Reticulated Platelets Predict Cardiovascular Death and Adverse Events in Coronary Artery Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

 The pro-thrombotic immature or reticulated platelets (RPs) are known to be elevated in high-risk patients and in different pathological settings. It has been shown that RPs correlate with an insufficient antiplatelet response to antiplatelet agents. RPs are emerging novel predictors of adverse cardiovascular events in cardiovascular disease. This study, using the totality of existing evidence, evaluated the prognostic role of RPs in patients with coronary artery disease.

METHODS

 We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis including trials of acute and chronic coronary syndrome reporting clinical outcomes according to RPs levels in the peripheral blood. We compared patients with elevated RPs (RPshigh) to patients without elevated RPs (RPslow). Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs were used as metric of choice for treatment effects with random-effects models. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE). Secondary endpoints were cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, urgent coronary revascularization and bleedings.

RESULTS

 A total of 7 studies, including 2213 patients, were included. The risk for MACCE was significantly higher in RPshigh compared to RPslow patients (OR 2.67 [1.87; 3.81], I2  = 43.8%). RPshigh were associated with cardiovascular death (OR 2.09 [1.36; 3.22], I2  = 40.4%). No associations for RPshigh were detected with the other singular components of MACCE: myocardial infarction (OR 1.73 [0.89; 3.38] I2  = 60.5%) and stroke (OR 1.72 [0.59; 4.96] I2  = 21%). The risk of bleeding did not differ between groups(OR 0.58 [0.15; 2.22] I2  = 86.1%).

CONCLUSION

 Elevated RPs are significantly associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events and cardiovascular death.

Procedural success in transaxillary transcatheter aortic valve implantation according to type of transcatheter heart valve: results from the multicenter TAXI registry

BACKGROUND

Transaxillary (TAx) transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a preferred alternative access in patients ineligible for transfemoral TAVI.

AIMS

This study used the Trans-AXillary Intervention (TAXI) registry to compare procedural success according to different types of transcatheter heart valves (THV).

METHODS

For the TAXI registry anonymized data of patients treated with TAx-TAVI were collected from 18 centers. Acute procedural, early and 1-month clinical outcomes were adjudicated in accordance with standardized VARC-3 definitions.

RESULTS

From 432 patients, 368 patients (85.3%, SE group) received self-expanding (SE) THV and 64 patients (14.8%, BE group) received balloon-expandable (BE) THV. Imaging revealed lower axillary artery diameters in the SE group (max/min diameter in mm: 8.4/6.6 vs 9.4/6.8 mm; p < 0.001/p = 0.04) but a higher proportion of axillary tortuosity in BE group (62/368, 23.6% vs 26/64, 42.6%; p = 0.004) with steeper aorta-left ventricle (LV) inflow (55° vs 51°; p = 0.002) and left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT)-LV inflow angles (40.0° vs 24.5°; 0.002). TAx-TAVI was more often conducted by right sided axillary artery in the BE group (33/368, 9.0% vs 17/64, 26.6%; p < 0.001). Device success was higher in the SE group (317/368, 86.1% vs 44/64, 68.8%, p = 0.0015). In logistic regression analysis, BE THV were a risk factor for vascular complications and axillary stent implantation.

CONCLUSIONS

Both, SE and BE THV can be safely used in TAx-TAVI. However, SE THV were more often used and were associated with a higher rate of device success. While SE THV were associated with lower rates of vascular complications, BE THV were more often used in cases with challenging anatomical circumstances.

Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty for De Novo Lesions on the Left Anterior Descending Artery

BACKGROUND

Drug-coated balloons (DCB) are an emerging tool for modern percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), but evidence on their use for de novo lesions on large vessels is limited.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing DCB-based PCI on the left anterior descending artery in 2 Italian centers from 2018 to 2022 were retrospectively enrolled and compared with patients who received left anterior descending PCI with contemporary drug-eluting stents (DES). In-stent restenosis was excluded. The DCB group included both patients undergoing DCB-only PCI and those receiving hybrid PCI with DCB and DES combined. The primary end point was target lesion failure at 2 years, defined as the composite of target lesion revascularization, cardiac death, and target vessel myocardial infarction.

RESULTS

We included 147 consecutive patients undergoing DCB-based treatment on the left anterior descending artery and compared them to 701 patients who received conventional PCI with DES. In the DCB group, 43 patients (29.2%) were treated with DCB only and 104 (70.8%) with a hybrid approach; DCB length was greater than stent length in 55.1% of cases. Total treated length was higher in the DCB group (65 [40-82] versus 56 [46-66] mm; P=0.002), while longer DESs were implanted (38 [24-62] versus 56 [46-66] mm; P<0.001) and a higher rate of large vessels were treated (76.2% versus 83.5%; P=0.036) in the DES cohort. The cumulative 2-year target lesion failure incidence was not significantly different between the 2 groups (DCB, 4.1% versus DES, 9.8%; hazard ratio, 0.51 [95% CI, 0.20-1.27]; P=0.15). After a 1:1 propensity score matching resulting in 139 matched pairs, the DCB-based treatment was associated with a lower risk for target lesion failure at 2 years compared with DES-only PCI (hazard ratio, 0.2 [95% CI, 0.07-0.58]; P=0.003), mainly driven by less target lesion revascularization.

CONCLUSIONS

A DCB-based treatment approach for left anterior descending revascularization allows a significantly reduced stent burden, thereby potentially limiting target lesion failure risk at midterm follow-up.

