Regional Variation in the Management and Outcomes of Acute Myocardial Infarction With Cardiogenic Shock in the United States

Transfer to Hub Hospitals and Outcomes in Cardiogenic Shock

BACKGROUND

There are limited large-scale data on the outcomes of patients with cardiogenic shock (CS) transferred to hub centers. This study aimed to compare the characteristics and outcomes of transferred patients with CS versus those who were not transferred.

METHODS

Adults (aged ≥18 years) with a primary or secondary diagnosis of CS were identified from the Nationwide Readmissions Database (2016-2020) and stratified by transfer status. Overlap propensity score weighting was performed to assess the association between transfer status and in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes, including length of hospital stay, hospitalization costs, and readmissions for cardiac and noncardiac etiologies, were assessed using multivariable regression.

RESULTS

Of 314 098 patients with CS (27% with acute myocardial infarction-related CS and 73% with nonacute myocardial infarction-related CS), 30 630 (9.8%) were transferred. In the unweighted population, compared with nontransferred patients, transferred patients were on average younger (65 versus 68 years), had higher comorbidities, and were more likely to be cared for at large teaching hospitals. During the hospitalization, they had higher rates of renal failure, pulmonary artery catheter use, and mechanical circulatory support use. In-hospital mortality was lower in transferred patients-39.1% versus 47.1%; unadjusted odds ratio (OR), 0.71 (95% CI, 0.70-0.73); adjusted OR, 0.73 ([95% CI, 0.71-0.76]; P<0.001). This was consistent across subgroups of CS cause, age, sex, hospital location, mechanical circulatory support use, and presence of cardiac arrest. The transferred cohort had lower costs and length of stay, but more frequent all-cause (adjusted OR, 1.21 [95% CI, 1.16-1.27]), cardiac (adjusted OR, 1.16 [95% CI, 1.11-1.22]), heart failure (adjusted OR, 1.14 [95% CI, 1.08-1.21]), and noncardiac readmissions (adjusted OR, 1.68 [95% CI, 1.21-2.33]) at 30 days postdischarge compared with the nontransferred cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite higher comorbidity, organ failure, and use of cardiac/noncardiac procedures, patients with CS who were transferred to hub centers had lower in-hospital mortality, hospitalization costs, and length of stay.

Clinical outcomes following shock team implementation for cardiogenic shock: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Cardiogenic shock is a critical cardiac condition characterized by low cardiac output leading to end-organ hypoperfusion and associated with high in-hospital mortality rates. It can manifest following acute myocardial infarction or acute exacerbation of chronic heart failure. Despite advancements, mortality rates remain elevated, prompting interest in multidisciplinary approaches to improve outcomes. This manuscript presents a review focused on the concept of a cardiogenic shock team and its potential impact on patient management and outcomes.

METHODS

A comprehensive search was performed on March 19, 2023, covering PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane Library. We included primary studies (prospective and retrospective) only and evaluated their quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Scale. This review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023440354).

RESULTS

Six relevant studies with 2066 cardiogenic shock patients were included, of which 1071 were managed by shock teams and 995 received standard care. Findings from the reviewed studies indicated the favorable outcomes associated with implementing cardiogenic shock teams. Patients managed by these teams exhibited higher 30-day and in-hospital survival rates compared to those without team intervention. The implementation of cardiogenic shock teams was linked to reduced in-hospital and intensive care unit mortality rates. Additionally, shock team involvement was associated with shorter door-to-balloon times.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that cardiogenic shock teams play a crucial role in improving patient outcomes through earlier detection and timely interventions. Despite challenges in team implementation, their potential to reduce mortality and improve efficiency in patient care warrants further research and greater integration of multidisciplinary strategies into clinical practice.

The Price We Pay for Progression in Shock Care: Economic Burden, Accessibility, and Adoption of Shock-Teams and Mechanical Circulatory Support Devices

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is associated with high in-hospital and long-term mortality and morbidity that results in significant socio-economic impact. Due to the high costs associated with CS care, it is important to define the short- and long-term burden of this disease state on resources and review strategies to mitigate these.

RECENT FINDINGS

In recent times, the focus on CS continues to be on improving short-term outcomes, but there has been increasing emphasis on the long-term morbidity. In this review we discuss the long-term outcomes of CS and the role of hospital-level and system-level disparities in perpetuating this. We discuss mitigation strategies including developing evidence-based protocols and systems of care, improvement in risk stratification and evaluation of futility of care, all of which address the economic burden of CS. CS continues to remain the pre-eminent challenge in acute cardiovascular care, and a combination of multi-pronged strategies are needed to improve outcomes in this population.

Medical therapy of cardiogenic shock: Contemporary use of inotropes and vasopressors

Cardiogenic shock is a primary cardiac disorder that results in both clinical and biochemical evidence of tissue hypoperfusion and can lead to multi-organ failure and death depending on its severity. Inadequate cardiac contractility or cardiac power secondary to acute myocardial infarction remains the most frequent cause of cardiogenic shock, although its contribution has declined over the past two decades, compared with other causes. Despite some advances in cardiogenic shock management, this clinical syndrome is still burdened by an extremely high mortality. Its management is based on immediate stabilization of haemodynamic parameters so that further treatment, including mechanical circulatory support and transfer to specialized tertiary care centres, can be accomplished. With these aims, medical therapy, consisting mainly of inotropic drugs and vasopressors, still has a major role. The purpose of this article is to review current evidence on the use of these medications in patients with cardiogenic shock and discuss specific clinical settings with indications to their use.

Association between hospital spending and in-hospital mortality of patients with sepsis based on a Japanese nationwide medical claims database study

Background

The effect of hospital spending on the mortality rate of patients with sepsis has not yet been fully elucidated. We hypothesized that hospitals that consume more medical resources would have lower mortality rates among patients with sepsis.

Methods

This retrospective study used administrative data from 2010 to 2017. The enrolled hospitals were divided into quartiles based on average daily medical cost per sepsis case. The primary and secondary outcomes were the average in-hospital mortality rate of patients with sepsis and the effective cost per survivor among the enrolled hospitals, respectively. A multiple regression model was used to determine the significance of the differences among hospital categories to adjust for baseline imbalances.

Results

Among 997 hospitals enrolled in this study, the crude in-hospital mortality rates were 15.7% and 13.2% in the lowest and highest quartiles of hospital spending, respectively. After adjusting for confounding factors, the highest hospital spending group demonstrated a significantly lower in-hospital mortality rate than the lowest hospital spending group (coefficient = -0.025, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.034 to -0.015; p < 0.0001). Similarly, the highest hospital spending group was associated with a significantly higher effective cost per survivor than the lowest hospital spending group (coefficient = 77.7, 95% CI 73.1 to 82.3; p < 0.0001). In subgroup analyses, hospitals with a small or medium number of beds demonstrated a consistent pattern with the primary test, whereas those with a large number of beds or academic affiliations displayed no association.

Conclusions

Using a nationwide Japanese medical claims database, this study indicated that hospitals with greater expenditures were associated with a superior survival rate and a higher effective cost per survivor in patients with sepsis than those with lower expenditures. In contrast, no correlations between hospital spending and mortality were observed in hospitals with a large number of beds or academic affiliations.

Outcomes in non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction complicated by in-hospital cardiac arrest based on management strategy

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) complicating non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) based on management strategy.

METHODS

We used National Inpatient Sample (2000-2017) to identify adults with NSTEMI (not undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting) and concomitant IHCA. The cohort was stratified based on use of early (hospital day 0) or delayed (≥hospital day 1) coronary angiography (CAG), percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and medical management. Outcomes included incidence of IHCA, in-hospital mortality, adverse events, length of stay, and hospitalization costs.

RESULTS

Of 6,583,662 NSTEMI admissions, 375,873 (5.7 %) underwent early CAG, 1,133,143 (17.2 %) received delayed CAG, 2,326,391 (35.3 %) underwent PCI, and 2,748,255 (41.7 %) admissions were managed medically. The medical management cohort was older, predominantly female, and with higher comorbidities. Overall, 63,085 (1.0 %) admissions had IHCA, and incidence of IHCA was highest in the medical management group (1.4 % vs 1.1 % vs 0.7 % vs 0.6 %, p < 0.001) compared to early CAG, delayed CAG and PCI groups, respectively. In adjusted analysis, early CAG (adjusted OR [aOR] 0.67 [95 % confidence interval {CI} 0.65-0.69]; p < 0.001), delayed CAG (aOR 0.49 [95 % CI 0.48-0.50]; p < 0.001), and PCI (aOR 0.42 [95 % CI 0.41-0.43]; p < 0.001) were associated with lower incidence of IHCA compared to medical management. Compared to medical management, early CAG (adjusted OR 0.53, CI: 0.49-0.58), delayed CAG (adjusted OR 0.34, CI: 0.32-0.36) and PCI (adjusted OR 0.19, CI: 0.18-0.20) were associated with lower in-hospital mortality (all p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Early CAG and PCI in NSTEMI was associated with lower incidence of IHCA and lower mortality among NSTEMI-IHCA admissions.

