Differences in Treatment Patterns and Outcomes of Acute Myocardial Infarction for Low- and High-Income Patients in 6 Countries

Importance

Differences in the organization and financing of health systems may produce more or less equitable outcomes for advantaged vs disadvantaged populations. We compared treatments and outcomes of older high- and low-income patients across 6 countries.

Objective

To determine whether treatment patterns and outcomes for patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction differ for low- vs high-income individuals across 6 countries.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Serial cross-sectional cohort study of all adults aged 66 years or older hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction from 2013 through 2018 in the US, Canada, England, the Netherlands, Taiwan, and Israel using population-representative administrative data.

Exposures

Being in the top and bottom quintile of income within and across countries.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Thirty-day and 1-year mortality; secondary outcomes included rates of cardiac catheterization and revascularization, length of stay, and readmission rates.

Results

We studied 289 376 patients hospitalized with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and 843 046 hospitalized with non-STEMI (NSTEMI). Adjusted 30-day mortality generally was 1 to 3 percentage points lower for high-income patients. For instance, 30-day mortality among patients admitted with STEMI in the Netherlands was 10.2% for those with high income vs 13.1% for those with low income (difference, -2.8 percentage points [95% CI, -4.1 to -1.5]). One-year mortality differences for STEMI were even larger than 30-day mortality, with the highest difference in Israel (16.2% vs 25.3%; difference, -9.1 percentage points [95% CI, -16.7 to -1.6]). In all countries, rates of cardiac catheterization and percutaneous coronary intervention were higher among high- vs low-income populations, with absolute differences ranging from 1 to 6 percentage points (eg, 73.6% vs 67.4%; difference, 6.1 percentage points [95% CI, 1.2 to 11.0] for percutaneous intervention in England for STEMI). Rates of coronary artery bypass graft surgery for patients with STEMI in low- vs high-income strata were similar but for NSTEMI were generally 1 to 2 percentage points higher among high-income patients (eg, 12.5% vs 11.0% in the US; difference, 1.5 percentage points [95% CI, 1.3 to 1.8 ]). Thirty-day readmission rates generally also were 1 to 3 percentage points lower and hospital length of stay generally was 0.2 to 0.5 days shorter for high-income patients.

Conclusions and Relevance

High-income individuals had substantially better survival and were more likely to receive lifesaving revascularization and had shorter hospital lengths of stay and fewer readmissions across almost all countries. Our results suggest that income-based disparities were present even in countries with universal health insurance and robust social safety net systems.

Hospital Characteristics and Early Enrollment Trends in the American College of Cardiology Voluntary Public Reporting Program

IMPORTANCE

Limited data exist regarding the characteristics of hospitals that do and do not participate in voluntary public reporting programs.

OBJECTIVE

To describe hospital characteristics and trends associated with early participation in the American College of Cardiology (ACC) voluntary reporting program for cardiac catheterization-percutaneous coronary intervention (CathPCI) and implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) registries.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This cross-sectional study analyzed enrollment trends and characteristics of hospitals that did and did not participate in the ACC voluntary public reporting program. All hospitals reporting procedure data to the National Cardiovascular Data Registry (NCDR) CathPCI or ICD registries that were eligible for the public reporting program from July 2014 (ie, program launch date) to May 2017 were included. Stepwise logistic regression was used to identify hospital characteristics associated with voluntary participation. Enrollment trends were evaluated considering the date US News & World Report (USNWR) announced that it would credit participating hospitals. Data analysis was performed from March 2017 to January 2018.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Hospital characteristics and participation in the public reporting program.

RESULTS

By May 2017, 561 of 1747 eligible hospitals (32.1%) had opted to participate in the program. Enrollment increased from 240 to 376 hospitals (56.7%) 1 month after the USNWR announcement that program participation would be considered as a component of national hospital rankings. Compared with hospitals that did not enroll, program participants had increased median (IQR) procedural volumes for PCI (481 [280-764] procedures vs 332 [186-569] procedures; P < .001) and ICD (114 [56-220] procedures vs 62 [25-124] procedures; P < .001). Compared with nonparticipating hospitals, an increased mean (SD) proportion of participating hospitals adhered to composite discharge medications after PCI (0.96 [0.03] vs 0.92 [0.07]; P < .001) and ICD (0.88 [0.10] vs 0.81 [0.12]; P < .001). Hospital factors associated with enrollment included participation in 5 or more NCDR registries (odds ratio [OR],1.98; 95% CI, 1.24-3.19; P = .005), membership in a larger hospital system (ie, 3-20 hospitals vs ≤2 hospitals in the system: OR, 2.29; 95% CI, 1.65-3.17; P = .001), participation in an NCDR pilot public reporting program of PCI 30-day readmissions (OR, 2.93; 95% CI, 2.19-3.91; P < .001), university affiliation (vs government affiliation: OR, 3.85, 95% CI, 1.03-14.29; P = .045; vs private affiliation: OR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.35-3.57; P < .001), Midwest location (vs South: OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.06-2.08; P = .02), and increased comprehensive quality ranking (4 vs 1-2 performance stars in CathPCI: OR, 8.08; 95% CI, 5.07-12.87; P < .001; 4 vs 1 performance star in ICD: OR, 2.26; 95% CI, 1.48-3.44; P < .001) (C statistic = 0.829).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This study found that one-third of eligible hospitals participated in the ACC voluntary public reporting program and that enrollment increased after the announcement that program participation would be considered by USNWR for hospital rankings. Several hospital characteristics, experience with public reporting, and quality of care were associated with increased odds of participation.

Transcatheter Mitral Valve Therapy in the United States: A Report From the STS-ACC TVT Registry

Data for nearly all patients undergoing transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) and transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) with an approved device in the United States is captured in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons/American College of Cardiology Transcatheter Valve Therapy Registry. All data submitted for TEER or TMVR between 2014 and March 31, 2020, are reported. A total of 37,475 patients underwent a mitral transcatheter procedure, including 33,878 TEER and 3,597 TMVR. Annual procedure volumes for TEER have increased from 1,152 per year in 2014 to 10,460 per year in 2019 at 403 sites and for TMVR from 84 per year to 1,120 per year at 301 centers. Mortality rates have decreased for TEER at 30 days (5.6%-4.1%) and 1 year (27.4%-22.0%). Early off-label use data on TMVR in mitral valve-in-valve therapy led to approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2017, and the 2019 30-day mortality rate was 3.9%. Overall improvements in outcomes over the last 6 years are apparent. (STS/ACC TVT Registry Mitral Module; NCT02245763).

Cardiopulmonary function findings of pediatric patients with patent ductus arteriosus

Transcatheter occlusion and surgical ligation are the treatments of choice for most patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in children. Fifty-five children who had PDA completed a pulmonary function test and a symptom-limited treadmill exercise test from 2016 to 2018 at 1 medical center in southern Taiwan. The study group was divided into surgical ligation and catheterization groups, which were compared to a healthy control group matched for age, sex, and body mass index. Data about the performance on the exercise test, including metabolic equivalent at anaerobic threshold and peak, were analyzed. No differences in the pulmonary function and ventilatory parameters were observed between the surgery, catheterization, and control groups. Heart rate at peak and at anaerobic threshold significantly differed in the investigated groups. The post hoc analysis showed that the surgery group had a lower heart rate at peak and threshold compared to the catheterization and control groups (P = .02, P < .001, respectively). No significant difference was found between the catheterization group and the control group. A larger and younger group of patients were recruited, allowing for newer data about the cardiopulmonary function to be obtained. The findings suggest that patients with PDA could undergo physical training after intervention. The imposition of restrictions to limit sports activities should be avoided.