Clinical and procedural outcomes of percutaneous coronary intervention for de novo lesions involving the ostial left circumflex coronary artery

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous treatment for ostial left circumflex artery (LCx) lesions is known to be associated with suboptimal results.

AIMS

The present study aims to assess the procedural and long-term clinical outcomes of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for de novo ostial LCx lesions overall and according to the coronary revascularization strategy.

METHODS

Consecutive patients undergoing PCI with second generation drug eluting stents or drug coated balloons for de novo ostial LCx lesions in three high-volume Italian centers between 2012 and 2021 were retrospectively evaluated. The primary endpoint was target-vessel revascularization (TVR) at 2 years. Secondary endpoints included major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), target lesion revascularization, myocardial infarction, stroke, all-cause death, and repeat revascularization.

RESULTS

A total of 366 patients were included in the analysis with a median follow-up of 901 (IQR: 450-1728) days. 79.5% of the patients were male, 33.6% were diabetic, 49.7% had a previous PCI, and 23.1% a prior surgical revascularization. Very ostial LCx stenting was performed in 34.1%, crossover from left main to LCx in 17.3%, and a two-stent strategy in 48.6% of cases, respectively. In the overall population, the incidence of TVR at 2 years was 19.0% while MACCE rate was 25.7%. No major differences in clinical outcomes were found according to the stenting strategy. Use of intracoronary imaging was associated with fewer MACCE (HR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.25-1.13, p = 0.01), while the diameter of the stent implanted in the ostial LCx was associated with less TVR (HR: 0.43, 95% CI: 0.25-0.75, p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous revascularization of the ostial LCx is associated with a high rate of TVR, regardless of the stenting strategy. Intracoronary imaging and proper stent sizing may reduce the failure rates.

Long-term prognostic impact of subclinical myocardial dysfunction in patients recovered from COVID-19

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular sequelae may occur in patients recovered from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Recent studies have detected a considerable incidence of subclinical myocardial dysfunction-assessed with speckle-tracking echocardiography-and of long-COVID symptoms in these patients. This study aimed to define the long-term prognostic role of subclinical myocardial dysfunction and long-COVID condition in patients recovered from COVID-19 pneumonia.

METHODS

We prospectively followed up 110 patients hospitalized at our institution due to COVID-19 pneumonia in April 2020 and then recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection. A 7-month clinical and echocardiographic evaluation was performed, followed by a 21-month clinical follow-up. The primary outcome was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), a composite of myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure hospitalization, and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

A subclinical myocardial dysfunction-defined as an impairment of left ventricular global longitudinal strain (≥-18%)-was identified at a 7-month follow-up in 37 patients (34%), was associated with an increased risk of long-term MACE with a good discriminative power (area under the curve: .73) and resulted in a strong independent predictor of extended MACE in multivariate regression analyses. Long-COVID condition was not associated with a worse long-term prognosis, instead.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients recovered from COVID-19 pneumonia, a subclinical myocardial dysfunction is present in one-third of the whole population at 7-month follow-up and is associated with a higher risk of MACE at long-term follow-up. Speckle-tracking echocardiography is a promising tool to optimize the risk-stratification in patients recovered from COVID-19 pneumonia, while the definition of a long-COVID condition has no prognostic relevance.

Procedural embolic protection strategies for carotid artery stenting: current status and future prospects

INTRODUCTION

Carotid artery angioplasty and stenting (CAS) is an established procedure to treat carotid artery stenosis for either primary or secondary prevention of stroke. Randomized clinical trials have shown an increased risk of periprocedural cerebrovascular events with CAS compared with carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Several strategies have been proposed to mitigate this risk, including alternative vascular access site, proximal/distal embolic protection devices, and dual-layer stents, among others.

AREAS COVERED

This review provides a general overview of current embolic protection strategies for CAS. The phases of the procedure which can affect the early risk of stroke and how to reduce it with novel techniques and devices have been discussed.

EXPERT OPINION

Innovations in device technologies have dramatically improved the safety and efficacy of CAS. To minimize the gap with surgery, a thorough, patient-oriented approach should be pursued. Endovascular technologies and techniques should be selected on an individual basis to address unique lesion characteristics and vascular anatomies. Meticulous pre-procedural planning, both clinical and anatomical, is needed to assess the embolic risk of each procedure. Only by having an in-depth understanding of the wide range of available endovascular devices and techniques, the operator will choose the most appropriate strategy to optimize CAS results.

Safety of metformin continuation in diabetic patients undergoing invasive coronary angiography: the NO-STOP single arm trial

BACKGROUND

Despite paucity of data, it is common practice to discontinue metformin before invasive coronary angiography due to an alleged risk of Metformin-Associated Lactic Acidosis (M-ALA). We aimed at assessing the safety of metformin continuation in diabetic patients undergoing coronary angiography in terms of significant increase in lactate levels.

METHODS

In this open-label, prospective, multicentre, single-arm trial, all diabetic patients undergoing coronary angiography with or without percutaneous coronary intervention at 3 European centers were screened for enrolment. The primary endpoint was the increase in lactate levels from preprocedural levels at 72-h after the procedure. Secondary endpoints included contrast associated-acute kidney injury (CA-AKI), M-ALA, and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

142 diabetic patients on metformin therapy were included. Median preprocedural lactate level was 1.8 mmol/l [interquartile range (IQR) 1.3-2.3]. Lactate levels at 72 h after coronary angiography were 1.7 mmol/l (IQR 1.3-2.3), with no significant differences as compared to preprocedural levels (p = 0.91; median difference = 0; IQR - 0.5 to 0.4 mmol/l). One patient had 72-h levels ≥ 5 mmol/l (5.3 mmol/l), but no cases of M-ALA were reported. CA-AKI occurred in 9 patients (6.1%) and median serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate remained similar throughout the periprocedural period. At a median follow-up of 90 days (43-150), no patients required hemodialysis and 2 patients died due to non-cardiac causes.