Sex and gender differences in intensive care medicine

Despite significant advancements in critical care medicine, limited attention has been given to sex and gender disparities in management and outcomes of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). While "sex" pertains to biological and physiological characteristics, such as reproductive organs, chromosomes and sex hormones, "gender" refers more to sociocultural roles and human behavior. Unfortunately, data on gender-related topics in the ICU are lacking. Consequently, data on sex and gender-related differences in admission to the ICU, clinical course, length of stay, mortality, and post-ICU burdens, are often inconsistent. Moreover, when examining specific diagnoses in the ICU, variations can be observed in epidemiology, pathophysiology, presentation, severity, and treatment response due to the distinct impact of sex hormones on the immune and cardiovascular systems. In this narrative review, we highlight the influence of sex and gender on the clinical course, management, and outcomes of the most encountered intensive care conditions, in addition to the potential co-existence of unconscious biases which may also impact critical illness. Diagnoses with a known sex predilection will be discussed within the context of underlying sex differences in physiology, anatomy, and pharmacology with the goal of identifying areas where clinical improvement is needed. To optimize patient care and outcomes, it is crucial to comprehend and address sex and gender differences in the ICU setting and personalize management accordingly to ensure equitable, patient-centered care. Future research should focus on elucidating the underlying mechanisms driving sex and gender disparities, as well as exploring targeted interventions to mitigate these disparities and improve outcomes for all critically ill patients.

Long-Term Outcomes of Cardiogenic Shock Complicating Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Cardiogenic shock secondary to acute myocardial infarction (AMI-CS) is associated with substantial short-term mortality; however, there are limited data on long-term outcomes and trends.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to examine long-term outcomes of AMI-CS patients.

METHODS

This was a population-based, retrospective cohort study in Ontario, Canada of critically ill adult patients with AMI-CS who were admitted to hospitals between April 1, 2009 and March 31, 2019. Outcome data were captured using linked health administrative databases.

RESULTS

A total of 9,789 consecutive patients with AMI-CS from 135 centers were included. The mean age was 70.5 ± 12.3 years, and 67.7% were male. The incidence of AMI-CS was 8.2 per 100,000 person-years, and it increased over the study period. Critical care interventions were common, with 5,422 (55.4%) undergoing invasive mechanical ventilation, 1,425 (14.6%) undergoing renal replacement therapy, and 1,484 (15.2%) receiving mechanical circulatory support. A total of 2,961 patients (30.2%) died in the hospital, and 4,004 (40.9%) died by 1 year. Mortality at 5 years was 58.9%. Small improvements in short- and long-term mortality were seen over the study period. Among survivors to discharge, 2,870 (42.0%) required increased support in care from their preadmission baseline, 3,244 (47.5%) were readmitted to the hospital within 1 year, and 1,047 (15.3%) died within 1 year. The mean number of days at home in the year following discharge was 307.9 ± 109.6.

CONCLUSIONS

Short- and long-term mortality among patients with AMI-CS is high, with minimal improvement over time. AMI-CS survivors experience significant morbidity, with high risks of readmission and death. Future studies should evaluate interventions to minimize postdischarge morbidity and mortality among AMI-CS survivors.

Escalation strategies, management, and outcomes of acute myocardial infarction-cardiogenic shock patients receiving percutaneous left ventricular support

BACKGROUND

There are limited national-level data on the contemporary practices of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) use in acute myocardial infarction-cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS).

METHODS

We utilized the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project-National/Nationwide Inpatient Sample data (2005-2017) to identify adult admissions (>18 years) with AMI-CS. MCS devices were classified as intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), percutaneous left ventricular assist devices (pLVAD), or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). We evaluated trends in the initial device used (IABP alone, pLVAD alone or ≥2 MCS devices), device escalation, bridging to durable LVAD/heart transplantation, and predictors of in-hospital mortality and device escalation.

RESULTS

Among 327,283 AMI-CS admissions, 131,435 (40.2%) had an MCS device placed with available information on timing of placement. IABP, pLVAD, and ≥2 MCS devices were used as initial device in 120,928 (92.0%), 8202 (6.2%), and 2305 (1.7%) admissions, respectively. Most admissions were maintained on the initial MCS device with 1%-1.5% being escalated (IABP to pLVAD/ECMO, pLVAD to ECMO). Urban, medium, and large-sized hospitals and acute multiorgan failure were significant independent predictors of MCS escalation. In admissions receiving MCS, escalation of MCS device was associated with higher in-hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio: 1.56, 95% confidence interval:  1.38-1.75; p < 0.001). Admissions receiving durable LVAD/heart transplantation increased over time in those initiated on pLVAD and ≥2 MCS devices, resulting in lower in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

In this 13-year study, escalation of MCS in AMI-CS was associated with higher in-hospital mortality suggestive of higher acuity of illness. The increase in number of durable LVAD/heart transplantations alludes to the role of MCS as successful bridge strategies.

Regional Variation in Health Care Utilization Among Adults With Inadequate Cardiovascular Health in the USA

Background Prior evidence of region-level differences in health outcomes and specialized healthcare services in the US poses questions of whether there are differences in utilization of healthcare that may account for regional differences in healthcare outcomes. This study aimed to examine regional differences in healthcare utilization for individuals with poor cardiovascular health (CVH) compared to those with ideal/intermediate CVH.  Methods In this cross-sectional analytical study, two 3-year periods (2008-2010 and 2018-2020) were pooled and analyzed using multivariate Poisson's regression of region on counts of healthcare utilization, while controlling for relevant covariates. The interaction of the non-southern regions with recent years was to reveal how the regional dispersion in healthcare usage was changing over time for the non-southern regions compared to the south. Results The results showed significant regional variation in healthcare usage for individuals with poor CVH, with lower health utilization rates observed primarily in southern states, consistent with higher rates of coronary heart disease in those regions. The impact of a unit improvement on CVH score was to reduce the level of healthcare utilization by 15.7% ([95% CI, 15 - 17%; p < 0.001]) for individuals with poor CVH and 19.1% ([95% CI, 19 - 20%; p < 0.001]) for the intermediate and ideal subgroups, with the Northeast exhibiting the highest level of healthcare usage. Conclusion Our results suggest that there is a need for public health interventions to reduce regional disparities in access to healthcare for the people at greatest risk of cardiovascular events by considering individual factors as well as the broader regional and policy contexts where these people live.

Hospitalization Duration for Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Temporal Analysis of 18-Year United States Data

Background and objectives: Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)-related outcomes in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) have improved over time, but there are limited data on the length of stay (LOS) in relation to in-hospital mortality. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort of adult AMI admissions was identified from the National Inpatient Sample (2000−2017) and stratified into short (≤3 days) and long (>3 days) LOS. Outcomes of interest included temporal trends in LOS and associated in-hospital mortality, further sub-stratified based on demographics and comorbidities. Results: A total 11,622,528 admissions with AMI were identified, with a median LOS of 3 (interquartile range [IQR] 2−6) days with 49.9% short and 47.3% long LOS, respectively. In 2017, compared to 2000, temporal trends in LOS declined in all AMI, with marginal increases in LOS >3 days and decreases for ≤3 days (median 2 [IQR 1−3]) vs. long LOS (median 6 [IQR 5−9]). Patients with long LOS had lower rates of coronary angiography and PCI, but higher rates of non-cardiac organ support (respiratory and renal) and use of coronary artery bypass grafting. Unadjusted in-hospital mortality declined over time. Short LOS had comparable mortality to long LOS (51.3% vs. 48.6%) (p = 0.13); however, adjusted in-hospital mortality was higher in LOS >3 days when compared to LOS ≤ 3 days (adjusted OR 3.00, 95% CI 2.98−3.02, p < 0.001), with higher hospitalization (p < 0.001) when compared to long LOS. Conclusions: Median LOS in AMI, particularly in STEMI, has declined over the last two decades with a consistent trend in subgroup analysis. Longer LOS is associated with higher in-hospital mortality, higher hospitalization costs, and less frequent discharges to home compared to those with shorter LOS.

Effect of Enalapril Combined with Bisoprolol on Cardiac Function and Inflammatory Indexes in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction

Objective

The use of enalapril in combination with bisoprolol in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) was studied for its effect on cardiac function and inflammatory parameters.

Methods

Sixty-two cases of AMI patients admitted to our clinic from November 2019 to November 2021 were selected for the study and grouped according to the random number table method, those enrolled were given conventional treatment such as oxygenation, absolute bed rest, and sedation, and administered low molecular heparin, aspirin, atorvastatin calcium tablets, clopidogrel, and nitrates. The control group (31 cases) was treated with enalapril maleate folic acid tablets, and the treatment group (31 cases) was treated with bisoprolol fumarate tablets on top of the control group, and the efficacy, adverse effects, cardiac function, inflammatory indexes, and oxidative stress indexes of the two arms were contrasted.

Results

The incidence of adverse reactions in the therapy cohort was 12.90% higher than that in the controlled arm, but the discrepancy was not medically relevant (P < 0.05). The SOD level was larger than the concentration in the corresponding drug therapy group, and the MDA level was lower than the concentration in the respective test cases (P < 0.05); the incidence of 12.90% adverse reactions in the treatment period was lower than that of 16.13% in the specific drug therapy group, but the variance was not scientifically evident (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Enalapril application combined with bisoprolol in AMI patients is beneficial to boost the efficacy, promote the improvement of cardiac function, reduce the inflammatory response, and improve the oxidative stress with fewer adverse effects, which can ensure the therapeutic security.