Comparison of Hospitalization Trends and Outcomes in Acute Myocardial Infarction Patients With Versus Without Opioid Use Disorder

Discrepancies in medical care are well known to adversely affect patients with opioid abuse disorders (OUD), including management and outcomes of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients with OUD. We used the National Inpatient Sample was queried from January 2006 to September 2015 to identify all patients ≥18 years admitted with a primary diagnosis of AMI (weighted N = 13,030; unweighted N = 2,670) and concomitant OUD. Patients using other nonopiate illicit drugs were excluded. Propensity matching (1:1) yielded 2,253 well-matched pairs in which intergroup comparison of invasive revascularization strategies and cardiac outcomes were performed. The prevalence of OUD patients with AMI over the last decade has doubled, from 163 (2006) to 326 cases (2015) per 100,000 admissions for AMI. The OUD group underwent less cardiac catheterization (63.2% vs 72.2%; p <0.001), percutaneous coronary intervention (37.0% vs 48.5%; p <0.001) and drug-eluting stent placement (32.3% vs 19.5%; p <0.001) compared with non-OUD. No differences in in-hospital mortality/cardiogenic shock were noted. Among subgroup of ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients (26.2% of overall cohort), the OUD patients were less likely to receive percutaneous coronary intervention (67.9% vs 75.5%; p = 0.002), drug-eluting stent (31.4% vs 47.9%; p <0.001) with a significantly higher mortality (7.4% vs 4.3%), and cardiogenic shock (11.7% vs 7.9%). No differences in the frequency of coronary bypass grafting were noted in AMI or its subgroups. In conclusion, OUD patients presenting with AMI receive less invasive treatment compared with those without OUD. OUD patients presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction have worse in-hospital outcomes with increased mortality and cardiogenic shock.

Comparison of Outcomes Among Patients With Cardiogenic Shock Admitted on Weekends Versus Weekdays

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is associated with high mortality and often requires involvement of a multidisciplinary provider team to deliver timely care. Care coordination is more difficult on weekends, which may lead to a delay in care. We sought to assess the effect of weekend admissions on outcomes in patients admitted with CS. Patients admitted with CS were identified from 2005 to 2014 in the National Inpatient Sample using ICD9 code 785.51. Baseline demographics, in-hospital procedures, and outcomes were obtained and compared by day of admission. A multivariable model was used to assess the impact of weekend admission on in-hospital mortality. A total of 875,054 CS admissions were identified (age 67.4 ± 15.1 years, 40.2% female, 72.1% Caucasian), with 23% of patients being admitted on weekends. Baseline co-morbidities were similar between groups. Weekend admissions were associated with higher in-hospital mortality (40.6% vs 37.5%) and cardiac arrest (20.3% vs 18.1%, p < 0.001 for both) consistently over the study period. Use of temporary and permanent mechanical support devices and heart transplantation were slightly less common for weekend admissions. In a multivariable model adjusting for relevant confounders, weekend admission was associated with a 10% increased mortality in patients with CS. In conclusion, patients with CS admitted on weekends had higher in-hospital mortality and were slightly less likely to receive mechanical support and advanced therapies compared with those admitted on weekdays. Future studies and health system initiatives should focus on rectifying these disparities with around-the-clock multidisciplinary coordinated care for CS.

Gender Issues in Italian Catheterization Laboratories: The Gender-CATH Study

Background Women represent an increasing percentage of interventional cardiologists in Italy compared with other countries. However, gaps exist in understanding and adapting to the impact of these changing demographics. Methods and Results We performed a national survey to analyze demographics, gender-based professional difference, needs in terms of catheterization laboratory (Cath-Lab) abstention, and radiation safety issues in Italian Cath-Lab settings. A survey supported by the Italian Society of Interventional Cardiology (Società Italiana di Cardiologia Interventistica-Gruppo Italiano di Studi Emodinamici SICI-GISE) was mailed to all SICI-GISE members. Categorical data were compared using the χ2 test. P<0.05 was considered significant. There were 326 respondents: 20.2% were <35 years old, and 64.4% had >10 years of Cath-Lab experience. Notably, 26.4% were women. Workload was not gender-influenced (women performed "on-call" duty 69.8% versus men 68.3%; P=0.97). Women were more frequently unmarried (22.1% women versus 8.7% men; P=0.002) and childless (43.9% versus 56.1%; P<0.001). Interestingly, 69.8% of women versus 44.6% of men (P<0.001) argued that pregnancy/breastfeeding negatively impacts professional skill development and career advancement. For Cath-Lab abstention, 38.9% and 69.6% of respondents considered it useful to perform percutaneous coronary intervention robotic simulations and "refresh-skill" sessions while they were absent or on return to work, respectively, without gender differences. Overall, 80% of respondents described current radioprotection counseling efforts as inadequate and not gender specific. Finally, 26.7% faced some type of job discrimination, a significantly higher proportion of whom were women. Conclusions Several gender-based differences exist or are perceived to exist among interventional cardiologists in Italian Cath-Labs. Joint strategies addressing Cath-Lab abstention and radiation exposure education should be developed to promote gender equity in interventional cardiologists.

A Survey-based Estimate of COVID-19 Incidence and Outcomes among Patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension or Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension and Impact on the Process of Care

Rationale: Patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) typically undergo frequent clinical evaluation. The incidence and outcomes of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and its impact on routine management for patients with pulmonary vascular disease is currently unknown.Objectives: To assess the cumulative incidence and outcomes of recognized COVID-19 for patients with PAH/CTEPH followed at accredited pulmonary hypertension centers, and to evaluate the pandemic's impact on clinic operations at these centers.Methods: A survey was e-mailed to program directors of centers accredited by the Pulmonary Hypertension Association. Descriptive analyses and linear regression were used to analyze results.Results: Seventy-seven center directors were successfully e-mailed a survey, and 58 responded (75%). The cumulative incidence of COVID-19 recognized in individuals with PAH/CTEPH was 2.9 cases per 1,000 patients, similar to the general U.S. population. In patients with PAH/CTEPH for whom COVID-19 was recognized, 30% were hospitalized and 12% died. These outcomes appear worse than the general population. A large impact on clinic operations was observed including fewer clinic visits and substantially increased use of telehealth. A majority of centers curtailed diagnostic testing and a minority limited new starts of medical therapy. Most centers did not use experimental therapies in patients with PAH/CTEPH diagnosed with COVID-19.Conclusions: The cumulative incidence of COVID-19 recognized in patients with PAH/CTEPH appears similar to the broader population, although outcomes may be worse. Although the total number of patients with PAH/CTEPH recognized to have COVID-19 was small, the impact of COVID-19 on broader clinic operations, testing, and treatment was substantial.

Non-Elective Pediatric Cardiac Catheterization During COVID-19 Pandemic: A New York Center Experience

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 has led to major changes in hospital systems across the world. In an effort to reduce viral transmission, conserve resources, and in accordance with institutional and state mandates, all elective procedures and surgeries were postponed during the initial outbreak. Guidelines for case selection are limited and management for pediatric catheterization laboratories during this crisis is unprecedented.

OBJECTIVES

To report the protocols and case selection of a high-volume pediatric cardiac catheterization laboratory in the epicenter of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

METHODS

All pediatric cardiac catheterization procedures from March 16, 2020 through May 10, 2020 were reviewed. Changes to case selection and periprocedural workflow are described. Data were collected on COVID-19 testing status and primary procedure type, and all procedures were classified by urgency.

RESULTS

There were 52 catheterizations performed on 50 patients. Endomyocardial biopsies were the most common procedure (n = 27; 52%). Interventional and diagnostic procedures represented 27% (n = 14) and 21% (n = 11) of cases, respectively. Two emergent procedures (3.8%) were performed on patients with positive COVID-19 testing. Most cases were performed on patients with negative COVID-19 testing (n = 33; 94%).