CONCLUSIONS

In diabetic patients undergoing invasive coronary angiography, metformin continuation throughout the periprocedural period does not increase lactate levels and was not associated with any decline in renal function.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04766008).

144 LONG-TERM PROGNOSTIC IMPACT OF SUBCLINICAL MYOCARDIAL DYSFUNCTION IN PATIENTS RECOVERED FROM COVID-19

Aims

Cardiovascular sequelae may occur in patients recovered from COVID-19. Recent studies have detected a considerable incidence of subclinical myocardial dysfunction – assessed with speckle-tracking echocardiography – and of long-COVID symptoms in these patients. This study aimed to define the long-term prognostic role of subclinical myocardial dysfunction and long-COVID condition in patients recovered from COVID-19 pneumonia.

Methods and Results

We prospectively followed-up 110 patients hospitalized at our Institution due to COVID-19 pneumonia in April 2020 and then recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection. A 6-month clinical and echocardiographic evaluation was performed, followed by a 21-month clinical follow-up. The primary outcome was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), a composite of myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure hospitalization and all-cause mortality. A subclinical myocardial dysfunction – defined as an impairment of left ventricular global longitudinal strain (≥ -18%) - was identified at 6-month follow-up in 37 patients (34%), was associated with an increased risk of long-term MACE with a good discriminative power (AUC: 0.73) and resulted a strong independent predictor of extended MACE in a multivariate regression analysis (OR 9.29, 95%CI 2.20–39.3, p=0.002). Long-COVID condition was not associated with a worse long-term prognosis, instead.

Conclusion

In patients recovered from COVID-19 pneumonia, a subclinical myocardial dysfunction is present in one third of the whole population at 6-month follow-up and is associated with a higher risk of MACE at long-term follow-up. Speckle-tracking echocardiography is a promising tool to optimise the risk-stratification in patients recovered from COVID-19 pneumonia, while the definition of a long-COVID condition has not prognostic relevance.

From surgical clamping to endovascular flow arrest/reversal: the concept behind the system

Carotid artery lesions are frequently composed of friable, thrombotic, ulcerated and/or hemorrhagic materials which can embolize during surgical or endovascular interventions. The use of embolic protection devices (EPD) during carotid angioplasty and stenting (CAS) has been proven to be associated with a reduction of the embolic load. Many studies indicate that the clinical results of CAS are comparable with the best surgical series, when EPD are routinely applied. The proximal EPD work by interrupting or reversing the blood flow in the common carotid artery/internal carotid artery (CCA/ICA). Once established the endovascular flow arrest/reversal, these systems have the advantages of promoting a protected crossing of the lesion and blocking both macro-emboli and micro-emboli. Moreover, proximal neuroprotection implies no manipulation of the device in the distal ICA, neither during device deployment nor during device retrieval, and reduces the risk of arterial spasm, dissection, or intimal damage. The choice between transfemoral and transcervical proximal EPD should account for different factors: local availability, operator expertise, and patient characteristics including anatomical features precluding flow arrest/reversal (e.g., incomplete circle of Willis), femoral access (e.g., unfavorable aortic arch anatomy), or transcervical access (e.g., diseased CCA).

Direct oral anticoagulants versus vitamin K antagonists in the treatment of left ventricular thrombosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Evidence about the use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in patients with left ventricular thrombosis (LVT) are emerging. The aim of our study was to provide a comprehensive synthesis of the available evidence concerning the clinical effects of DOACs versus vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in LVT treatment.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Systematic search of studies evaluating DOACs versus VKAs use in patients with LVT was performed on May 11^th, 2021. Data were pooled by meta-analysis using a random-effects model. Odds ratios (OR) with relative 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used as measures of effect estimates. The primary efficacy and safety endpoint were ischemic stroke and any bleeding, respectively. Secondary endpoints were LVT resolution, systemic embolism, major bleeding, hemorrhagic stroke, and all cause death.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Twenty studies were included in the meta-analysis: 1,391 patients were treated with DOACs and 1,534 with VKAs. A significant reduction in the risk of ischemic stroke (OR 0.67, 95% CI, 0.45-0.98, P=0.048, number needed to treat to benefit [NNTB] 22 [95% CI 15-43]) and any bleeding (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.46-0.89, P=0.009, NNTB 26 [95% CI 16-80]) was observed with DOACs compared to VKAs. No statistically significant difference was observed among the two treatment arms for the secondary endpoints.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to VKAs, DOACs are associated with a reduced risk of ischemic stroke and bleeding. In light of these findings, and the practical advantages of DOACs, additional large scale randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the benefits of DOACs in patients with LVT.

Distal vs Conventional Radial Access for Coronary Angiography and/or Intervention: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials

BACKGROUND

Emerging evidence from randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing distal radial access (DRA) with conventional radial access (RA) is available.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to provide a quantitative appraisal of the effects of DRA) vs conventional RA for coronary angiography with or without intervention.