Racial and Ethnic Disparities in the Trends and Outcomes of Cardiogenic Shock Complicating Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

IMPORTANCE

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a recognized complication of peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) associated with poor prognosis. Although racial and ethnic disparities have been described in the occurrence and outcomes of PPCM, it is unclear if these disparities persist among patients with PPCM and CS.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the temporal trends in CS incidence among hospitalized patients with PPCM stratified by race and ethnicity and to investigate the racial and ethnic differences in hospital mortality, mechanical circulatory support (MCS) use, and heart transplantation (HT).

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This multicenter retrospective cohort study included hospitalized patients with PPCM complicated by CS in the US from 2005 to 2019 identified from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS). Data analysis was conducted in November 2021.

EXPOSURE

PPCM complicated by CS.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The main outcome was incidence of CS in PPCM stratified by race and ethnicity. The secondary outcome was racial and ethnic differences in hospital mortality, MCS use, and HT.

RESULTS

Of 55 804 hospitalized patients with PPCM, 1945 patients had CS, including 947 Black patients, 236 Hispanic patients, and 702 White patients, translating to an incidence rate of 35 CS events per 1000 patients with PPCM. The mean (SD) age was 31 (9) years. Black and Hispanic patients had higher CS incidence rates (39 events per 1000 patients with PPCM) compared with White patients (33 events per 1000 patients with PPCM). CS incidence rates significantly increased across all races and ethnicities over the study period. Overall, the odds of developing CS were higher in Black patients (aOR, 1.17 [95% CI, 1.15-1.57]; P < .001) and Hispanic patients (aOR, 1.37 [95% CI, 1.17-1.59]; P < 001) compared with White patients during the study period. Compared with White patients, the odds of in-hospital mortality were higher in Black (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.67 [95% CI, 1.21-2.32]; P = .002) and Hispanic (aOR, 2.20 [95% CI, 1.45-3.33]; P < .001) patients. Hispanic patients were more likely to receive any type of MCS device (aOR, 2.23 [95% CI, 1.60-3.09]; P < .001), intraaortic balloon pump (aOR, 1.65 [95% CI, 1.11-2.44]; P < .001), and ventricular assisted device (aOR, 4.45 [95% CI, 2.45-8.08]; P < .001), compared with White patients. Black patients were more likely to receive VAD (aOR, 2.69 [95% CI, 1.63-4.42]; P < .001) compared with White patients. Black and Hispanic patients were significantly less likely to receive HT compared with White patients (Black patients: aOR, 0.51 [95% CI, 0.33-0.78]; P = .02; Hispanic patients: aOR, 0.15 [95% CI, 0.06-0.42]; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

These findings highlight significant racial disparities in mortality and HT among hospitalized patients with PPCM complicated by CS in the US. More research to identify factors of racial and ethnic disparities is needed to guide interventions to improve outcomes of patients with PPCM.

Management and Outcomes of Acute Myocardial Infarction-Cardiogenic Shock in Uninsured Compared With Privately Insured Individuals

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on uninsured patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction-cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS). This study sought to compare the management and outcomes of AMI-CS between uninsured and privately insured individuals.

METHODS

Using the National Inpatient Sample (2000-2016), a retrospective cohort of adult (≥18 years) uninsured admissions (primary payer-self-pay or no charge) were compared with privately insured individuals. Interhospital transfers were excluded. Outcomes of interest included in-hospital mortality, temporal trends in admissions, use of cardiac procedures, do-not-resuscitate status, palliative care referrals, and resource utilization.

RESULTS

Of 402 182 AMI-CS admissions, 21 966 (5.4%) and 93 814 (23.3%) were uninsured and privately insured. Compared with private insured individuals, uninsured admissions were younger, male, from a lower socioeconomic status, had lower comorbidity, higher rates of acute organ failure, ST-segment elevation AMI-CS (77.3% versus 76.4%), and concomitant cardiac arrest (33.8% versus 31.9%; all P<0.001). Compared with 2000, in 2016, there were more uninsured (adjusted odds ratio, 1.15 [95% CI, 1.13-1.17]; P<0.001) and less privately insured admissions (adjusted odds ratio, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.83-0.87]; P<0.001). Uninsured individuals received less frequent coronary angiography (79.5% versus 81.0%), percutaneous coronary intervention (60.8% versus 62.2%), mechanical circulatory support (54% versus 55.5%), and had higher palliative care (3.8% versus 3.2%) and do-not-resuscitate status use (4.4% versus 3.2%; all P<0.001). Uninsured admissions had higher in-hospital mortality (adjusted odds ratio, 1.62 [95% CI, 1.55-1.68]; P<0.001) and resource utilization.

CONCLUSIONS

Uninsured individuals have higher in-hospital mortality and lower use of guideline-directed therapies in AMI-CS compared with privately insured individuals.

A Comprehensive Appraisal of Risk Prediction Models for Cardiogenic Shock

ABSTRACT

Despite advances in early revascularization, percutaneous hemodynamic support platforms, and systems of care, cardiogenic shock (CS) remains associated with a mortality rate higher than 50%. Several risk stratification models have been derived since the 1990 s to identify patients at high risk of adverse outcomes. Still, limited information is available on the differences between scoring systems and their relative applicability to both acute myocardial infarction and advanced decompensated heart failure CS. Thus, we reviewed the similarities, differences, and limitations of published CS risk prediction models and herein discuss their suitability to the contemporary management of CS care.

Between-Center Variation in Outcome After Endovascular Treatment of Acute Stroke: Analysis of Two Nationwide Registries

BACKGROUND

Insight in differences in patient outcomes between endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) centers can help to improve stroke care. We assessed between-center variation in functional outcome of patients with acute ischemic stroke who were treated with EVT. We analyzed to what extent this variation may be explained by modifiable center characteristics.

METHODS

We used nationwide registry data of patients with stroke treated with EVT in the Netherlands and in the Czech Republic. Primary outcome was modified Rankin Scale score at 90 days as an indicator of disability. We used multilevel ordinal logistic regression to quantify the between-center variation in outcomes and the impact of patient and center characteristics. Between-center variation was expressed as the relative difference in odds of a more favorable modified Rankin Scale score between a relatively better performing center (75th percentile) and a relatively worse performing center (25th percentile).

RESULTS

We included a total of 4518 patients treated in 33 centers. Adjusted for patient characteristics, the odds of a more favorable outcome in a center at the 75th percentile of the outcome distribution were 1.46 times higher (95% CI, 1.31-1.70) than the odds in a center at the 25th percentile. Adjustment for center characteristics, including the median time between stroke onset and reperfusion per center, decreased this relative difference in odds to 1.30 (95% CI, 1.18-1.50, P=0.01). This translates into an absolute difference in likelihood of good functional outcome of 8% after adjustment for patient characteristics and to 5% after further adjustment for modifiable center characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

The considerable between-center variation in patient outcomes after EVT for acute ischemic stroke could be largely explained by center-specific characteristics, such as time to reperfusion. Improvement of these parameters may likely result in a decrease in center-specific differences, and an overall improvement in outcome of patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Mechanical Circulatory Device Utilization and Outcomes in Cardiogenic Shock

Objectives

This study evaluates the impact of socioeconomic status (SES) on utilization of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices and outcomes in cardiogenic shock (CS).

Background

CS is associated with significant mortality. There is increasing use of temporary MCS devices in CS, and its impact on outcomes is currently under investigation. There is a lack of data on the effect of SES on the utilization of MCS devices in CS.

Methods

CS hospitalizations were obtained from the State Inpatient Databases in 2016 from 9 states representing various regions in the United States. The study had exempt institutional review board status as the database includes deidentified data. Hospitalizations were separated into SES cohorts based on the median household income of the patient residence zip code. Utilization of MCS devices and revascularization procedures along with clinical outcomes with CS were compared across the quartiles.

Results

There were 38,520 hospitalizations identified with CS, 42.6% of which were secondary to acute myocardial infarction. Patients from higher SES areas were significantly older but had lower burden of comorbidities. Utilization of temporary MCS devices was higher for hospitalizations from higher SES regions (frequency from the lowest SES quartile to the highest SES quartile: 21.3%, 21.5%, 23.5, and 24.1%, P < .01), though revascularization rates were similar. However, there was no significant difference in overall mortality from CS among the 4 quartiles. Patients from regions of higher SES experienced increased hospital costs.

Conclusions

Higher SES regions had increased use of temporary MCS. There was no difference in mortality between SES cohorts.

Prothymosin α Gene Transfer Modulates Myocardial Remodeling after Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury

BACKGROUND

Prothymosin α (ProT), a polypeptide, attenuates inflammation and inhibits transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling in pulmonary tissues. We investigated the potential role of ProT in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (MyoIR) injury using ProT cDNA transfer.