CONCLUSIONS

Adjusting to the COVID-19 pandemic in a high-volume pediatric cardiac catheterization laboratory can be safely and effectively managed by prioritizing emergent and urgent cases and modifying workflow operations. The experience of this center may assist other pediatric cardiac catheterization laboratories in adapting to similar practice changes as the pandemic continues to evolve.

Regional Variation in Procedural and Clinical Outcomes Among Patients With ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction With Cardiogenic Shock

There is limited data on regional differences in patient characteristics, practice patterns, and clinical outcomes in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) with cardiogenic shock (CS) in the United States (US). We aimed to identify variations in treatment methods and clinical outcomes in patients with STEMI CS between the 4 US regions. Using the National Inpatient Sample database, we identified adult patients admitted with STEMI associated with CS between 2006 and 2015 using ICD-9-DM codes. Based on the US regions (Northeast, Midwest, South, and West), we divided patients in 4 cohorts and compared baseline patient characteristics, clinical outcomes and procedural outcomes. A total of 186,316 patients with STEMI CS were included; 32,303 (17.3%) were hospitalized in the Northeast, 43,634 (23.4%) in the Midwest, 70,036 (37.8%) in the South, and 40,043 (21.5%) in the West. Although nonstatistically significant, the in-hospital mortality was higher in Northeast region (37.7%), followed by the South (36.6%), West (35.7%), and Midwest (35.2%). Rates of percutaneous coronary intervention were higher in the Midwest (68.5%) and lower in the Northeast (56%). The use of percutaneous ventricular assist device and ECMO was higher in the Northeast (3.3% and 2.2%) and lower in the West (2.1% and 0.4%). The median length of stay was similar among all 4 cohorts (6 days) but median hospital costs were higher in the West ($36, 614) and lower in the South ($28,795). In conclusion, there are significant geographic variations in practice patterns, healthcare cost, and in-hospital outcomes in patients with STEMI complicated by CS between 4 US regions.

Cardiac intervention rates for older patients with acute myocardial infarction in the United States and Ontario, 2003-2013: a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Previous work showed lower cardiac intervention rates for patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in Ontario than in the United States. We assessed whether Ontario's efforts to improve access to rapid percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for AMI were associated with improved timeliness of care and whether this closed the gap between the 2 jurisdictions.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, we followed adults aged 66-99 years in the US and Ontario for 30 days after admission for incident AMI between 2003 and 2013 using health administrative data from both countries. We calculated the proportion of patients who received cardiac catheterization, PCI and coronary artery bypass grafting on the day of and within 30 days of admission overall and according to AMI type (ST-segment elevation AMI [STEMI] v. non-STEMI) and risk group (low, medium or high predicted risk of 30-d mortality).

RESULTS

We followed 414 216 patients in the US and 112 484 in Ontario. The large disparities in cardiac intervention rates observed in 2003 mostly disappeared over time. By 2013, the proportion of patients who received same-day PCI was only slightly higher in the US than in Ontario (22.3% v. 19.2%), whereas the converse was true for 30-day PCI (44.0% v. 41.3%). In 2013, patients with STEMI in the US and Ontario received PCI at nearly identical rates on the day of admission (66.3% v. 63.8%); however, more patients at high risk with STEMI in the US than in Ontario received PCI, both on the day of admission (55.5% v. 44.7%) and by 30 days (60.5% v. 55.0%).

INTERPRETATION

Despite differences in resources and organization of delivery systems, by 2013, timely receipt of PCI by Ontario patients with AMI lagged only slightly behind that by US patients. A higher supply of PCI centres in the US may have facilitated earlier intervention among patients at high risk with STEMI.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Patients With Severe, Symptomatic Aortic Valve Stenosis at Intermediate Surgical Risk: A Health Technology Assessment

BACKGROUND

Surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) is the conventional treatment in patients at low or intermediate surgical risk. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a less invasive procedure, originally developed as an alternative for patients at high or prohibitive surgical risk.

METHODS

We conducted a health technology assessment of TAVI versus SAVR in patients with severe, symptomatic aortic valve stenosis at intermediate surgical risk, which included an evaluation of effectiveness, safety, cost-effectiveness, budget impact, and patient preferences and values. We performed a literature search to retrieve systematic reviews and selected one that was relevant to our research question. We complemented the systematic review with a literature search to identify randomized controlled trials published after the review. Applicable, previously published cost-effectiveness analyses were available, so we did not conduct a primary economic evaluation. We analyzed the net budget impact of publicly funding TAVI in people at intermediate surgical risk in Ontario. To contextualize the potential value of TAVI for people at intermediate surgical risk, we spoke with people who had aortic valve stenosis and their families.

RESULTS

We identified two randomized controlled trials; they found that in patients with severe, symptomatic aortic valve stenosis, TAVI was noninferior to SAVR with respect to the composite endpoint of all-cause mortality or disabling stroke within 2 years of follow-up (GRADE: High). However, compared with SAVR, TAVI had a higher risk of some complications and a lower risk of others. Device-related costs for TAVI (approximately $23,000) are much higher than for SAVR (approximately $6,000). Based on two published cost-effectiveness analyses conducted from the perspective of the Ontario Ministry of Health, TAVI was more expensive and, on average, more effective (i.e., it produced more quality-adjusted life-years) than SAVR. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratios showed that TAVI may be cost-effective, but the probability of TAVI being cost-effective versus SAVR was less than 60% at a willingness-to-pay value of $100,000 per quality-adjusted life-year. The net budget impact of publicly funding TAVI in Ontario would be about $2 million to $3 million each year for the next 5 years. This cost may be reduced if people receiving TAVI have a shorter hospital stay (≤ 3 days). We interviewed 13 people who had lived experience with aortic valve stenosis. People who had undergone TAVI reported reduced physical and psychological effects and a shorter recovery time. Patients and caregivers living in remote or northern regions reported lower out-of-pocket costs with TAVI because the length of hospital stay was reduced. People said that TAVI increased their quality of life in the short-term immediately after the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

In people with severe, symptomatic aortic valve stenosis at intermediate surgical risk, TAVI was similar to SAVR with respect to the composite endpoint of all-cause mortality or disabling stroke. However, the two treatments had different patterns of complications. The study authors also noted that longer follow-up is needed to assess the durability of the TAVI valve. Compared with SAVR, TAVI may provide good value for money, but publicly funding TAVI in Ontario would result in additional costs over the next 5 years. People with aortic valve stenosis who had undergone TAVI appreciated its less invasive nature and reported a substantial reduction in physical and psychological effects after the procedure, improving their quality of life.

Trends in High- and Low-Value Cardiovascular Diagnostic Testing in Fee-for-Service Medicare, 2000-2016

IMPORTANCE

Owing to a rapid increase in rates of diagnostic cardiovascular testing in the 1990s and early 2000s, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services implemented a series of payment changes intended to reduce overall spending on fee-for-service testing. Whether guideline-concordant testing has been subsequently affected is unknown to date.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether changes in overall rates of use of diagnostic cardiovascular tests were associated with changes in high-value testing recommended by guidelines and low-value testing that is expected to provide minimal benefits.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This retrospective cohort study assessed a national 5% random sample of Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries aged 65 to 95 years from January 1, 1999, through December 31, 2016. Data were analyzed from February 15, 2018, through August 15, 2019.

EXPOSURES

Eligibility to receive high-value testing (assessment of left ventricular systolic function among patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction or heart failure) and low-value testing (stress testing before low-risk noncardiac surgery and routine stress testing within 2 years of coronary revascularization not associated with acute care visits).

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Age- and sex-adjusted annual rates of overall, high-value, and low-value diagnostic cardiovascular testing.