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched for RCT comparing DRA vs conventional RA for coronary angiography and/or intervention. Data were pooled by meta-analysis using a random-effects model. The primary endpoint was radial artery occlusion (RAO) at the longest available follow-up.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies enrolling 6,208 participants were included. Compared with conventional RA, DRA was associated with a significant lower risk of RAO, either detected at latest follow-up (risk ratio [RR]: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.23-0.56; P < 0.001; number needed to treat [NNT] = 30) or in-hospital (RR: 0.32; 95% CI: 0.19-0.53; P < 0.001; NNT = 28), as well as EASY (Early Discharge After Transradial Stenting of Coronary Arteries) ≥II hematoma (RR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.27-0.96; P = 0.04; NNT = 107). By contrast, DRA was associated with a higher risk of access site crossover (RR: 3.08; 95% CI: 1.88-5.06; P < 0.001; NNT = 12), a longer time for radial puncture (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 3.56; 95% CI: 0.96-6.16; P < 0.001), a longer time for sheath insertion (SMD: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.16-0.58; P < 0.001), and a higher number of puncture attempts (SMD: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.48-0.69; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with conventional RA, DRA is associated with lower risks of RAO and EASY ≥II hematoma but requires longer time for radial artery cannulation and sheath insertion, more puncture attempts, and a higher access site crossover.

Long term follow-up after balloon expandable covered stents implantation for management of transcatheter aortic valve replacement related vascular access complications

OBJECTIVES

To report the experience of a high-volume center with balloon-expandable (BE) stents implantation to manage vascular complications after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

BACKGROUND

Despite increased operator experience and better devices, vascular complications after TAVR are still a major issue and covered stent implantation is often required.

METHODS

We retrospectively collected baseline and procedural data about 78 consecutive patients who underwent BE stent implantation to manage a vascular complication after transfemoral TAVR. Primary endpoints were technical success, incidence of new-onset claudication and need for vascular interventions during long-term follow-up. Secondary endpoints included length of hospitalization, in-hospital and 30-day mortality, and major postoperative complications.

RESULTS

BE stents implantation to manage vascular complications after TAVR was successfully performed in 96.2% of the cases, with bailout surgery required in two cases. One patient suffered in-hospital death. Predischarge Doppler Ultrasound revealed no cases of in-stent occlusion or fracture. At a median follow-up of 429 days (interquartile range, 89-994 days), no cases of symptomatic leg ischemia were reported and only one patient experienced new-onset claudication.

CONCLUSIONS

Our experience showed good periprocedural and long-term results of BE covered stent implantation to manage vascular complication after TAVR. Their great radial outward force may guarantee effective hemostasis without necessarily being associated with stent deformation/fracture resulting in restenosis or further interventions. More research is needed to define the role of BE covered stents in this setting.

Effects of distal radial access vs conventional radial access in patients undergoing coronary angiography and/or intervention: a meta-analysis of randomised trials

Background

Recently the distal radial access (DRA) technique has been introduced for coronary angiography and intervention as an alternative to the conventional radial access (RA).

Purpose

The aim of this study was to provide a quantitative appraisal of the effects of DRA vs conventional RA for coronary angiography with or without intervention.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched for randomised clinical trials (RCT) comparing DRA versus RA for coronary angiography and/or intervention. Data were pooled by meta-analysis using a random-effects model. The number of patients needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) and the number needed to treat for an additional harmful outcome (NNTH) were calculated. The primary endpoint was radial artery occlusion (RAO) at the longest available follow-up. Additional secondary outcomes were assessed.

Results

A total of 13 RCT including 4,901 patients were identified and included in the final analysis. Coronary angiography alone was performed in 3 studies, percutaneous coronary intervention was performed in a variable proportion of patients ranging from 24% to 100% across studies. Study population included patients with chronic coronary syndrome in the large majority, and the proportion of acute coronary syndrome ranged from to 31% to 100% across studies. Compared with RA, DRA was associated with a significant lower risk of RAO, either detected at the longest follow-up (risk ratio [RR]: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.23 to 0.58; p&lt;0.001, NNTB = 24.5), or in-hospital (RR: 0.32; 95% CI: 0.18 to 0.57; p&lt;0.001, NNTB = 21.5), as well as Early discharge after transradial stenting of coronary arteries (EASY) Scale ≥ II hematoma (RR: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.22 to 0.97; p=0.04, NNTB = 66). By contrast, DRA was associated with a higher risk of access site crossover (RR: 3.43; 95% CI: 1.88 to 6.25, p&lt;0.001, NNTH = 10), a longer time for radial artery puncture (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 3.56; 95% CI: 0.96 to 6.16; p&lt;0.001), and sheath insertion (SMD: 0.38; 95% CI: 0.11 to 0.65, p=0.006), and a higher number of puncture attempts (SMD: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.48 to 0.69, p&lt;0.001). A meta-regression analysis showed that increasing age in the RA group was associated with a reduced effect of DRA, compared with RA, on the risk of RAO. No significant effect of other variables such as the prevalence of female sex, diabetes, smoking status, acute coronary syndrome, and percutaneous coronary intervention was found.

Conclusions

Compared with RA, DRA is associated with lower risks of RAO and EASY ≥ II hematoma, but requires longer time for radial artery puncture and sheath insertion, more puncture attempts and a higher access site crossover.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Percutaneous vs surgical axillary access for transcatheter aortic valve implantation: the TAXI registry

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an established management strategy for severe aortic valve stenosis. Percutaneous axillary approach for TAVI holds the promise of improving safety without jeopardizing effectiveness in comparison to surgical access. We aimed at appraising the comparative effectiveness of percutaneous vs surgical axillary approaches for TAVI.