METHODS

Serum ProT levels were investigated in cardiogenic shock patients with MyoIR (n = 9). In addition, the myocardium of Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 52) was subjected to 25 min of ischemia followed by an injection of adenoviral vectors (2 × 10⁹ plaque-forming units) carrying ProT or the luciferase gene, 10 min before reperfusion. Echocardiography, serum ProT, and biochemical analyses of organ functions were performed before euthanasia, 14 days after treatment. Immunohistochemistry and immunoblotting of the myocardial tissue were also performed.

RESULTS

Serum ProT levels were transiently elevated in the rats and patients early after MyoIR, which was reduced to baseline levels in control rats and patients. ProT gene transfer persistently mobilized ProT serum levels, reduced dilatation, attenuated fibrotic changes, and preserved the left ventricular ejection fraction after MyoIR. Tissue thrombospondin-1 level was abundant, and matrix metalloproteinase-2, collagen I, and collagen IV levels were decreased in the treatment group. While TGF-β protein level remained stable, ProT transduction mobilized Smad7, which counteracted TGF-β. ProT reduced tissue microRNA-223 expression, inhibited the associated interleukin-1β, and preserved RAS p21 protein activator 1 protein abundance.

CONCLUSIONS

An increase in transient serum ProT levels could be a protective response in the acute stage of MyoIR. ProT gene transfer further preserved ventricular morphology and function through anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects in the subacute stage after injury.

Hemodynamic-based Assessment and Management of Cardiogenic Shock

Cardiogenic shock (CS) remains a deadly disease entity challenging patients, caregivers, and communities across the globe. CS can rapidly lead to the development of hypoperfusion and end-organ dysfunction, transforming a predictable hemodynamic event into a potential high-resource, intense, hemometabolic clinical catastrophe. Based on the scalable heterogeneity from a cellular level to healthcare systems in the hemodynamic-based management of patients experiencing CS, the authors present considerations towards systematic hemodynamic-based transitions in which distinct clinical entities share the common path of early identification and rapid transitions through an adaptive longitudinal situational awareness model of care that influences specific management considerations. Future studies are needed to best understand optimal management of drugs and devices along with engagement of health systems of care for patients with CS.

Competition and Integration of Health Systems in the Post-COVID-19 New Normal: Results from a Cross-Sectional Survey in the United States (Preprint)

Background

How do health systems in the United States view the concept of merger and acquisition (M&A) in a post-COVID 19 “new normal”? How do new entrants to the market and incumbents influence horizontal and vertical integration of health systems? Traditionally, it has been argued that M&A activity is designed to reduce inequities in the market, shift toward value-based care, or enhance the number and quality of health care offerings in a given market. However, the recent history of M&A activity has yielded fewer noble results. As might be expected, the smaller the geographical region in which M&A activity is pursued, the higher the likelihood that monopolistic tendencies will result.

Objective

We focused on three types of competition perceptions, external environment uncertainty–related competition, technology disruption–driven competition, and customer service–driven competition, and two integration plans, vertical integration and horizontal integration. We examined (1) how health system characteristics help discern competition perceptions and integration decisions, and (2) how environment-, technology-, and service-driven competition aspects influence vertical and horizontal integration among US health systems in the post-COVID-19 new normal.

Methods

We used data for this study collected through a consultant from a robust group of health system chief executive officers (CEOs) across the United States from February to March 2021. Among the 625 CEOs, 135 (21.6%) responded to our survey. We considered competition and integration aspects from the literature and ratified them via expert consensus. We collected secondary data from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) Compendium of the US Health Systems, leading to a matched data set for 124 health systems. We used inferential statistical comparisons to assess differences across health systems regarding competition and integration, and we used ordered logit estimations to relate competition and integration.

Results

Health systems generally have a high level of the four types of competition perceptions, with the greatest concern being technology disruption–driven competition rather than environment uncertainty–related competition and customer service–driven competition. The first set of estimation results showed that size, teaching status, revenue, and uncompensated care burden are the main contingent factors influencing the three competition perceptions. The second set of estimation results revealed the relationships between different competition perceptions and integration plans. For vertical integration, environment uncertainty–related competition had a significant positive influence (P<.001), while the influence of technology disruption–driven competition was significant but negative (P<.001). The influence of customer service–driven competition on vertical integration was not evident. For horizontal integration, the results were similar for environment uncertainty–related competition and technology disruption–driven competition; however, the significance of technology disruption–driven competition was weak (P=.05). The influence of customer service–driven competition in the combined model was significant and negative (P<.001).

Conclusions

Competition-driven integration has subtle influences across health systems. Environment uncertainty–related competition is a significant factor, with underlying contingent factors such as revenue concerns and leadership as the leading causes of integration plans. However, technology disruption may hinder integrations. Undoubtedly, small- and low-revenue health systems facing a high level of competition are likely to merge to navigate the health care business successfully. This trend should be a focus of policy to avoid monopolistic markets.

Trends and differences in management and outcomes of cardiac arrest in underweight and obese acute myocardial infarction hospitalizations

The influence of weight on in-hospital events of acute myocardial infarction complicated with cardiac arrest (AMI-CA) is understudied. To address this, we utilized the National Inpatient Sample database (2008-2017) to identify adult AMI-CA admissions and categorized them by BMI into underweight, normal weight, and overweight/obese groups. The outcomes of interest included differences in in-hospital mortality, use of invasive therapies, hospitalization costs, and hospital length of stay across the three weight categories. Of the 314,609 AMI-CA admissions during the study period, 268,764 (85.4%) were normal weight, 1,791 (0.6%) were underweight, and 44,053 (14.0%) were overweight/obese. Compared to 2008, in 2017, adjusted temporal trends revealed significant increase in prevalence of AMI-CA in underweight (adjusted OR {aOR} 3.88 [95% CI 3.04-4.94], P<0.001) category, and overweight/obese AMI-CA admissions (aOR 2.67 [95% CI 2.53-2.81], P<0.001). AMI-CA admissions that were underweight were older, more often female, with greater comorbidity burden, and presented more often with non-ST-segment-elevation AMI, non-shockable rhythm, and in-hospital arrest. Overweight/obesity was associated with higher use of angiography, PCI, and greater need for mechanical circulatory support whereas underweight status had the lowest use of these procedures. Compared to normal weight AMI-CA admissions, underweight admissions had comparable adjusted in-hospital mortality (adjusted OR 0.97 [95% CI 0.87-1.09], P=0.64) whereas overweight/obese admissions had lower in-hospital mortality (adjusted OR 0.92 [95% CI 0.90-0.95], P<0.001). In conclusion, underweight AMI-CA admissions were associated with lower use of cardiac procedures and had in-hospital mortality comparable to normal weight admissions. Overweight/obese status was associated with higher rates of cardiac procedures and lower in-hospital mortality.

Impact of concomitant respiratory infections in the management and outcomes acute myocardial infarction-cardiogenic shock

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prevalence and impact of respiratory infections in cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction (AMI-CS).

METHODS

Using the National Inpatient Sample (2000-2017), this study identified adult (≥18 years) admitted with AMI-CS complicated by respiratory infections. Outcomes of interest included in-hospital mortality of AMI-CS admissions with and without respiratory infections, hospitalization costs, hospital length of stay, and discharge disposition. Temporal trends of prevalence, in-hospital mortality and cardiac procedures were evaluated.

RESULTS

Among 557,974 AMI-CS admissions, concomitant respiratory infections were identified in 84,684 (15.2%). Temporal trends revealed a relatively stable trend in prevalence of respiratory infections over the 18-year period. Admissions with respiratory infections were on average older, less likely to be female, with greater comorbidity, had significantly higher rates of NSTEMI presentation, and acute non-cardiac organ failure compared to those without respiratory infections (all p < 0.001). These admissions received lower rates of coronary angiography (66.8% vs 69.4%, p < 0.001) and percutaneous coronary interventions (44.8% vs 49.5%, p < 0.001), with higher rates of mechanical circulatory support, pulmonary artery catheterization, and invasive mechanical ventilation compared to AMI-CS admissions without respiratory infections (all p < 0.001). The in-hospital mortality was lower among AMI-CS admissions with respiratory infections (31.6% vs 38.4%, adjusted OR 0.58 [95% CI 0.57-0.59], p < 0.001). Admissions with respiratory infections had longer lengths of hospital stay (12^7-20 vs 6^3-11 days, p < 0.001), higher hospitalization costs and less frequent discharges to home (27.1% vs 44.7%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Respiratory infections in AMI-CS admissions were associated with higher resource utilization but lower in-hospital mortality.

Systems of Care in Cardiogenic Shock

Outcomes for cardiogenic shock (CS) patients remain relatively poor despite significant advancements in primary percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) and temporary circulatory support (TCS) technologies. Mortality from CS shows great disparities that seem to reflect large variations in access to care and physician practice patterns. Recent reports of different models to standardize care in CS have shown considerable potential at improving outcomes. The creation of regional, integrated, 3-tiered systems, would facilitate standardized interventions and equitable access to care. Multidisciplinary CS teams at Level I centers would direct care in a hub-and-spoke model through jointly developed protocols and real-time shared decision making. Levels II and III centers would provide early access to life-saving therapies and safe transfer to designated hub centers. In regions with large geographical distances, the implementation of telemedicine-cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) care can be an important resource for the creation of effective systems of care.