RESULTS

Mean (SD) age was similar over time (75.57 [7.32] years in 2000-2003; 74.82 [7.79] years in 2012-2016); the proportion of women slightly declined over time (63.23% in 2000 to 2003; 57.27% in 2012 to 2016). The rate of overall diagnostic cardiovascular testing per 1000 patient-years among the 5% sample of Medicare beneficiaries increased from 275 in 2000 to 359 in 2008 (P < .001) and then declined to 316 in 2016 (P < .001). High-value testing increased steadily over the entire study period for patients with acute myocardial infarction (85.7% to 89.5%; P < .001) and heart failure (72.6% to 80.1%; P < .001). Low-value testing among patients undergoing low-risk surgery increased from 2.4% in 2000 to 3.8% in 2008 (P < .001) but then declined to 2.5% in 2016 (P < .001). Low-value testing within 2 years of coronary revascularization slightly increased from 47.4% in 2000 to 49.2% in 2003 (P = .03) but then declined to 30.8% in 2014 (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Rates of overall and low-value diagnostic cardiovascular testing appear to have declined considerably and rates of high-value testing have increased slightly. Payment changes intended to reduce spending on overall testing may not have adversely affected testing recommended by guidelines.

Assessment of intracardiac and extracardiac anomalies associated with coarctation of aorta and interrupted aortic arch using dual-source computed tomography

To evaluate the value of dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) compared with transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in assessing intracardiac and extracardiac anomalies in patients with coarctation of aorta (CoA) and interrupted aortic arch (IAA). Seventy-five patients (63 with CoA and 12 with IAA) who received preoperative DSCT and TTE were retrospectively studied. Intracardiac and extracardiac anomalies were recorded and compared by DSCT and TTE, in reference to surgical or cardiac catheterization findings. A total of 155 associated anomalies were finally found. Collateral circulation (56, 74.70%), patent ductus arteriosus (PDA; 41, 54.67%) were the most common anomalies. PDA, aortopulmonary window, and collateral circulation were more frequently present in patients with IAA than those with CoA (100% vs. 46.03%, 16.67% vs. 0%, and 100% vs. 69.84%, respectively, all p < 0.05). DSCT was superior to TTE in assessing associated extracardiac-vascular anomalies (sensitivity: 100% vs. 39.81%; specificity: 100% vs. 100%; positive predictive value: 100% vs. 100%; negative predictive value: 100% vs. 76.06%). Extracardiac-vascular anomalies, including collateral circulation and PDA, were the most common anomalies in patients with IAA and CoA. Compared with TTE, DSCT is more reliable in providing an overall preoperative evaluation of morphological features and extracardiac anomalies for surgical planning.

Characteristics of the Quality Improvement Content of Cardiac Catheterization Peer Reviews in the Veterans Affairs Clinical Assessment, Reporting, and Tracking Program

IMPORTANCE

Peer review is recommended for quality assessment in all cardiac catheterization programs, but, to our knowledge, the content of peer reviews and the potential for quality improvement has not been described.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize the quality improvement content of cardiac catheterization peer reviews.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This quality improvement study used retrospective case review of diagnostic angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention procedures to characterize the major adverse event review process of the US Department of Veterans Affairs Clinical Assessment, Reporting, and Tracking (CART) program from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2016. Data review and analysis took place from November 2017 to August 2018.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Percentage of peer reviews reporting substandard care and opportunities for quality improvement.

RESULTS

A total of 196 643 diagnostic coronary angiograms and 62 576 percutaneous coronary interventions were performed in the Department of Veterans Affairs. Of these, 168 (0.1%) were triggered for review because of a self-reported major adverse event during the procedure. Of 152 cases with complete peer review data, care was adjudicated as not meeting the standard of care in 25 cases (16.4%). Concerns about operator judgment were identified in 46 cases (30.3%), about case selection in 26 (17.1%), about trainee supervision in 21 (13.8%), and about technical performance in 46 (30.3%). Reviewers made recommendations to improve operator performance in 63 cases (41.4%) and catheterization laboratory or hospital processes in 58 (38.2%).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

While substandard care is infrequently identified in peer review of catheterization laboratory complications in the Department of Veterans Affairs, the process often generates recommendations for quality improvement. Peer review programs should focus on identifying quality improvement opportunities and providing meaningful feedback to operators.

Upper-Extremity Venous Access for Children and Adults in Pediatric Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory

BACKGROUND

Traditional approaches to pediatric cardiac catheterization have relied on femoral venous access. Upper- extremity venous access may enable cardiac catheterization procedures to be performed safely for diagnostic and interventional catheterizations. The objective of this multicenter study was to demonstrate the feasibility and safety of upper-extremity venous access in a pediatric cardiac catheterization laboratory.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent cardiac catheterization via upper-extremity vascular access was performed.

RESULTS

Eighty-two cardiac catheterizations were attempted via upper-extremity vein on 72 patients. Successful access was obtained in 75 catheterizations (91%) in 67 patients. Median age at catheterization was 18.79 years (interquartile range [IQR], 13.02-32.75 years; n = 75) with a median weight of 59.4 kg (IQR, 43.3-76.5 kg; n = 75). The youngest patient was 4.1 months old, weighing 4.3 kg. Local anesthesia or light sedation was utilized in 46 procedures (61%). Diagnostic right heart catheterization was the most common procedure (n = 65; 87%), with intervention performed via the upper extremity in 8 cases (11%). Median fluoroscopy time was 10.02 min (IQR, 2.87-36.26 min; n = 75), with dose area product/kg of 3.765 μGy•m²/kg (IQR, 0.74-34.12 μGy•m²/kg; n = 64). Median sheath duration time was 48 min (IQR, 19.5-147 min; n = 57) and median total procedure time was 116 min (IQR, 80.5-299 min; n = 65). Median length of stay for outpatient procedures was 5.37 hr (IQR, 4.25-6.92 hr; n = 27). There were no procedural complications.

CONCLUSION

Upper-extremity venous access is a useful, feasible, and safe modality for cardiac catheterization in the pediatric cardiac catheterization laboratory.

Association of long-term PM2.5 exposure with traditional and novel lipid measures related to cardiovascular disease risk

BACKGROUND

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) exposure is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, particularly for cardiovascular disease. The association between long-term exposure to PM_2.5 and measures of lipoprotein subfractions remains unclear. Therefore, we examined associations between long-term PM_2.5 exposure and traditional and novel lipoprotein measures in a cardiac catheterization cohort in North Carolina.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 6587 patients who had visited Duke University for a cardiac catheterization between 2001 and 2010 and resided in North Carolina. We used estimates of daily PM_2.5 concentrations on a 1 km-grid based on satellite measurements. PM_2.5 predictions were matched to the address of each patient and averaged for the year prior to catheterization date. Serum lipids included HDL, LDL, and triglyceride-rich particle, and apolipoprotein B concentrations (HDL-P, LDL-P, TRL-P, and apoB, respectively). Linear and quantile regression models were used to estimate change in lipoprotein levels with each μg/m³ increase in annual average PM_2.5. Models were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, history of smoking, area-level education, urban/rural status, body mass index, and diabetes.

RESULTS

For a 1-μg/m³ increment in PM_2.5 exposure, we observed increases in total and small LDL-P, LDL-C, TRL-P, apoB, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. The percent change from the mean outcome level was 2.00% (95% CI: 1.38%, 2.64%) for total LDL-P and 2.25% (95% CI: 1.43%, 3.06%) for small LDL-P.

CONCLUSION

Among this sample of cardiac catheterization patients residing in North Carolina, long-term PM_2.5 exposure was associated with increases in several lipoprotein concentrations. This abstract does not necessarily reflect U.S. EPA policy.