METHODS

We performed an international retrospective observational study using de-identified details on baseline, procedural, and 1-month follow-up features. Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC)-3 criteria were applied throughout. Outcomes of interest were clinical events up to 1 month of follow-up, compared with unadjusted and propensity score-adjusted analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 432 patients were included, 189 (43.8%) receiving surgical access, and 243 (56.2%) undergoing percutaneous access. Primary hemostasis failure was more common in the percutaneous group (13.2% vs 4.2%, p<0.001), leading to more common use of covered stent implantation (13.2% vs 3.7%, p<0.001). Irrespectively, percutaneous access was associated with shorter hospital stay (-2.6 days [95% confidence interval: -5.0; -0.1], p=0.038), a lower risk of major adverse events (a composite of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, type 3 bleeding, and major access-site related complication; odds ratio=0.44 [0.21; 0.95], p=0.036), major access-site non-vascular complications (odds ratio=0.21 [0.06; 0.77], p=0.018), and brachial plexus impairment (odds ratio=0.16 [0.03; 0.76], p=0.021), and shorter hospital stay (-2.6 days [-5.0; -0.1], p=0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous axillary access provides similar or better results than surgical access in patients undergoing TAVI with absolute or relative contraindications to femoral access.

Etiology, epidemiology, pathophysiology and management of tricuspid regurgitation: an overview

Significant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a common finding, affecting about one in twenty-five subjects among the elderly and presenting more frequently in women than in men. This review summarizes data concerning etiology, epidemiology, pathophysiology and management strategies of TR. The tricuspid valve (TV) has a broad anatomical variability. Classically, TR has been distinguished as primary and secondary or functional TR (FTR), with the latter being the most prevalent. FTR is a multifactorial disorder, resulting from maladaptive right ventricular remodeling secondary to pulmonary hypertension or from atrial fibrillation leading to dilation of the right atrium, tricuspid annulus and base of the right ventricle, with pathological TV coaptation. Thus two main types of FTR can be identified: pulmonary hypertension-FTR and idiopathic-FTR, depending on which factor, ventricular or atrial respectively, is the primum movens of the disease. Appreciable evidence suggests that significant TR leads to worsening prognosis regardless of the underlying etiology and should be addressed as a separate therapeutic target. The treatment of TR in patients undergoing left-sided cardiac surgery is well established. Isolated surgical repair of TR is instead rarely performed because patients are often deemed inoperable due to prohibitive risk. Besides, perioperative mortality remains higher than for any other valve. Several transcatheter TV replacement and repair systems, the latter mostly borrowed from percutaneous treatment systems of mitral regurgitation or from TV repair surgical techniques, have shown efficacy and safety when used on the TV. These could provide an effective treatment option for patients not eligible for surgery.

745 Meta-analysis comparing the safety and efficacy of ticagrelor monotherapy after a short course of ticagrelor-based dual antiplatelet therapy versus standard therapy in complex percutaneous coronary interventions

Aims

Current guidelines recommend dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor for 6–12 months after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). A shorter duration ticagrelor-based DAPT followed by ticagrelor monotherapy can significantly reduce bleeding events while preserving anti-ischaemic effects in patients undergoing conventional PCI. Whether this strategy can be safely and effectively applied to those patient that undergo ‘complex’ PCI is uncertain.

Methods

We performed a systematic search of randomized controlled trials comparing a short course of ticagrelor-based DAPT vs. standard DAPT in patients undergoing complex PCI. A mixed-effects Poisson regression model with random intervention effects was used to estimate the pooled incidence rate ratios (IRR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

Out of 10 689 studies screened, three were identified for a total of 4176 participants on ticagrelor monotherapy after a short course of ticagrelor based DAPT, and 4209 on standard DAPT. Overall, the pooled analysis showed a strong evidence that compared to standard treatment, ticagrelor monotherapy after a short course of ticagrelor-based DAPT (1–3 months) reduced the risk of cardiovascular death [IRR 0.52; CI (0.28–0.96); P = 0.04; I2 = 0%], all-cause death [IRR 0.65; CI (0.49–0.86); P = 0.003; I2 = 0%], and any bleeding events [IRR 0.62; CI (0.47–0.81); P &lt; 0.001; I2 = 44%]. Weak evidence was found of an association between the experimental strategy and a lower risk of myocardial infarction [IRR 0.79; CI (0.61–1.01); P = 0.06; I2 = 0%]. Instead, no significant difference in the risk of major bleeding [IRR 0.72; CI (0.48–1.08); P = 0.11; I2 = 61%], definite or probable stent thrombosis [IRR 0.77; CI (0.34–1.75); P = 0.53; I2 = 0%] and ischaemic stroke [IRR 0.83; CI (0.25–2.73); P = 0.76; I2 = 0%] was observed. We speculate that the observed mortality benefits might be related to the reduction of any bleeding events, mainly dictated by minor bleeding reduction, since major bleeding did not seem to be decreased in the shorter regimen group.

Conclusion

Among patients undergoing complex PCI, ticagrelor monotherapy after a short course of ticagrelor-based DAPT significantly reduced bleeding risk without increasing ischaemic risk. As complex PCI procedures are being increasingly performed nowadays, and more comorbid patients are being treated, more studies are required to confirm and explain these findings. This could lead to optimization of antiplatelet therapy across a broad spectrum of patients.