Body Mass Index and In-Hospital Management and Outcomes of Acute Myocardial Infarction

Background and Objectives: Contemporary data on the prevalence, management and outcomes of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in relation to body mass index (BMI) are limited. Materials and Methods: Using the National Inpatient Sample from 2008 through 2017, we identified adult AMI hospitalizations and categorized them into underweight (BMI < 19.9 kg/m²), normal BMI and overweight/obese (BMI > 24.9 kg/m²) groups. We evaluated in-hospital mortality, utilization of cardiac procedures and resource utilization among these groups. Results: Among 6,089,979 admissions for AMI, 38,070 (0.6%) were underweight, 5,094,721 (83.7%) had normal BMI, and 957,188 (15.7%) were overweight or obese. Over the study period, an increase in the prevalence of AMI was observed in underweight and overweight/obese admissions. Underweight AMI admissions were, on average, older, with higher comorbidity, whereas overweight/obese admissions were younger and had lower comorbidity. In comparison to the normal BMI and overweight/obese categories, significantly lower use of coronary angiography (62.3% vs. 74.6% vs. 37.9%) and PCI (40.8% vs. 47.7% vs. 19.6%) was observed in underweight admissions (all p < 0.001). The underweight category was associated with significantly higher in-hospital mortality (10.0% vs. 5.5%; OR 1.23 (95% CI 1.18–1.27), p < 0.001), whereas being overweight/obese was associated with significantly lower in-hospital mortality compared to normal BMI admissions (3.1% vs. 5.5%; OR 0.73 (95% CI 0.72–0.74), p < 0.001). Underweight AMI admissions had longer lengths of in-hospital stay with frequent discharges to skilled nursing facilities, while overweight/obese admissions had higher hospitalization costs. Conclusions: In-hospital management and outcomes of AMI vary by BMI. Underweight status was associated with worse outcomes, whereas the obesity paradox was apparent, with better outcomes for overweight/obese admissions.

Regional differences in presentation characteristics, use of treatments and outcome of patients with cardiogenic shock: Results from multicenter, international registry

BACKGROUND

Concurrent evidence about cardiogenic shock (CS) characteristics, treatment and outcome does not represent a global spectrum of patients and is therefore limited. The aim of this study was to investigate these regional differences.

METHODS

To investigate regional differences in presentation characteristics, treatments and outcomes of patients treated with all types of cardiogenic shock (CS) in a single calendar year on a multi-national level. Consecutive patients from 19 tertiary care hospitals in 13 countries with CS who were treated between January 1, 2018 and December 31, 2018 were enrolled in this study.

RESULTS

In total, 699 cardiogenic shock patients were included in this study. Of these patients, 440 patients (63%) were treated in European hospitals and 259 (37%) were treated in Non-European hospitals. Female patients (P<0.01) and patients with a previous myocardial infarction (P=0.02) were more likely to present at Non-European hospitals; whereas older patients (P=0.01) and patients with cardiogenic shock due to acute heart failure (P<0.01) were more likely to present at European hospitals. Vasopressor use was more likely in Non-European hospitals (P=0.04), whereas use of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) was more likely in European hospitals (P<0.01). Despite adjustment for relevant confounders, 30-day in-hospital mortality risk was comparably high in CS patients treated in European vs. Non-European hospitals (hazard ratio 1.08, 95% CI 0.84-1.39, P=0.56).

CONCLUSION

Despite marked heterogeneity in characteristics and treatment of CS patients, including fewer use of MCS but more frequent use of vasopressors in Non-European hospitals, 30-day in-hospital mortality did not differ between regions.

Influence of primary payer status on non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: 18-year retrospective cohort national temporal trends, management and outcomes

Background

The role of insurance on outcomes in non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) patients is limited in the contemporary era.

Methods

From the National Inpatient Sample, adult NSTEMI admissions were identified [2000–2017]. Expected primary payer was classified into Medicare, Medicaid, private, uninsured and others. Outcomes included in-hospital mortality, overall and early coronary angiography, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), resource utilization and discharge disposition.

Results

Of the 7,290,565 NSTEMI admissions, Medicare, Medicaid, private, uninsured and other insurances were noted in 62.9%, 6.1%, 24.1%, 4.6% and 2.3%, respectively. Compared to others, those with Medicare insurance older (76 vs. 53–60 years), more likely to be female (48% vs. 25–44%), of white race, and with higher comorbidity (all P<0.001). Population from the Medicare cohort had higher in-hospital mortality (5.6%) compared to the others (1.9–3.4%), P<0.001. With Medicare as referent, in-hospital mortality was higher in other {adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.15 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.11–1.19]; P<0.001}, and lower in Medicaid [aOR 0.95 (95% CI, 0.92–0.97); P<0.001], private [aOR 0.77 (95% CI, 0.75–0.78); P<0.001] and uninsured cohorts [aOR 0.97 (95% CI, 0.94–1.00); P=0.06] in a multivariable analysis. Coronary angiography (overall 52% vs. 65–74%; early 15% vs. 22–27%) and PCI (27% vs. 35–44%) were used lesser in the Medicare population. The Medicare population had longer lengths of stay, lowest hospitalization costs and fewer home discharges.

Conclusions

Compared to other types of primary payers, NSTEMI admissions with Medicare insurance had lower use of coronary angiography and PCI, and higher in-hospital mortality.

Digital Orientation of Health Systems in the Post-COVID-19 "New Normal" in the United States: Cross-sectional Survey

Background

Almost all health systems have developed some form of customer-facing digital technologies and have worked to align these systems to their existing electronic health records to accommodate the surge in remote and virtual care deliveries during the COVID-19 pandemic. Others have developed analytics-driven decision-making capabilities. However, it is not clear how health systems in the United States are embracing digital technologies and there is a gap in health systems’ abilities to integrate workflows with expanding technologies to spur innovation and futuristic growth. There is a lack of reliable and reported estimates of the current and futuristic digital orientations of health systems. Periodic assessments will provide imperatives to policy formulation and align efforts to yield the transformative power of emerging digital technologies.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore and examine differences in US health systems with respect to digital orientations in the post–COVID-19 “new normal” in 2021. Differences were assessed in four dimensions: (1) analytics-oriented digital technologies (AODT), (2) customer-oriented digital technologies (CODT), (3) growth and innovation–oriented digital technologies (GODT), and (4) futuristic and experimental digital technologies (FEDT). The former two dimensions are foundational to health systems’ digital orientation, whereas the latter two will prepare for future disruptions.

Methods

We surveyed a robust group of health system chief executive officers (CEOs) across the United States from February to March 2021. Among the 625 CEOs, 135 (22%) responded to our survey. We considered the above four broad digital technology orientations, which were ratified with expert consensus. Secondary data were collected from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Hospital Compendium, leading to a matched usable dataset of 124 health systems for analysis. We examined the relationship of adopting the four digital orientations to specific hospital characteristics and earlier reported factors as barriers or facilitators to technology adoption.

Results

Health systems showed a lower level of CODT (mean 4.70) or GODT (mean 4.54) orientations compared with AODT (mean 5.03), and showed the lowest level of FEDT orientation (mean 4.31). The ordered logistic estimation results provided nuanced insights. Medium-sized (P<.001) health systems, major teaching health systems (P<.001), and systems with high-burden hospitals (P<.001) appear to be doing worse with respect to AODT orientations, raising some concerns. Health systems of medium (P<.001) and large (P=.02) sizes, major teaching health systems (P=.07), those with a high revenue (P=.05), and systems with high-burden hospitals (P<.001) have less CODT orientation. Health systems in the midwest (P=.05) and southern (P=.04) states are more likely to adopt GODT, whereas high-revenue (P=.004) and investor-ownership (P=.01) health systems are deterred from GODT. Health systems of a medium size, and those that are in the midwest (P<.001), south (P<.001), and west (P=.01) are more adept to FEDT, whereas medium (P<.001) and high-revenue (P<.001) health systems, and those with a high discharge rate (P=.04) or high burden (P=.003, P=.005) have subdued FEDT orientations.

Conclusions

Almost all health systems have some current foundational digital technological orientations to glean intelligence or service delivery to customers, with some notable exceptions. Comparatively, fewer health systems have growth or futuristic digital orientations. The transformative power of digital technologies can only be leveraged by adopting futuristic digital technologies. Thus, the disparities across these orientations suggest that a holistic, consistent, and well-articulated direction across the United States remains elusive. Accordingly, we suggest that a policy strategy and financial incentives are necessary to spur a well-visioned and articulated digital orientation for all health systems across the United States. In the absence of such a policy to collectively leverage digital transformations, differences in care across the country will continue to be a concern.

Outcomes of cardiac arrest complicating acute myocardial infarction in patients with current and historical cancer: An 18-year United States cohort study

BACKGROUND

Data regarding cardiac arrest (CA) complicating acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients with cancers are limited.

METHODS

Using the HCUP-NIS database (2000-2017), we identified adult admissions with AMI-CA and current or historical cancers to evaluate in-hospital mortality, utilization of coronary angiography, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), mechanical circulatory support (MCS), palliative care consultation, do-not-resuscitate status use, among those with current, historical and without cancer.