Development of a Catheterization and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Registry with a Data Management Approach: A Systematic Review

Coronary catheterization is the gold standard for diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular conditions. The development of a catheterization and percutaneous coronary intervention (CathPCI) registry considering key steps of data management has a pivotal role in coronary catheterization because it could help improve CathPCI approaches, develop equipment and devices, and minimize complications of the CathPCI procedure. Data management comprises data gathering, data processing, and information distribution. Data gathering involves the collection of data elements, including demographics, episode of care, history and relevant risk factors, visits to the catheterization laboratory, diagnosis of cardiac catheterization, estimation of the coronary arterial anatomy, percutaneous coronary intervention procedures, lesions, devices, outcomes, and discharge. Data processing is performed with respect to the number of procedures performed in different circumstances, the outcomes of the performed procedures, improvement in the healthcare approach, development of devices and equipment, and the quality of the performed procedures. Information distribution involves the sharing of information and making information accessible to researchers and clinicians, relevant health care managers, and manufacturers of medical devices and equipment. This study reviewed relevant English-language publications regarding cardiac catheterization registries, data collection, data processing, and information distribution, regardless of the date of publication.

Real-world comparison of in-hospital Reveal LINQ insertable cardiac monitor insertion inside and outside of the cardiac catheterization or electrophysiology laboratory

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, insertable cardiac monitor (ICM) procedures have been performed in the cardiac catheterization (CATH) or electrophysiology (EP) laboratory. The introduction of the miniaturized Reveal LINQ ICM has led to simplified and less invasive procedures, affording hospitals flexibility in planning where these procedures occur without compromising patient safety or outcomes.

METHODS

The present analysis of the ongoing, prospective, observational, multicenter Reveal LINQ Registry sought to provide real-world feasibility and safety data regarding the ICM procedure performed in the CATH/EP lab or operating room and to compare it with insertions performed outside of these traditional hospital settings. Patients included had at least a 30-day period after the procedure to account for any adverse events.

RESULTS

We analyzed 1222 patients (58.1% male, age 61.0 ± 17.1 years) enrolled at 18 centers in the US, 17 centers in Middle East/Asia, and 15 centers in Europe. Patients were categorized into 2 cohorts according to the location of the procedure: in-lab (CATH lab, EP lab, or operating room) (n = 820, 67.1%) and out-of-lab (n = 402, 32.9%). Several differences were observed regarding baseline and procedure characteristics. However, no significant differences in the occurrence of procedure-related adverse events (AEs) were found; of 19 ICM/procedure-related AEs reported in 17 patients (1.4%), 11 occurred in the in-lab group (1.3%) and 6 in the out-of-lab group (1.5%) (P = .80).

CONCLUSIONS

This real-world analysis demonstrates the feasibility of performing Reveal LINQ ICM insertion procedures outside of the traditional hospital settings without increasing the risk of infection or other adverse events.

Determination of the Frequency of Right and Left Internal Mammary Artery Embolization in Single Ventricle Patients: A Two-Center Study

Embolization of systemic to pulmonary artery collaterals to regulate pulmonary arterial flow or pressure of the cavopulmonary circulation in patients with single ventricle is a common practice. The relative incidence and impact of this practice on future interventions like coronary artery bypass grafting is poorly understood. This study aims to evaluate the frequency and implications of internal mammary artery (IMA) embolization in the single ventricle (SV) population. A retrospective chart review was performed of SV patients who underwent cardiac catheterization before and after Fontan procedure between February 2007 and 2017. Data were collected from two tertiary care centers in the Midwest. Of the 304 SV patients, 62 (20.4%) underwent embolization of one or more IMAs, whereas 242 (79.6%) did not. The rate of embolization of IMA was 40.5% in one center and 14.5% in the second center. Among patients who received IMA embolization, left internal mammary artery (LIMA) embolization was seen in 6 (9.7%) patients. Majority of patients underwent either right internal mammary artery (RIMA) embolization (n = 25; 40.3%) or RIMA and LIMA embolization (n = 27; 43.5%). IMA embolization in SV patients is common. Embolizing IMAs early in life will likely eliminate a valuable graft option for coronary artery bypass grafting should it be required in the future care of these patients. Multi-center, prospective, nation-wide studies are warranted to examine coronary artery disease in the SV population and true frequency of IMA embolization. Delineation of which IMAs were embolized is a necessary in surgical and cardiac intervention national data, such as Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) database. All measures should be taken to preserve IMAs patency, if deemed feasible and safe.

Sex, race, and insurance status differences in hospital treatment and outcomes following out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

BACKGROUND

Sex, race, and insurance status are associated with treatment and outcomes in several cardiovascular diseases. These disparities, however, have not been well-studied in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA).

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to evaluate the association of patient sex, race, and insurance status with hospital treatments and outcomes following OHCA.

METHODS

We studied adult patients in the 2011-2015 California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD) Patient Discharge Database with a "present on admission" diagnosis of cardiac arrest (ICD-9-CM 427.5). Insurance status was classified as private, Medicare, and Medi-Cal/government/self-pay. Our primary outcome was good neurologic recovery at hospital discharge, which was determined by discharge disposition. Secondary outcomes were survival to hospital discharge, treatment at a 24/7 percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) center, "do not resuscitate" orders within 24 h of admission, and cardiac catheterization during hospitalization. Data were analyzed with hierarchical multiple logistic regression models.

RESULTS

We studied 38,163 patients in the OSHPD database. Female sex, non-white race, and Medicare insurance status were independently associated with worse neurologic recovery [OR 0.94 (0.89-0.98), 0.93 (0.88-0.98), and 0.85 (0.79-0.91), respectively], lower rates of treatment at a 24/7 PCI center [OR 0.89 (0.85-0.93), 0.88 (0.85-0.93), and 0.87 (0.82-0.94), respectively], and lower rates of cardiac catheterization [OR 0.61 (0.57-0.65), 0.90 (0.84-0.97), and 0.44 (0.40-0.48), respectively]. Female sex, white race, and Medicare insurance were associated with DNR orders within 24 h of admission [OR 1.16 (1.10-1.23), 1.14 (1.07-1.21), and 1.25 (1.15-1.36), respectively].

CONCLUSIONS

Sex, race, and insurance status were independently associated with post-arrest care interventions, patient outcomes and treatment at a 24/7 PCI center. More studies are needed to fully understand the causes and implications of these disparities.

Lower likelihood of cardiac procedures after acute coronary syndrome in patients with human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is an increasing cause of morbidity and mortality in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected adults; however, this population may be less likely to receive interventions during hospitalization for acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The degree to which this disparity can be attributed to poorly controlled HIV infection is unknown.In this large cohort study, we used the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) to compare rates of cardiac procedures among patients with asymptomatic HIV-infection, symptomatic acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), and uninfected adults hospitalized with ACS from 2009 to 2012. Multivariable analysis was used to compare procedure rates by HIV status, with appropriate weighting to account for NIS sampling design including stratification and hospital clustering.The dataset included 1,091,759 ACS hospitalizations, 0.35% of which (n = 3783) were in HIV-infected patients. Patients with symptomatic AIDS, asymptomatic HIV, and uninfected patients differed by sex, race, and income status. Overall rates of cardiac catheterization and revascularization were 53.3% and 37.4%, respectively. In multivariable regression, we found that relative to uninfected patients, those with symptomatic AIDS were less likely to undergo catheterization (odds ratio [OR] 0.48, confidence interval [CI] 0.43-0.55), percutaneous coronary intervention (OR 0.69, CI 0.59-0.79), and coronary artery bypass grafting (0.75, CI 0.61-0.93). No difference was seen for those with asymptomatic HIV relative to uninfected patients (OR 0.93, CI 0.81-1.07; OR 1.06, CI 0.93-1.21; OR 0.88, CI 0.72-1.06, respectively).We found that lower rates of cardiovascular procedures in HIV-infected patients were primarily driven by less frequent procedures in those with AIDS.