491 Short-term prognostic implications of left ventricular myocardial work indices in advanced heart failure patients treated with repetitive Levosimendan infusions

Aims

Repetitive Levosimendan treatment in advanced heart failure patients has not been investigated yet via myocardial work indices (MWI), which could more accurately detect the effects of this both inotropic and vasodilatory drug. The aims of this study were (1) to describe variations of myocardial work indices, as a consequence of repetitive Levosimendan infusions and (2) to assess the prognostic value of myocardial work parameters in these patients.

Methods and results

Fourteen patients with advanced heart failure treated with intermittent in-hospital levosimendan infusions were prospectively included. Clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic assessment were performed before and after every Levosimendan infusion. The primary endpoint was a composite of any episode of decompensated HF, urgent HF rehospitalization, cardiogenic shock, cardiac arrest and cardiovascular death at 4–6 weeks follow-up after each planned infusion. During follow-up (mean: 150 ± 99 days) a total of 37 infusions were performed and a total of 11 cardiovascular events occurred. Global constructive work (GCW), global work efficiency (GWE), and global work index (GWI) increased after Levosimendan infusion in 62.2%, 73.0%, and 70.3% of cases, with significant differences between patients with and without outcomes [delta GCW: −7.36 mmHg% (134.12) vs. 113.81 mmHg% (204.41), P = 0.007; delta GWE: −3.27% (8.38) vs. 4.30% (5.58), P = 0.002]. Delta value of GWE showed the largest area under curve (AUC: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.64–1.00, P = 0.002) for outcome prediction with a cut-off point of 0.5%. Independent prognostic value of GWE variation was confirmed in multivariable regression models (OR: 0.825, 95% CI: 0.702–0.970, P = 0.02).

Conclusions

GWE and GCW provided incremental and independent prognostic value at short-term follow-up over traditional echocardiographic parameters. The differentiation of patients into ‘workers’, whose GWE improved after Levosimendan infusion, and ‘non-workers’, who failed to improve their GWE, permitted to identify patients at higher risk of forthcoming cardiovascular events. Monitoring these patients with MWI may have relevant clinical implications.

196 Cardiovascular magnetic resonance characterization of myocardial injury in recovered COVID-19 patients with elevated troponins during hospital stay

Aims

Despite being a common finding in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, cardiac troponin elevation remains a nonspecific detection of myocardial injury and further in-hospital investigation into the cause of myocardial injury is rarely done. COVID-19 patients with myocardial injury show a significantly higher in-hospital mortality rate compared with those without myocardial injury and among those with myocardial injury, greater degrees of troponin elevation are associated with higher mortality rates. There are still many questions regarding possible cardiovascular sequelae and prognostic significance in these patients. Being able to distinguish between inflammatory and ischaemic causes of myocardial injury cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is the non-invasive modality of choice to investigate myocardial involvement in these patients. Presented are the preliminary single-centre results from a multicentre study aimed to characterize the prevalence, type and extent of COVID-19-related cardiovascular sequelae using CMR imaging.

Methods and results

In this single-centre prospective observational cohort study, patients hospitalized with confirmed COVID-19 and at least one value of high sensitivity I troponin (hs-Tnl) >99th percentile during hospitalization were eligible for follow-up contrast-enhanced CMR imaging. Patients with any standard CMR contraindications were excluded. Images were acquired using a standardized myocarditis protocol including late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and T1 and T2 mapping. Cutoff values of 1015 ms and 50 ms were used for abnormal T1 and T2 measurements, respectively. Of the 21 patients (65 ± 11.85 years) who underwent imaging, 15 (71.4%) were male. The mean follow-up duration from the date of confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis was 169 ± 19 days. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 64.1 ± 13.87 and 3 (14.3%) patients had evidence of wall motion abnormalities. LGE was seen in 9/20 (45.0%) patients, reflecting myocardial fibrosis. Increased native T1 signal representing myocardial fibrosis and/or oedema was seen in 9/20 (45.0%) patients. While increased native T2 signal, being more specific for oedema was observed in 3/20 (15.0%) patients. Considering CMR findings, 6 (28.6%) patients showed evidence of previous myocarditis.

Conclusions

In this single centre Italian study of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 and elevated cardiac enzymes, myocarditis-like injury was evident in about a quarter of the patients. Whether these findings will lead to long-term cardiac complications is still to be confirmed.

21 Direct oral anticoagulants vs. vitamin K antagonists in the treatment of left ventricular thrombosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Aims

Evidence about the use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) in patients with left ventricular thrombosis (LVT) are emerging. The aim of our study was to provide a comprehensive synthesis of the available evidence concerning the clinical effects of DOACs vs. vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in LVT treatment.

Methods

Systematic search of studies evaluating DOACs vs. VKAs use in patients with LVT was performed on 11 May 2021. Data were pooled by meta-analysis using a random-effects model. Odds ratios (OR) with relative 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used as measures of effect estimates. The primary efficacy and safety endpoint were ischaemic stroke and any bleeding, respectively. Secondary endpoints were LVT resolution, systemic embolism, major bleeding, haemorrhagic stroke, and all cause death.

