Safety of Insulin Glargine 300 U/ml in Patients with Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes? Results from the REALI European Pooled Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Gender differences in risk factors and treatment outcomes for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) may exist. We used the REALI European database to investigate whether there were gender-specific differences in baseline characteristics and clinical outcomes among patients with inadequately controlled T2DM initiated on insulin glargine 300 U/ml (Gla-300).

METHODS

Data were pooled from 14 multicentre, prospective, interventional and non-interventional studies. Impact of gender on glycaemic control, insulin dose, body weight and hypoglycaemia was evaluated after 12 and 24 weeks of Gla-300 treatment.

RESULTS

Women (N = 3857) were older than men (N = 4376) (median age, 65.0 versus 63.0 years), with greater mean body mass index (32.5 versus 31.6 kg/m²) and lower median estimated glomerular filtration rate (77.5 versus 84.0 ml/min/1.73 m²). Peripheral arterial disease and a history of myocardial infarction were more frequent in men (20.1% versus 11.7% and 12.0% versus 5.8%, respectively). At baseline, mean haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) was 8.74% in men and 8.79% in women. Least square (LS) mean (95% CI) reduction in HbA1c from baseline to week 24 was - 1.17% (- 1.21 to - 1.13) in men and - 1.07% (- 1.11 to - 1.02) in women, resulting in a LS mean difference of - 0.10% (- 0.15 to - 0.05; p < 0.0001). At 24 weeks, 21.6% of women and 27.2% of men achieved target HbA1c of < 7.0% (p < 0.001; chi-square). Reported incidence for symptomatic (8.5% versus 8.7%) and severe (0.3% versus 0.5%) any-time-of-the-day or symptomatic (2.4% versus 1.8%) and severe (0.1% versus 0.2%) nocturnal hypoglycaemia was overall low and comparable between men and women. Changes in daily Gla-300 dose and body weight were also similar.

CONCLUSION

Despite some gender differences in baseline characteristics, Gla-300 treatment improved glycaemic control, with overall low hypoglycaemia incidences in both men and women. However, women had statistically significantly lower HbA1c reductions than men, although these differences were clinically modest.

Evidence-Experience Gap and Future Perspective on the Treatment of Peripheral Artery Disease

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a systemic disease associated with impaired limb function, poor quality of life, and increased cardiovascular morbidity. Its incidence has been dramatically increasing over years because of the emergence of an aging society and the increase in the number of patients with atherosclerotic risk factors. The clustering of these risk factors promotes disease development, reportedly leading to the differential location of atherosclerotic lesions in lower extremity arteries. The clinical presentations of PAD include intermittent claudication and chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI). PAD is associated with a high risk of mortality and morbidity from both cardiovascular and limb events. The therapeutic goals for patients with PAD include 1) relief from PAD-related limb symptoms, 2) the prevention of new-onset and the development and recurrence of PAD, and 3) the prevention of concomitant adverse events due to coronary artery disease (CAD) and cerebrovascular disease (CVD). There are several types of antithrombotic agents, and their main role in patients with PAD is to reduce systemic events mainly including cardiovascular and lower extremity-related events. Currently, the efficacy of direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) is also suggested by recent clinical trials. Although endovascular therapy (EVT) has been a first-line revascularization strategy for symptomatic PAD, whether clinical outcomes after EVT are comparable to those after surgical bypass therapy remains inconclusive.

Prevalence of Peripheral Arterial Disease and Associated Vascular Risk Factors in 65-Years-Old People of Northern Barcelona

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in Northern Barcelona at 65 years of age.

METHODS

A single-center, cross-sectional study, including males and females 65 years of age, health care cardholders of Barcelona Nord. PAD was defined as an ankle-brachial index (ABI) < 0.9. Attending subjects were evaluated for a history of common cardiovascular risk factors. A REGICOR score was obtained, as well as a physical examination and anthropometric measurements.