RESULTS

Of 11,622,528 AMI admissions, CA was noted in 584,263 (5.0%). Current and historical cancers were identified in 14,790 (2.5%) and 26,939 (4.6%), respectively. Both current and historical cancer groups were on average older, of white race, had greater comorbidity, and received care at small/medium-sized hospitals compared to those without. The current cancer cohort had the lowest rates of coronary angiography (45.2% vs. 59.2% vs. 63.3%), PCI (32.4% vs. 42.3% vs. 47.0%), MCS (13.5% vs. 16.5% vs. 20.9%) and CABG (4.1% vs. 7.6% vs. 10.2%) compared to the historical cancer and no cancer cohorts (all p < 0.001). Compared to those without, the current (61.1% vs. 44.0%; adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.25 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.20-1.31], p < 0.001) and historical cancer cohorts (52.2% vs. 44.0%; adjusted OR 1.05 [95% CI 1.01-1.08], p = 0.003) had higher in-hospital mortality. Cancer admissions had higher rates of palliative care consultations and do-not-resuscitate status.

CONCLUSION

AMI-CA admissions with cancer were older, had lower utilization of cardiac procedures, and higher rates of palliative care and do-not-resuscitate status and in-hospital mortality compared to those without cancer.

Temporal Trends, Clinical Characteristics, and Outcomes of Emergent Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting for Acute Myocardial Infarction in the United States

Background There are limited contemporary data on the use of emergent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in acute myocardial infarction. Methods and Results Adult (aged >18 years) acute myocardial infarction admissions were identified using the National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample (2000-2017) and classified by tertiles of admission year. Outcomes of interest included temporal trends of CABG use; age-, sex-, and race-stratified trends in CABG use; in-hospital mortality; hospitalization costs; and hospital length of stay. Of the 11 622 528 acute myocardial infarction admissions, emergent CABG was performed in 1 071 156 (9.2%). CABG utilization decreased overall (10.5% [2000] to 8.7% [2017]; adjusted odds ratio [OR], 0.98 [95% CI, 0.98-0.98]; P<0.001), in ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (10.2% [2000] to 5.2% [2017]; adjusted OR, 0.95 [95% CI, 0.95-0.95]; P<0.001) and non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (10.8% [2000] to 10.0% [2017]; adjusted OR, 0.99 [95% CI, 0.99-0.99]; P<0.001), with consistent age, sex, and race trends. In 2012 to 2017, compared with 2000 to 2005, admissions receiving emergent CABG were more likely to have non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (80.5% versus 56.1%), higher rates of noncardiac multiorgan failure (26.1% versus 8.4%), cardiogenic shock (11.5% versus 6.4%), and use of mechanical circulatory support (19.8% versus 18.7%). In-hospital mortality in CABG admissions decreased from 5.3% (2000) to 3.6% (2017) (adjusted OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.88-0.89 [P<0.001]) in the overall cohort, with similar temporal trends in patients with ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction and non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction. An increase in lengths of hospital stay and hospitalization costs was seen over time. Conclusions Utilization of CABG has decreased substantially in acute myocardial infarction admissions, especially in patients with ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction. Despite an increase in acuity and multiorgan failure, in-hospital mortality consistently decreased in this population.

Epidemiology of cardiogenic shock and cardiac arrest complicating non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: 18-year US study

Aims

This study aims to evaluate the impact of the combination of cardiogenic shock (CS) and cardiac arrest (CA) complicating non‐ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

Methods and results

Adult (>18 years) NSTEMI admissions using the National Inpatient Sample database (2000 to 2017) were stratified by the presence of CA and/or CS. Outcomes of interest included in‐hospital mortality, early coronary angiography, hospitalization costs, and length of stay. Of the 7 302 447 hospitalizations due to NSTEMI, 147 795 (2.0%) had CS only, 155 522 (2.1%) had CA only, and 41 360 (0.6%) had both CS and CA. Compared with 2000, the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence interval (CIs) for CS, CA, and both CS and CA in 2017 were 3.75 (3.58–3.92), 1.46 (1.42–1.50), and 4.52 (4.16–4.87), respectively (all P < 0.001). The CS + CA (61.2%) cohort had higher multiorgan failure than CS (42.3%) and CA only (32.0%) cohorts, P < 0.001. The CA only cohort had lower rates of overall (52% vs. 59–60%) and early (17% vs. 18–27%) angiography compared with the other groups (all P < 0.001). CS + CA admissions had higher in‐hospital mortality compared with those with CS alone (aOR 4.12 [95% CI 4.00–4.24]), CA alone (aOR 1.69 [95% CI 1.65–1.74]), or without CS/CA (aOR 22.66 [95% CI 22.06–23.27]). The presence of CS, either alone or with CA, was associated with higher hospitalization costs and longer hospital length of stay.

Conclusions

The combination of CS and CA is associated with higher rates of acute non‐cardiac organ failure and in‐hospital mortality in NSTEMI admissions as compared with those with either CS or CA alone.

Racial Disparities in the Utilization and Outcomes of Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support for Acute Myocardial Infarction-Cardiogenic Shock

Racial disparities in utilization and outcomes of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) in patients with acute myocardial infarction-cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS) are infrequently studied. This study sought to evaluate racial disparities in the outcomes of MCS in AMI-CS. The National Inpatient Sample (2012–2017) was used to identify adult AMI-CS admissions receiving MCS support. MCS devices were classified as intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP), percutaneous left ventricular assist device (pLVAD) or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Self-reported race was classified as white, black and others. Outcomes included in-hospital mortality, hospital length of stay and discharge disposition. During this period, 90,071 admissions were included with white, black and other races constituting 73.6%, 8.3% and 18.1%, respectively. Compared to white and other races, black race admissions were on average younger, female, with greater comorbidities, and non-cardiac organ failure (all p < 0.001). Compared to the white race (31.3%), in-hospital mortality was comparable in black (31.4%; adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.98 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.93–1.05); p = 0.60) and other (30.2%; aOR 0.96 (95% CI 0.92–1.01); p = 0.10). Higher in-hospital mortality was noted in non-white races with concomitant cardiac arrest, and those receiving ECMO support. Black admissions had longer lengths of hospital stay (12.1 ± 14.2, 10.3 ± 11.2, 10.9 ± 1.2 days) and transferred less often (12.6%, 14.2%, 13.9%) compared to white and other races (both p < 0.001). In conclusion, this study of AMI-CS admissions receiving MCS devices did not identify racial disparities in in-hospital mortality. Black admissions had longer hospital stay and were transferred less often. Further evaluation with granular data including angiographic and hemodynamic parameters is essential to rule out racial differences.

Influence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection on the Management and Outcomes of Acute Myocardial Infarction With Cardiogenic Shock

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on the outcomes of acute myocardial infarction-cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS) in patients with HIV infection and AIDS.

SETTING

Twenty percent sample of all US hospitals.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of AMI-CS during 2000-2017 from the National Inpatient Sample was evaluated for concomitant HIV and AIDS. Outcomes of interest included in-hospital mortality and use of cardiac procedures. A subgroup analysis was performed for those with and without AIDS within the HIV cohort.

RESULTS

A total 557,974 AMI-CS admissions were included, with HIV and AIDS in 1321 (0.2%) and 985 (0.2%), respectively. The HIV cohort was younger (54.1 vs. 69.0 years), more often men, of non-White race, uninsured, from a lower socioeconomic status, and with higher comorbidity (all P < 0.001). The HIV cohort had comparable multiorgan failure (37.8% vs. 39.0%) and cardiac arrest (28.7% vs. 27.4%) (P > 0.05). The cohorts with and without HIV had comparable rates of coronary angiography (70.2% vs. 69.0%; P = 0.37) but less frequent early coronary angiography (hospital day zero) (39.1% vs. 42.5%; P < 0.001). The cohort with HIV had higher unadjusted but comparable adjusted in-hospital mortality compared with those without [26.9% vs. 37.4%; adjusted odds ratio 1.04 (95% confidence interval: 0.90 to 1.21); P = 0.61]. In the HIV cohort, AIDS was associated with higher in-hospital mortality [28.8% vs. 21.1%; adjusted odds ratio 4.12 (95% confidence interval: 1.89 to 9.00); P < 0.001].

CONCLUSIONS

The cohort with HIV had comparable rates of cardiac procedures and in-hospital mortality; however, those with AIDS had higher in-hospital mortality.

Variation in the use of percutaneous coronary interventions among older patients with acute coronary syndromes: a multilevel study in Fukuoka, Japan

BACKGROUND

Variation in health care delivery among regions and hospitals has been observed worldwide and reported to have resulted in health inequalities. Regional variation of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was previously reported in Japan. This study aimed to assess the small-area and hospital-level variations and to examine the influence of patient and hospital characteristics on the use of PCI.

METHODS

Data provided by the Fukuoka Prefecture Latter-stage Elderly Insurance Association was used. There were 11,821 patients aged ≥65 years with acute coronary syndromes who were identified from 2015 to 2017. Three-level multilevel logistic regression analyses were performed to quantify the small-area and hospital variations, as well as, to identify the determinants of PCI use.