Factors associated with advanced cardiac care in prehospital chest pain patients

INTRODUCTION

Many patients transported by emergency medical services (EMS) may require advanced cardiac care but do not have ST-segment elevation (STEMI) on the initial prehospital EKG. We sought to identify factors associated with the need for advanced cardiac care in undifferentiated EMS patients reporting chest pain in the absence of STEMI on EKG.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of all adult patients, reporting atraumatic chest pain from a single EMS agency, presenting to a single, urban hospital over a 10-year period. Patients with STEMI on prehospital electrocardiogram were excluded. Patient demographics, chest pain characteristics and prehospital factors were abstracted for all patients. We identified those patients that required advanced cardiac care and performed regression analysis to determine associated factors.

RESULTS

A total of 956 charts were analyzed. Of this total, 193 patients (20.2%) met the primary composite outcome. Of the outcome group, 185 patients (95.9%) had coronary artery disease documented on cardiac catheterization, 22 patients (11.4%) underwent CABG, and seven patients (3.6%) died in the hospital. Most significant variables (multivariable IRR) included age (1.02), male gender (1.65), history of MI (1.47), PCI (1.66), hyperlipidemia (1.40), diaphoresis (1.51), home aspirin (1.53), and improvement with EMS treatment (1.60).

CONCLUSION

We have identified several factors that could be considered when risk stratifying prehospital patients reporting chest pain. While potentially predictive, the factors are broad and support the need for other objective factors that could augment prediction of patients who may benefit from early advanced cardiac care.

Study protocol for a matter of heart: a qualitative study of patient factors driving overuse of cardiac catheterisation

INTRODUCTION

Overuse of cardiac catheterisation (CC) for stable coronary artery disease (CAD) is documented in Germany and other regions, although percutaneous coronary interventions do not provide a benefit over medical therapy for stable patients. Various studies investigated health system, physician and patient factors driving non-adherence to guidelines which recommend a stepwise approach with invasive procedures only in case of signs of ischaemia in non-invasive testing. In a larger-scale project, we aim to better understand the patients' perspective in order to develop an intervention that enhances patient's acceptance of this stepwise diagnostic approach for stable CAD. As a first step, this qualitative study aims to identify patient factors that prevent and promote the described overuse.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The exploratory qualitative interview study will include about 20 patients with stable CAD and a history of acute coronary syndrome from two German teaching practices. Narrative, structured interviews designed to last 30 to 90 min will be conducted. The interviews will be analysed using qualitative content analysis by Mayring. The analysis will address the following questions: (1) What are reasons for stable patients to undergo CC? (2) How do patients deal with their heart disease (secondary prevention)? (3) Which processes do patients describe regarding decision-making for non-invasive and invasive coronary procedures? (4) What information needs exist on behalf of patients to better understand the stepwise diagnostic approach outlined in guidelines and thereby avoid low-appropriate CCs? Based on these data, empirical typification will be conducted.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval for the study was obtained. All participants will provide written informed consent. Data will be pseudonymised for analysis. The findings will contribute to the development of an appropriate intervention. Results will be disseminated by conference presentations and journal publications.

Effect of part-time cardiac catheterization facilities in patients with acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Although the easy availability of invasive cardiac care facilities is associated with an increase in their use, their influence on outcomes is not clear. We sought to investigate whether a newly available cardiac catheterization laboratory (CCL) performing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) on a part-time (PT) basis might improve outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

METHODS

This was an observational cohort study that included all consecutive patients with AMI admitted to a secondary-level hospital in Spain before and after the PT-CCL opened in January 2006: during 1998-2005 and 2006-2014, respectively. All-cause in-hospital and long-term mortality were the co-primary endpoints. In-hospital complications and length of stay were secondary endpoints. For the analyses, patients were stratified according to propensity-score (PS) quintiles.

RESULTS

A total of 5339 patients were recruited, and 50.3% were managed after the opening of the PT-CCL. The PT-CCL was associated with greater use of PCI (81.2 vs. 32.5%, p<0.001) and guidelines-recommended medication (all p<0.001), lower risk of recurrent angina (PS-adjusted RR=0.160, 95% CI 0.115-0.222) and shorter length of hospital stay (PS-adjusted RR for length of stay <8days=0.357, 95% CI 0.301-0.422). In patients with NSTEMI, PT-CCL was associated with improved long-term survival (PS-adjusted HR=0.764, 95% CI 0.602-0.970).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with AMI, a new PT-CCL was associated with greater use of PCI and guideline-recommended medication, lower risk of recurrent angina and shorter length of hospital stay. In a subset of patients with NSTEMI, PT-CCL was associated with improved long-term survival.

A systematic diagnostic and therapeutic approach for the treatment of patients after cardio-pulmonary resuscitation: a prospective evaluation of 212 patients over 5 years

A literature on systematic treatment protocols for patients after resuscitation for cardiac arrest is lacking. We evaluated a systematic protocol, including ECG, echocardiogram, urgent cardiac catheterisation ("STEMI-like" workflow), CT scans, laboratory findings, IABP, hypothermia, and cMRI, prospectively over 5 years. The primary endpoint was the Cerebral Performance Category Scale (CPCS). During the period from January 2008 to December 2012, 212 patients were included. The mean age was 66.7 years, n = 151 (71.2 %) were male, mean time from the first medical contact to start of catheterisation was 76.6 min, and ventricular fibrillation (VF) was present in n = 99 (46.7 %). A significant coronary artery stenosis was seen in n = 130 (61.3 %), PCI was performed in n = 101 (47.6 %), an ACS was found in n = 100 (47.2 %), n = 91 patients (42.9 %) had another cardiac cause, an extra-cardiac cause was found in n = 12 (5.7 %, mostly a cerebral process), and in 9 patients (4.3 %), no cause was identifiable. A significant difference in mortality was found for patients with TIMI flow 2/3 vs. 0/1 (65.4 vs. 95.7 %, p < 0.01). The difference of intra-aortic balloon pumping vs. no pumping was not significant, performing hypothermia reduced mortality significantly (52.7 vs. 68.2 %, p = 0.04). The survival rate was n = 76 (35.9 %), a CPCS of 1/2 was reached in n = 68 pts (32.1 %), patients with ongoing resuscitation had a 100 % mortality (n = 41), and VF had a lower mortality (54.6 vs. 72.6 %, p < 0.01). A systematic algorithm may improve the outcome of patients after reanimation compared with classically reported outcomes. The data are hypothesis generating for further studies.

Comparison of the Effectiveness of Stress Echocardiography Versus Myocardial Perfusion Imaging in Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department With Low-Risk Chest Pain

The aim of this study was to compare clinically relevant cardiovascular outcomes and downstream resource utilization associated with stress echocardiography (SE) and myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) in emergency department patients with low-risk chest pain. This was a retrospective analysis of health insurance claims data for a national sample of privately insured patients over the period January 1 to December 31, 2011. Subjects were selected who presented to the emergency department with a primary or secondary diagnosis of chest pain and underwent either SE or MPI. The primary end points were the percentage of patients in each group who underwent downstream cardiac catheterization, revascularization, repeat noninvasive testing, return emergency department visit with chest pain, and hospitalization for myocardial infarction. The mean length of follow-up was 190 days in both groups. Overall, 48,202 patients or 24,101 propensity-matched pairs were included in the final analysis. Compared with SE, MPI was associated with significantly higher odds of subsequent cardiac catheterization (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.15; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.99 to 2.33) and revascularization procedures (AOR 1.58; 95% CI 1.36 to 1.85) and repeat emergency department visits (AOR 1.14; 95% CI 1.11 to 1.19). The odds of repeat testing and myocardial infarction did not differ between groups. The average cost of downstream care was significantly higher in the MPI group ($2,193.80 vs $1,631.10, p <0.0001). According to the a priori rules specified for this comparative analysis, SE is more effective than MPI for privately insured patients who present to the emergency department with chest pain. In conclusion, these findings demonstrate the importance of assessing diagnostic tests based on how they affect hard end points because identification of disease, in and of itself, may not confer any clinical advantage.