RESULTS

From November 2017 to December 2018, 1174 subjects were included: 479 (40.8%) female and 695 (59.2%) male. Overall prevalence of PAD was 6.2% (95% CI: 4.8-7.6%), being 7.9% (95% CI: 5.9-9.9%) in males and 3.8% (95% CI: 2.1-5.5%) in females. An independent strong association was seen in male smokers and diabetes, with ORs pf 7.2 (95% CI: 2.8-18.6) and 1.8 (95% CI: 1.0-3.3), respectively, and in female smokers and hypertension, with ORs of 5.2 (95% CI: 1.6-17.3) and 3.3 (95% CI: 1.2-9.0). Male subjects presented with higher REGICOR scores (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Higher-risk groups are seen in male subjects with a history of smoking and diabetes and female smokers and arterial hypertension, becoming important subgroups for our primary healthcare centers and should be considered for ABI screening programs.

Lower Leg Arterial Calcifications Assessed by High-Resolution Peripheral Quantitative Computed Tomography in Hypoparathyroid and Pseudohypoparathyroid Patients

Hypoparathyroidism (HypoPT) and pseudohypoparathyroidism (PHP) are diseases with abnormal calcium and phosphate homeostasis and low and high PTH levels, respectively. It has been hypothesized that this could dispose to vascular calcifications and thereby perhaps also cardiovascular morbidity. The aim of this study was to assess lower leg arterial calcifications (LLAC) in patients with HypoPT or PHP. Using a cross-sectional design, we measured the LLAC using a high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) scanner in 72 patients with HypoPT and 25 patients with PHP and compared them with findings in 61 controls. LLAC were found in only two (3%) of the controls. Compared to the controls, LLAC were significantly more prevalent in patients with HypoPT (N = 12, [17%], p < 0.01) and PHP (N = 4, [16%], p < 0.04). Compared to the patients without calcifications, patients with calcifications had higher plasma calcium levels and a lower eGFR, as well as they were older and more often males. Plasma phosphate levels and the calcium-phosphate product were not associated with LLAC. In conclusion, we found that HypoPT and PHP are associated with an increased prevalence of vascular calcifications.

Sex and ethnic differences in the cardiovascular complications of type 2 diabetes

Diabetes mellitus represents a global health concern affecting 463 million adults and is projected to rapidly rise to 700 million people by 2045. Amongst those with type 2 diabetes (T2D), there are recognised differences in the impact of the disease on different sex and ethnic groups. The relative risk of cardiovascular complications between individuals with and without T2D is higher in females than males. People of South Asian heritage are two to four times more likely to develop T2D than white people, but conversely not more likely to experience cardiovascular complications. Differences in the pathophysiological responses in these groups may identify potential areas for intervention beyond glycaemic control. In this review, we highlight key differences of diabetes-associated cardiovascular complications by sex and ethnic background, with a particular emphasis on South Asians. Evidence assessing therapeutic efficacy of new glucose lowering drugs in minority groups is limited and many major cardiovascular outcomes trials do not report ethnic specific data. Conversely, lifestyle intervention and bariatric surgery appear to have similar benefits regardless of sex and ethnic groups. We encourage future studies with better representation of women and ethnic minorities that will provide valuable data to allow better risk stratification and tailored prevention and management strategies to improve cardiovascular outcomes in T2D.

Cardiovascular disease in women: Executive summary of the expert panel statement of women in cardiology of the hellenic cardiological society

The perception that women represent a low-risk population for cardiovascular (CV) disease (CVD) needs to be reconsidered. Starting from risk factors, women are more likely to be susceptible to unhealthy behaviors and risk factors that have different impact on CV morbidity and mortality as compared to men. Despite the large body of evidence as regards the effect of lifestyle factors on the CVD onset, the gender-specific effect of traditional and non-traditional risk factors on the prognosis of patients with already established CVD has not been well investigated and understood. Furthermore, CVD in women is often misdiagnosed, underestimated, and undertreated. Women also experience hormonal changes from adolescence till elder life that affect CV physiology. Unfortunately, in most of the clinical trials women are underrepresented, leading to the limited knowledge of CV and systemic impact effects of several treatment modalities on women's health. Thus, in this consensus, a group of female cardiologists from the Hellenic Society of Cardiology presents the special features of CVD in women: the different needs in primary and secondary prevention, as well as therapeutic strategies that may be implemented in daily clinical practice to eliminate underestimation and undertreatment of CVD in the female population.