RESULTS

The results showed significant variation (δ² = 0.744) and increased PCI use (MOR = 2.425) at the hospital level. After controlling patient- and hospital-level characteristics, a large proportional change in cluster variance was found at the hospital level (PCV 14.7%). Fixed-effect estimation results showed that females, patients aged ≥80 years old, hypertension and dyslipidemia had significant association with the use of PCI. Hospitals with high physician density had a significantly positive relationship with PCI use.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients receiving care in hospitals located in small areas have equitable access to PCI. Hospital-level variation might be originated from the oversupply of physicians. A balanced number of physicians and beds should be taken into consideration during healthcare allocation. A treatment process guideline on PCI targeting older patients is also needed to ensure a more equitable access for healthcare resources.

Fibrinolysis vs. primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction cardiogenic shock

AIMS

There are limited contemporary data on the use of initial fibrinolysis in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction cardiogenic shock (STEMI-CS). This study sought to compare the outcomes of STEMI-CS receiving initial fibrinolysis vs. primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI).

METHODS

Using the National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample from 2009 to 2017, a comparative effectiveness study of adult (>18 years) STEMI-CS admissions receiving pre-hospital/in-hospital fibrinolysis were compared with those receiving PPCI. Admissions with alternate indications for fibrinolysis and STEMI-CS managed medically or with surgical revascularization (without fibrinolysis) were excluded. Outcomes of interest included in-hospital mortality, development of non-cardiac organ failure, complications, hospital length of stay, hospitalization costs, use of palliative care, and do-not-resuscitate status.

RESULTS

During 2009-2017, 5297 and 110 452 admissions received initial fibrinolysis and PPCI, respectively. Compared with those receiving PPCI, the fibrinolysis group was more often non-White, with lower co-morbidity, and admitted on weekends and to small rural hospitals (all P < 0.001). In the fibrinolysis group, 95.3%, 77.4%, and 15.7% received angiography, PCI, and coronary artery bypass grafting, respectively. The fibrinolysis group had higher rates of haemorrhagic complications (13.5% vs. 9.9%; P < 0.001). The fibrinolysis group had comparable all-cause in-hospital mortality [logistic regression analysis: 28.8% vs. 28.5%; propensity-matched analysis: 30.8% vs. 30.3%; adjusted odds ratio 0.97 (95% confidence interval 0.90-1.05); P = 0.50]. The fibrinolysis group had comparable rates of acute organ failure, hospital length of stay, rates of palliative care referrals, do-not-resuscitate status use, and lesser hospitalization costs.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of initial fibrinolysis had comparable in-hospital mortality than those receiving PPCI in STEMI-CS in the contemporary era in this large national observational study.

Temporal Trends, Predictors, and Outcomes of Acute Ischemic Stroke in Acute Myocardial Infarction in the United States

Background

There are limited contemporary data prevalence and outcomes of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) complicating acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Methods and Results

Adult (>18 years) AMI admissions using the National Inpatient Sample database (2000–2017) were evaluated for in‐hospital AIS. Outcomes of interest included in‐hospital mortality, hospitalization costs, length of stay, discharge disposition, and use of tracheostomy and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy. The discharge destination was used to classify survivors into good and poor outcomes. Of a total 11 622 528 AMI admissions, 183 896 (1.6%) had concomitant AIS. As compared with 2000, in 2017, AIS rates increased slightly among ST‐segment–elevation AMI (adjusted odds ratio, 1.10 [95% CI, 1.04–1.15]) and decreased in non–ST‐segment–elevation AMI (adjusted odds ratio, 0.47 [95% CI, 0.46–0.49]) admissions (P<0.001). Compared with those without, the AIS cohort was on average older, female, of non‐White race, with greater comorbidities, and higher rates of arrhythmias. The AMI‐AIS admissions received less frequent coronary angiography (46.9% versus 63.8%) and percutaneous coronary intervention (22.7% versus 41.8%) (P<0.001). The AIS cohort had higher in‐hospital mortality (16.4% versus 6.0%; adjusted odds ratio, 1.75 [95% CI, 1.72–1.78]; P<0.001), longer hospital length of stay, higher hospitalization costs, greater use of tracheostomy and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, and less frequent discharges to home (all P<0.001). Among AMI‐AIS survivors (N=153 318), 57.3% had a poor functional outcome at discharge with relatively stable temporal trends.

Conclusions

AIS is associated with significantly higher in‐hospital mortality and poor functional outcomes in AMI admissions.

Influence of primary payer status on the management and outcomes of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in the United States

Background

There are limited contemporary data on the influence of primary payer status on the management and outcomes of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Objective

To assess the influence of insurance status on STEMI outcomes.

Methods

Adult (>18 years) STEMI admissions were identified using the National Inpatient Sample database (2000–2017). Expected primary payer was classified into Medicare, Medicaid, private, uninsured and others. Outcomes of interest included in-hospital mortality, use of coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), hospitalization costs, hospital length of stay and discharge disposition.

Results

Of the 4,310,703 STEMI admissions, Medicare, Medicaid, private, uninsured and other insurances were noted in 49.0%, 6.3%, 34.4%, 7.2% and 3.1%, respectively. Compared to the others, the Medicare cohort was older (75 vs. 53–57 years), more often female (46% vs. 20–36%), of white race, and with higher comorbidity (all p<0.001). The Medicare and Medicaid population had higher rates of cardiogenic shock and cardiac arrest. The Medicare cohort had higher in-hospital mortality (14.2%) compared to the other groups (4.1–6.7%), p<0.001. In a multivariable analysis (Medicare referent), in-hospital mortality was higher in uninsured (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.14 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.11–1.16]), and lower in Medicaid (aOR 0.96 [95% CI 0.94–0.99]; p = 0.002), privately insured (aOR 0.73 [95% CI 0.72–0.75]) and other insurance (aOR 0.91 [95% CI 0.88–0.94]); all p<0.001. Coronary angiography (60% vs. 77–82%) and PCI (45% vs. 63–70%) were used less frequently in the Medicare population compared to others. The Medicare and Medicaid populations had longer lengths of hospital stay, and the Medicare population had the lowest hospitalization costs and fewer discharges to home.

Conclusions

Compared to other types of primary payers, STEMI admissions with Medicare insurance had lower use of coronary angiography and PCI, and higher in-hospital mortality.

Contemporary National Outcomes of Acute Myocardial Infarction-Cardiogenic Shock in Patients with Prior Chronic Kidney Disease and End-Stage Renal Disease

Background: There are limited data on acute myocardial infarction with cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS) stratified by chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages. Objective: To assess clinical outcomes in AMI-CS stratified by CKD stages. Methods: A retrospective cohort of AMI-CS during 2005–2016 from the National Inpatient Sample was categorized as no CKD, CKD stage-III (CKD-III), CKD stage-IV (CKD-IV) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). CKD-I/II were excluded. Outcomes included in-hospital mortality, use of coronary angiography, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and mechanical circulatory support (MCS). We also evaluated acute kidney injury (AKI) and acute hemodialysis in non-ESRD admissions. Results: Of 372,412 AMI-CS admissions, CKD-III, CKD-IV and ESRD comprised 20,380 (5.5%), 7367 (2.0%) and 18,109 (4.9%), respectively. Admissions with CKD were, on average, older, of the White race, bearing Medicare insurance, of a lower socioeconomic stratum, with higher comorbidities, and higher rates of acute organ failure. Compared to the cohort without CKD, CKD-III, CKD-IV and ESRD had lower use of coronary angiography (72.7%, 67.1%, 56.9%, 61.1%), PCI (53.7%, 43.8%, 38.4%, 37.6%) and MCS (47.9%, 38.3%, 33.3%, 34.2%), respectively (all p < 0.001). AKI and acute hemodialysis use increased with increase in CKD stage (no CKD–38.5%, 2.6%; CKD-III–79.1%, 6.5%; CKD-IV–84.3%, 12.3%; p < 0.001). ESRD (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.25 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.21–1.31]; p < 0.001), but not CKD-III (OR 0.72 [95% CI 0.69–0.75); p < 0.001) or CKD-IV (OR 0.82 [95 CI 0.77–0.87] was predictive of in-hospital mortality. Conclusions: CKD/ESRD is associated with lower use of evidence-based therapies. ESRD was an independent predictor of higher in-hospital mortality in AMI-CS.

Comparison of Complications and In-Hospital Mortality in Takotsubo (Apical Ballooning/Stress) Cardiomyopathy Versus Acute Myocardial Infarction

There are limited data on the incidence of complications and in-hospital outcomes, in patients with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC), as compared with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). From 2007 to 2014, a retrospective cohort of TC was compared with AMI using the National Inpatient Sample database. Complications were classified as acute heart failure, ventricular arrhythmic, cardiac arrest, high-grade atrioventricular block, mechanical, vascular/access, pericardial, stroke, and acute kidney injury. Temporal trends, clinical characteristics, and in-hospital outcomes were compared. During the 8-year period, 3,329,876 admissions for AMI or TC were identified. TC diagnosis was present in 88,849 (2.7%). Compared with AMI admissions, those with TC were older, female, and of white race. Use of pulmonary artery catheter and mechanical ventilation was higher, but hemodialysis lower in TC. The overall frequency of complications was higher in TC (38.2% vs 32.6%). Complication rates increased in both groups over time, but the delta was greater for TC (23% [2007] vs 43% [2014]) compared with AMI (27% vs 36%). The TC cohort had a higher rate of heart failure (29% vs 16.6%) and strokes (0.5% vs 0.2%), but lower rates of other complications (all p <0.001). In-hospital mortality was lower for TC (2.6% vs 3.1%; p <0.001). TC was an independent predictor of lower in-hospital mortality in admissions with complications. In conclusion, compared with AMI, TC is associated with greater likelihood of heart failure, but lower rates of other complications and mortality. There has been a temporal increase in the rates of in-hospital complications and mortality due to TC.