Real-world use of fractional flow reserve in Germany: results of the prospective ALKK coronary angiography and PCI registry

BACKGROUND

There is growing evidence for beneficial prognostic and economic effects of FFR-guided treatment of stable coronary artery disease. We sought to evaluate the real-world use of FFR measurements in patients undergoing elective coronary angiography.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We analyzed the data of the prospective ALKK coronary angiography and PCI registry including data of 38 hospitals from January 2010 to December 2013. A total of 100,977 patients undergoing coronary angiography were included. In 3240 patients (3.2 %) intracoronary pressure measurement was performed. There was a wide range of use of FFR measurement in the different analyzed ALKK hospitals from 0.1 to 8.8 % in elective patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease (median 2.7 %, quartiles 0.9 and 5.3 %), with a successive increase of use over time during the study period. Overall, it was performed in 3.2 % of coronary angiographies. Use in patients with three-vessel disease (2.5 %) and recommendation for bypass surgery (1.6 %) was less frequent. In procedures without PCI, dose area product was higher in the FFR group (2641 cGy × cm² vs. 2368 cGy × cm², p < 0.001), while it was lower in procedures with ad hoc PCI (4676 cGy × cm² vs. 5143 cGy × cm², p < 0.001). The performing center turned out to be the strongest predictor.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of FFR measurement was very heterogeneous between different hospitals and in general relatively low, in particular in patients with multivessel disease or recommendation for bypass surgery, but there was a positive trend during the study period. Technically, FFR measurement was not associated with an increased periprocedural complication rate.

Baseline Characteristics and Risk Factors of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients

Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) has started a single-center right heart catheterization (RHC)-based pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) study in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) since 2006. The baseline characteristics of these patients were described and the risk factor for PAH in lupus was identified.The demographic, clinical, laboratory, and treatment characteristics of SLE patients with PAH when they were registered were collected as the baseline data. A case-control study was conducted by taking the admitted SLE-non-PAH patients adjusted for age and gender in a 4:1 ratio during the same period as the controls. The associated variables were examined by binary multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify possible risk factors. A total of 111 RHC-confirmed SLE-PAH patients were enrolled, with the onset age of 34.6 ± 8.6 years old and the average SLE duration of 5 years. RHC revealed mPAP as 46.4 ± 11.4 mm Hg, CI as 2.7 ± 0.8 L/min × m, and PVR as 10.5 ± 4.8 WU. 46% of patients were WHO Fc I-II. All patients were treated with immunosuppressive agents and 65% patients had PAH-targeted therapy. The case-control study had confirmed 2 independent risk factors previously published: pericardial effusion (OR = 21.290, P < 0.001) and anti-RNP antibody (OR = 12.399, P < 0.001). Meanwhile, 6 independent variables were discovered: baseline SLE duration (OR = 1.118, P = 0.007), interstitial lung disease (OR = 17.027, P < 0.001=, without acute rash (OR = 3.258, P = 0.019), anti-SSA antibody (OR = 4.836, P = 0.004), SLEDAI≤9 (OR = 26.426, P < 0.001), ESR≤20 mm/h (OR = 12.068, P < 0.001), and uric acid > 357 μmol/L (OR = 9.666, P < 0.001) to be associated with PAH in SLE patients.The PUMCH study has shown that SLE patients complicated with PAH are usually earlier diagnosed and have less disease severity than patients without PAH. The immunosuppressive therapy rate and the PAH target therapy rate were high, which is consistent with reports from Western countries. This study has confirmed that pericardial effusion and positive anti-RNP antibody are risk factors for SLE-associated PAH. Long SLE disease duration, the presence of interstitial lung disease, without acute skin rash, positive anti-SSA antibody, low SLEDAI and ESR, and high uric acid levels are also associated with PAH in SLE patients.

Incidence and characteristics of inappropriate and false-positive cardiac catheterization laboratory activations in a regional primary percutaneous coronary intervention program

BACKGROUND

The implementation of regional primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) programs has been critical in achieving timely intervention in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, 1 consequence has been inappropriate and false-positive cardiac catheterization laboratory (CCL) activations where either angiography is cancelled or no culprit lesion is found, respectively.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of 1,391 patients referred for primary PCI to a single academic center from November 2007 to August 2013. Our purpose was to determine the incidence and characteristics of inappropriate and false-positive CCL activations by emergency departments (EDs) or emergency medical services (EMS), and the effect of a quality improvement (QI) initiative to reduce such events implemented during this period.

RESULTS

During the study period, there were 37 (2.7%) inappropriate and 206 (14.8%) false-positive CCL activations. There was no difference between the ED and EMS rates of inappropriate activation (2.1% vs 3.8%, P = .06). Among patients who proceeded to angiography, the false-positive rate for ED CCL activation was 16.9% compared to 11.5% for EMS (P = .01). Although there was no difference comparing inappropriate activation or false-positive rates before and after the QI initiative (P = .22), we observed an encouraging year-to-year trend.

CONCLUSIONS

Emergency department activation of the CCL is associated with a higher false-positive rate than activation by EMS. Further QI efforts are required to improve communication between interventional cardiologists, emergency physicians, and paramedics to improve the specificity of CCL activation while taking care not to sacrifice sensitivity and rapidity of diagnosis.

[Quality assurance with administrative data (QSR): follow-up in quality measurement - an analysis of patient records]

The present study analyses the information gain obtained by evaluating adverse events during follow-up compared to the sole analysis of events during the initial hospital stay for quality measurement purposes. The analysis is based on AOK administrative data from the years 2010 to 2012. The analyses were carried out for 10 quality indicators from the 4 QSR sectors knee replacement for osteoarthritis, appendectomy, prostate surgery for benign prostatic syndrome (BPS) and therapeutic cardiac catheterization (PCI) in patients with myocardial infarction. A total of 409,774 AOK cases were included. For almost all indicators considered, a relevant share of complications can be found to have occurred only after discharge from the initial hospitalization (7.7 %-92.6 %). Furthermore, there is only a weak connection between the findings from the first hospitalization and those from the follow-up period (0.0449 < r < 0.1935). 26-66 % of the hospitals will be classified differently based on Standardized Mortality/Morbidity Ratio (SMR) quartiles if follow-up events are included in the quality assessment (with the exception of "Other Complications after PCI" of 14 %). In summary, quality assessment is improved considerably by evaluating the follow-up period for almost all indicators considered. A quality measurement based solely on events in the initial hospital stay obscures relevant adverse events that have an impact on a comparative hospital quality assessment for these indicators.

Patient satisfaction in cardiology after cardiac catheterization : Effects of treatment outcome, visit characteristics, and perception of received care

BACKGROUND

Patient satisfaction is a key indicator for quality of care. However, recent data on determinants of satisfaction in invasive cardiology are lacking. Hence this study was conducted to identify determinants of patient satisfaction after hospitalization for cardiac catheterization.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data were obtained from 811 randomly selected patients discharged from ten hospitals responding to a mailed post-visit questionnaire. The satisfaction dimension was measured with a validated 42-item inventory assessing demographic and visit characteristics as well as medical, organizational, and service aspects of received care. Bivariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed to identify predictors of satisfaction.

RESULTS

Patients were most satisfied with the kindness of medical practitioners and nurses. The lowest ratings were observed for discharge procedures and instructions. Multivariate analysis revealed five predictors of satisfaction: treatment outcome (OR, 2.14), individualized medical care (OR, 1.64), clear reply to patient's inquiries by physicians (OR, 1.63), kindness of nonmedical professionals (OR, 3.01), and room amenities (OR, 2.02). No association between demographic data and overall satisfaction was observed.

CONCLUSION

Five key determinants that can be addressed by health-care providers in order to improve patient satisfaction were identified. Our findings highlight the importance of the communicational behavior of health-care professionals and the transparency of discharge management.