Results

Twenty studies were included in the meta-analysis: 1391 patients were treated with DOACs and 1534 with VKAs. A significant reduction in the risk of ischaemic stroke [OR 0.67, 95% CI 0.45–0.98, P = 0.048, number needed to treat to benefit (NNTB) 22 (95% CI 15–43)] and any bleeding [OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.46–0.89, P = 0.009, NNTB 26 (95% CI 16–80)] was observed with DOACs compared to VKAs. No statistically significant difference was observed among the two treatment arms for the secondary endpoints.

Conclusion

Compared to VKAs, DOACs are associated with a reduced risk of ischaemic stroke and bleeding. In light of these findings, and the practical advantages of DOACs, additional large scale randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm the benefits of DOACs in patients with LVT.

548 Colchicine in patients with coronary artery disease: a meta-analysis of randomized trials

Aims

The aim of this study was to provide a systematic appraisal of the effects of colchicine treatment on cardiovascular outcomes, adverse events, and mortality in patients with coronary artery disease.

Methods and results

We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared add-on colchicine to standard treatment vs. standard treatment in patients with coronary artery disease. Mixed-effects Poisson regression model with random intervention effects was used to estimate the pooled incidence rate ratios (IRR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). The number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) or for an additional harmful outcome (NNTH) were calculated. Prespecified subgroup analyses according to colchicine dose (e.g. &lt;1 mg/daily or ≥ 1 mg/daily) and the type of clinical syndrome [e.g. acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or chronic coronary syndrome (CCS)] were performed. Ten RCTs were identified, including 12 819 participants with a median follow-up of 6 months. Add-on colchicine, compared to standard treatment, was associated with a lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (IRR: 0.69, 95% CI: 0.60–0.79, NNTB = 28), myocardial infarction (IRR: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.64–0.93, NNTB = 95), and ischaemic stroke (IRR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.30–0.76, NNTB = 155), while it was associated with a higher risk of gastrointestinal adverse events (IRR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.12–2.54, NNTH = 10). Colchicine use did not affect all-cause death (IRR: 1.09, 95% CI: 0.85–1.40), or cardiovascular death (IRR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.51–1.12), while it was associated with a higher risk of non-cardiovascular death (IRR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.04–2.02, NNTH = 396). In the subgroup analysis of colchicine dose, a significant interaction was found with the risk of gastrointestinal adverse events (IRR: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.91–1.15, in patients receiving colchicine &lt;1 mg/daily; IRR: 2.91, 95% CI: 1.91–4.44, in patients receiving colchicine ≥1 mg/daily, p for interaction &lt;0.0001), while there was no evidence for a modification of treatment effect for the remaining endpoints. In the subgroup analysis of the clinical syndrome, there was little evidence for an interaction with the risk of myocardial infarction (IRR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.71–1.18, in patients presenting with ACS; IRR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.50–0.84, in patients presenting with CCS, p for interaction = 0.07), while there was no evidence for a modification of treatment effect for the remaining endpoints.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis of RCT provides evidence for a significant clinical benefit of add-on colchicine in terms of risk reduction of cardiovascular events in patients with coronary artery disease, that largely outweigh a potential harmful effect of colchicine on the risk of non-cardiovascular death. Colchicine is associated with a higher risk of gastrointestinal adverse effects that can be prevented by using a low-dose regimen (e.g. &lt;1 mg daily).

397 Long-term follow-up after balloon expandable covered stents implantation for management of TAVI-related vascular access complications

Aims

Despite increasing experience and device innovation with transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), vascular complications are still a major problem and endovascular management is generally the first option. When stent implantation is required, self expandable (SE) stents are generally preferred over balloon expandable (BE) stents as they are more elastic and less compressible. However, BE stents support higher radial outward force, adhere to the vase lumen with greater precision and are less expensive. As no large registry reported data about stents BE alone in this setting, we report our experience with BE stents implantation to manage a vascular complication after TAVI. We believe that our work could be useful and possibly serves as a starting point for future research.

Methods and results

We retrospectively collected baseline, procedural and follow-up data about 78 patients who were implanted with a BE stent to manage a vascular complication after TAVI. At a median clinical follow-up of 410 days (IQR: 66–1016 days), no percutaneous or surgical interventions were reported after discharge. No cases of symptomatic leg-ischaemia were reported and only one patient was symptomatic for claudication. Doppler follow-up (available for 25 patients; 32%) showed no cases of stent fracture or displacement.

Conclusions

Our experience showed good acute and long-term results of BE covered stent implantation to manage a vascular complication after TAVI. It is possible that a greater radial outward force is a good choice in terms of hemostasis without necessarily being associated with stent deformation/fracture resulting in restenosis or further interventions. While present data may not be generalized, they may be useful to critically re-evaluate (and eventually reduce) the need of SE stents when treating femoral arteries bleedings.

Association Between Colchicine Treatment and Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background: The authors examined the association between colchicine treatment and clinical outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease. Methods: They performed a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving patients with coronary artery disease receiving addon colchicine to standard treatment compared with standard treatment. They used a mixed-effects Poisson regression model with random intervention effects to estimate the pooled incidence rate ratios (IRR) with 95% CI. Results: Ten RCTs were identified, including 12,819 participants followed up for a median of 6 months. Colchicine was associated with a lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (IRR 0.69; 95% CI [0.60-0.79]; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome [NNTB] = 28); MI (IRR 0.77; 95% CI [0.64-0.93]; NNTB = 95) and ischaemic stroke (IRR 0.48; 95% CI [0.30-0.76]; NNTB = 155) and with a higher risk of gastrointestinal adverse events (IRR 1.69; 95% CI [1.12-2.54]; number needed to treat for an additional harmful outcome [NNTH] = 10). Colchicine did not affect all-cause death (IRR 1.09; 95% CI [0.85-1.40]), or cardiovascular death (IRR 0.75; 95% CI [0.51-1.12]), while it was associated with a higher risk of non-cardiovascular death (IRR 1.45; 95% CI [1.04-2.02]; NNTH = 396). Conclusion: The meta-analysis showed that the relative and absolute beneficial treatment effects of colchicine on cardiovascular outcomes outweigh the potential harm for non-cardiovascular mortality. Registration: PROSPERO 2021 CRD42021248874.