Sex Disparities in the Management and Outcomes of Cardiogenic Shock Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction in the Young

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on how sex influences the outcomes of acute myocardial infarction-cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS) in young adults.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of AMI-CS admissions aged 18 to 55 years, during 2000 to 2017, was identified using the National Inpatient Sample. Use of coronary angiography, percutaneous coronary intervention, mechanical circulatory support and noncardiac interventions was identified. Outcomes of interest included in-hospital mortality, use of cardiac interventions, hospitalization costs, and length of stay.

RESULTS

A total 90 648 AMI-CS admissions ≤55 years of age were included, of which 26% were women. Higher rates of CS were noted in men (2.2% in 2000 to 4.8% in 2017) compared with women (2.6% in 2000 to 4.0% in 2017; P<0.001). Compared with men, women with AMI-CS were more frequently of Black race, from a lower socioeconomic status, with higher comorbidity, and admitted to rural and small hospitals (all P<0.001). Women had lower rates of ST-segment elevation presentation (73.0% versus 78.7%), acute noncardiac organ failure, cardiac arrest (34.3% versus 35.7%), and received less-frequent coronary angiography (78.3% versus 81.4%), early coronary angiography (49.2% versus 54.1%), percutaneous coronary intervention (59.2% versus 64.0%), and mechanical circulatory support (50.3% versus 59.2%; all P<0.001). Female sex was an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality (23.0% versus 21.7%; adjusted odds ratio, 1.11 [95% CI, 1.07-1.16]; P<0.001). Women had lower hospitalization costs ($156 372±$198 452 versus $167 669±$208 577; P<0.001) but comparable lengths of stay compared with men.

CONCLUSIONS

In young AMI-CS admissions, women are treated less aggressively and experience higher in-hospital mortality than men.

Complications from percutaneous-left ventricular assist devices versus intra-aortic balloon pump in acute myocardial infarction-cardiogenic shock

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on the complications with a percutaneous left ventricular assist device (pLVAD) vs. intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) in acute myocardial infarction-cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS).

OBJECTIVE

To assess the trends, rates and predictors of complications.

METHODS

Using a 17-year AMI-CS population from the National Inpatient Sample, AMI-CS admissions receiving pLVAD and IABP support were evaluated for vascular, lower limb amputation, hematologic, neurologic and acute kidney injury (AKI) complications. In-hospital mortality, hospitalization costs and length of stay in pLVAD and IABP cohorts with complications was studied.

RESULTS

Of 168,645 admissions, 7,855 (4.7%) receiving pLVAD support. The pLVAD cohort had higher comorbidity, cardiac arrest (36.1% vs. 29.7%) and non-cardiac organ failure (74.7% vs. 56.9%) rates. Complications were higher in pLVAD compared to IABP cohort-overall 69.0% vs. 54.7%; vascular 3.8% vs. 2.1%; lower limb amputation 0.3% vs. 0.3%; hematologic 36.0% vs. 27.7%; neurologic 4.9% vs. 3.5% and AKI 55.4% vs. 39.1% (all p<0.001 except for amputation). Non-White race, higher comorbidity, organ failure, and extracorporeal membrane oxygen use were predictors of complications for both cohorts. The pLVAD cohort with complications had higher in-hospital mortality (45.5% vs. 33.1%; adjusted odds ratio 1.65 [95% confidence interval 1.55-1.75]), shorter duration of hospital stay, and higher hospitalization costs compared to the IABP cohort with complications (all p<0.001). These results were consistent in propensity-matched pairs.

CONCLUSIONS

AMI-CS admissions receiving pLVAD had higher rates of complications compared to the IABP, with worse in-hospital outcomes in the cohort with complications.

Intracranial Hemorrhage Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction: An 18-Year National Study of Temporal Trends, Predictors, and Outcomes

BACKGROUND

There is a paucity of contemporary data on the burden of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) complicating acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This study sought to evaluate the temporal trends, predictors, and outcomes of ICH in AMI.

METHODS

The National Inpatient Sample (2000-2017) was used to identify adult (>18 years) AMI admissions with ICH. In-hospital mortality, hospitalization costs, length of stay, and measure of functional ability were the outcomes of interest. The discharge destination along with use of tracheostomy and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy were used to estimate functional burden.

RESULTS

Of a total 11,622,528 AMI admissions, 23,422 (0.2%) had concomitant ICH. Compared to those without, the ICH cohort was on average older, female, of non-White race, had greater comorbidities, and had higher rates of arrhythmias (all p < 0.001). Female sex, non-White race, ST-segment elevation AMI presentation, use of fibrinolytics, mechanical circulatory support, and invasive mechanical ventilation were identified as individual predictors of ICH. The AMI admissions with ICH received less frequent coronary angiography (46.9% vs. 63.8%), percutaneous coronary intervention (22.7% vs. 41.8%), and coronary artery bypass grafting (5.4% vs. 9.2%), as compared to those without (p < 0.001). ICH was associated with a significantly higher in-hospital mortality (41.4% vs. 6.1%; adjusted OR 5.65 (95% CI 5.47-5.84); p < 0.001), longer hospital length of stay, higher hospitalization costs, and greater use of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (all p < 0.001). Among ICH survivors (N = 13, 689), 81.3% had a poor functional outcome at discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

ICH causes a substantial burden in AMI due to associated higher in-hospital mortality and poor functional outcomes.

Management and outcomes of uncomplicated ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients transferred after fibrinolytic therapy

BACKGROUND

This study sought to assess the contemporary outcomes of patients transferred after receiving fibrinolytic therapy ('drip-and-ship') for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in the United States.

METHODS

During 2009-2016, adults (>18 years) with STEMI (>18 years) without cardiac arrest and cardiogenic shock that received fibrinolytic therapy and were subsequently transferred were identified using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS). These admissions were divided into those undergoing fibrinolysis alone, subsequent coronary angiography (CA) without revascularization and subsequent CA with revascularization. Outcomes of interest included in-hospital mortality, resource utilization, and discharge disposition.

RESULTS

A total of 27,454 STEMI admissions receiving a 'drip-and-ship strategy', 96.3% and 85.8% received subsequent coronary angiography and revascularization Admissions receiving CA and revascularization were younger, male, and with lower comorbidity. The fibrinolysis alone cohort had higher rates of organ failure, hemorrhagic sequelae, and intracranial hemorrhage. Compared to the fibrinolysis cohort, CA with revascularization (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.17 [95% confidence interval {CI} 0.11-0.27]; p < .001) but not CA without revascularization (OR 0.72 [95% CI 0.42-1.21]; p = .21) was associated with lower in-hospital mortality. The fibrinolysis alone cohort had higher use of do-not-resuscitate status (12.8%) and fewer discharges to home (56.6%) compared to cohorts undergoing CA without (1.7%; 86.9%) and with (0.3% and 91.2%) revascularization, respectively. Presence of complications, do-not-resuscitate status, and higher comorbidity were predictive of lower CA and revascularization use.

CONCLUSION

Fibrinolysis with subsequent revascularization is associated with excellent outcomes in STEMI. Admissions receiving fibrinolysis alone were systematically different, sicker and had poorer outcomes.

Inpatient Palliative Care Use in Patients With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Temporal Trends, Predictors, and Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a progressive disease associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Despite the negative impact of PAH on quality of life and survival, data on use of specialty palliative care services (PCS) is scarce.

RESEARCH QUESTION

We sought to evaluate the inpatient use of PCS in patients with PAH.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Using the National (Nationwide) Inpatient Sample, 30,495 admissions with a primary diagnosis of PAH were identified from 2001 through 2017. The primary outcome of interest was temporal trends and predictors of inpatient PCS use in patients with PAH.

RESULTS

The inpatient use of PCS was low (2.2%), but increased during the study period from 0.5% in 2001 to 7.6% in 2017, with a significant increase starting in 2009. White race, private insurance, higher socioeconomic status, hospital-specific factors, higher comorbidity burden (Charlson Comorbidity Index), cardiac and noncardiac organ failure, and use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and noninvasive mechanical ventilation were independent predictors of increased PCS use. PCS use was associated with a higher prevalence of do-not-resuscitate status, a longer length of stay, higher hospitalization costs, and increased in-hospital mortality with less frequent discharges to home, likely because these patients were also sicker (higher comorbidity index and illness acuity).

INTERPRETATION

The inpatient use of PCS in patients with PAH is low, but has been increasing over recent years. Despite increased PCS use over time, patient- and hospital-specific disparities in PCS use continue. Further studies evaluating these disparities and the role of PCS in the comprehensive care of PAH patients are warranted.