Clinical effects of early sacubitril/valsartan administration in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

The combination of sacubitril, a neprilysin inhibitor and valsartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker, has been proven to be a game-changer in reducing morbidity and mortality in patients with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Recent evidence regarding the early use of sacubutril/valsartan in patients after ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) are emerging.

Purpose

To provide a comprehensive synthesis of effect estimates, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) directly comparing sacubitril/valsartan and an ACE-inhibitor early after successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) in patients presenting with STEMI

Methods

We searched the PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane databases from inception to March 28, 2021 to identify RCTs that report clinical outcomes and compare sacubitril/valsartan versus an ACE-inhibitor in patients presenting with STEMI after pPCI. The primary efficacy endpoint was the risk of hospitalization for heart failure. Secondary efficacy endpoints were major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF). Safety endpoints were hypotension, hyperkalemia, worsening renal function and angioedema. Pooled risk ratios (RR) and mean differences (MD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used as summary statistics for endpoints of interest and were calculated using a random-effects model according to DerSimonian and Laird.

Results

A total of three studies with 493 patients randomly allocated to sacubitril/valsartan (n=247) or ACE-inhibitor (n=246) were included for analysis. Main study and patient characteristics are reported in figure1. Heterogeneity between studies was low. Individual trial definitions of MACE and adverse events were used in the analysis (figure 1). Sacubitril/valsartan was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of heart failure hospitalizations (RR, 0.55; 95% CI 0.39–0.79, P&lt;0.01, event rate 15.4% vs 28.5%, number needed to treat 8), MACE (RR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.48–0.84, P&lt;0.01, event rate 20.2% vs 33.3%, number needed to treat 8), and with a significant improvement of LVEF (MD, 3.09; 95% CI, 1.70–4.49, P&lt;0.01), (figure 2). No significant difference was found between sacubitril/valsartan and ACE-inhibitors regarding the incidence of hypotension (RR, 1.42; 95% CI, 0.74–2.72, P=0.29), hyperkalemia (RR, 0.44; 95% CI 0.06–3.08, P=0.41) and worsening renal function (RR, 0.70; 95% CI 0.22–2.24, P=0.55), (figure2). No angioedema was observed in included studies.

Conclusion

This is the first systematic review and meta-analysis comparing sacubitril/valsartan and ACE inhibitors in STEMI patients. Based on the presented findings and larger data on the horizon, we may soon find sacubitril/valsartan to be an important addition to our arsenal in improving care to STEMI patients.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Italian Ministry of Education Figure 1Figure 2

Clinical Effects of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy or Aspirin Monotherapy after Acute Minor Ischemic Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack, a Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Evidence about the use of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and P2Y12 inhibitors in patients with acute minor ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) is emerging. The aim of our study was to provide an updated and comprehensive analysis about the risks and benefits of DAPT versus aspirin monotherapy in this setting.

METHODS

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ClinicalTrials.gov databases, main international conference proceedings were searched for randomized controlled trials comparing DAPT versus aspirin monotherapy in patients with acute ischemic stroke or TIA not eligible for thrombolysis or thrombectomy presenting in the first 24 hours after the acute event. Data were pooled by meta-analysis using a random-effects model. The primary efficacy endpoint was ischemic stroke recurrence, and the primary safety outcome was major bleeding. Secondary endpoints were intracranial hemorrhage, hemorrhagic stroke, and all-cause death.

RESULTS

A total of 4 studies enrolling 21,459 patients were included. DAPT with clopidogrel was used in 3 studies, DAPT with ticagrelor in one study. DAPT duration was 21 days in one study, 1 month in one study, and 3 months in the remaining studies. DAPT was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of ischemic stroke recurrence (relative risk [RR], 0.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.67-0.82, P<0.001, number needed to treat 50 [95% CI 40-72], while it was associated with a significantly higher risk of major bleeding (RR, 2.59; 95% CI 1.49-4.53, P=0.001, number needed to harm 330 [95% CI 149-1111]), of intracranial hemorrhage (RR 3.06, 95% CI 1.41-6.66, P=0.005), with a trend towards higher risk of hemorrhagic stroke (RR 1.83, 95% CI 0.83-4.05, P=0.14), and a slight tendency towards higher risk of all-cause death (RR 1.30, 95% CI 0.89-1.89, P=0.16).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with acute minor ischemic stroke or TIA, DAPT, as compared with aspirin monotherapy, might offer better effectiveness in terms of ischemic stroke recurrence at the expense of a higher risk of major bleeding. The trade-off between ischemic benefits and bleeding risks should be assessed in tailoring the therapeutic strategies.

A ruthenium derivative of quercetin with enhanced cholesterol-lowering activity

A ruthenium(ii)p-cymene derivative of quercetin was synthesized and functionally tested for cholesterol-lowering abilityviadirect 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGR) inhibition.