Association of Roadway Proximity with Fasting Plasma Glucose and Metabolic Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease in a Cross-Sectional Study of Cardiac Catheterization Patients

BACKGROUND

The relationship between traffic-related air pollution (TRAP) and risk factors for cardiovascular disease needs to be better understood in order to address the adverse impact of air pollution on human health.

OBJECTIVE

We examined associations between roadway proximity and traffic exposure zones, as markers of TRAP exposure, and metabolic biomarkers for cardiovascular disease risk in a cohort of patients undergoing cardiac catheterization.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional study of 2,124 individuals residing in North Carolina (USA). Roadway proximity was assessed via distance to primary and secondary roadways, and we used residence in traffic exposure zones (TEZs) as a proxy for TRAP. Two categories of metabolic outcomes were studied: measures associated with glucose control, and measures associated with lipid metabolism. Statistical models were adjusted for race, sex, smoking, body mass index, and socioeconomic status (SES).

RESULTS

An interquartile-range (990 m) decrease in distance to roadways was associated with higher fasting plasma glucose (β = 2.17 mg/dL; 95% CI: -0.24, 4.59), and the association appeared to be limited to women (β = 5.16 mg/dL; 95% CI: 1.48, 8.84 compared with β = 0.14 mg/dL; 95% CI: -3.04, 3.33 in men). Residence in TEZ 5 (high-speed traffic) and TEZ 6 (stop-and-go traffic), the two traffic zones assumed to have the highest levels of TRAP, was positively associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C; β = 8.36; 95% CI: -0.15, 16.9 and β = 5.98; 95% CI: -3.96, 15.9, for TEZ 5 and 6, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Proxy measures of TRAP exposure were associated with intermediate metabolic traits associated with cardiovascular disease, including fasting plasma glucose and possibly HDL-C.

Intramural Ventricular Septal Defect Is a Distinct Clinical Entity Associated With Postoperative Morbidity in Children After Repair of Conotruncal Anomalies

BACKGROUND

Intramural ventricular septal defects (VSDs) are interventricular communications through right ventricular free wall trabeculations that can occur after repair of conotruncal anomalies. We assessed the prevalence of residual intramural VSDs and their effect on postoperative course.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Children who underwent biventricular repair of a conotruncal anomaly from January 1, 2006, to June 30, 2013, and had a postoperative transthoracic echocardiogram were included. Images were reviewed for residual intramural or nonintramural VSDs. The primary outcome was a composite of mortality, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use, and need for subsequent catheter or surgical VSD closure. The secondary outcome was postoperative hospital length of stay. A residual VSD was present in 256 of the 442 subjects (58%), of which 231 (90%) were <2 mm in size. Forty-nine patients (11%) had intramural VSDs, and 207 (47%) had nonintramural VSDs. Patients with intramural VSDs were more likely to reach the primary composite outcome compared with those with nonintramural VSDs or no residual VSD (14 of 49 [29%] versus 15 of 207 [7%] versus 6 of 186 [3%]; P<0.0001). In addition, those with intramural VSDs had longer postoperative hospital length of stay compared with those with nonintramural VSDs or no residual VSD (20 days [interquartile range, 11-42 days] versus 7 days [interquartile range, 5-14 days] versus 6 days [interquartile range, 4-11 days]; P=0.0001). These associations remained significant after adjustment for known risk factors for poor outcomes, including residual VSD size and operative complexity.

CONCLUSIONS

Among residual VSDs after repair of conotruncal anomalies, intramural VSDs are uniquely associated with postoperative morbidity, mortality, and longer postoperative hospital length of stay. It is important to recognize intramural VSDs in the postoperative period.

Follow-up of children exposed to ionising radiation from cardiac catheterisation: the Coccinelle study

Cardiac catheterisation has become an essential tool in the diagnosis and treatment of children with a wide variety of congenital and acquired forms of cardiovascular disease. Despite the clear clinical benefit to the patient, radiation exposure from paediatric cardiac catheterisation procedures (CCPs) may be substantial. Given children's greater sensitivity to radiation and the longer life span during which radiation health effects can develop, an epidemiological cohort study, named Coccinelle or 'Ladybird' (French acronym for 'Cohorte sur le risque de cancer après cardiologie interventionnelle pédiatrique'), is carried out in France to evaluate the risks of leukaemia and solid cancers in this population. A total number of 8000 included children are expected. Individual CCP-related doses will be assessed for each child included in the cohort. For each CCP performed, dosimetric parameters (dose-area product, fluoroscopy time and total number of cine frames) are retrieved retrospectively. Organ doses, especially to the lung, the oesophagus and the thyroid, are calculated with PCXMC software. The cohort will be followed up through linkage with French paediatric cancer registries.

Clinical decision-making of cardiologists regarding admission and treatment of patients with suspected unstable angina or non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction: protocol of a clinical vignette study

INTRODUCTION

Cardiologists face the difficult task of rapidly distinguishing cardiac-related chest pain from other conditions, and to thoroughly consider whether invasive diagnostic procedures or treatments are indicated. The use of cardiac risk-scoring instruments has been recommended in international cardiac guidelines. However, it is unknown to what degree cardiac risk scores and other clinical information influence cardiologists' decision-making. This paper describes the development of a binary choice experiment using realistic descriptions of clinical cases. The study aims to determine the importance cardiologists put on different types of clinical information, including cardiac risk scores, when deciding on the management of patients with suspected unstable angina or non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Cardiologists were asked, in a nationwide survey, to weigh different clinical factors in decision-making regarding patient admission and treatment using realistic descriptions of patients in which specific characteristics are varied in a systematic way (eg, web-based clinical vignettes). These vignettes represent patients with suspected unstable angina or non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction. Associations between several clinical characteristics, with cardiologists' management decisions, will be analysed using generalised linear mixed models.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study has received ethics approval and informed consent will be obtained from all participating cardiologists. The results of the study will provide insight into the relative importance of cardiac risk scores and other clinical information in cardiac decision-making. Further, the results indicate cardiologists' adherence to the European Society of Cardiology guideline recommendations. In addition, the detailed description of the method of vignette development applied in this study could assist other researchers or clinicians in creating future choice experiments.

Patient doses in paediatric interventional cardiology: impact of 3D rotational angiography

The aim of this study was to calculate the contribution of 3D rotational angiography to radiation doses received by paediatric patients in a cardiac catheterisation laboratory. The percentage increase in the median value of air kerma-area product due to cone beam CT was 33 and 16% for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, respectively. Results are presented separately for five age groups and ten weight groups. Several methods for reducing radiation from 3D rotational angiography are suggested and patient doses are compared with previously published values.

Current use of fractional flow reserve: a nationwide survey

Major medical society guidelines recommend the measurement of fractional flow reserve (FFR) as an aid in choosing percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with stable coronary artery disease. We investigated the measurement of FFR among interventionalists, analyzing operators' attributes and decision-making processes to reveal differences in their applications of FFR and the reasons for those differences. An electronic survey study of 1,089 interventionalists was performed from 2 February through 6 March 2012, yielding 255 responses. Most respondents were >45 years old (58%), worked primarily in a community hospital (59%), and performed 10 to 30 cases per month (52%). More than half (145/253, 57%) used FFR measurement in less than one third of cases, and 39 of 253 (15%) never used it. There were no differences in use of FFR by age, practice location, or angiogram volume (P >0.05 for all). Respondents used FFR measurement more frequently than intravascular ultrasonography (73% vs 60%) to help guide the decision to stent (P <0.01). Operators reported that their primary reasons for not using FFR were lack of availability (47%) and problems with reimbursement (39%). There was no difference in FFR use by operator age, practice setting, or case volume.

[Diagnosis and therapy of pulmonary arterial hypertension in Italy: results of the INCIPIT2 survey]

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare clinical condition characterized by increased pulmonary vascular resistance and premature death. It is necessary to activate a pathway from the screening of pulmonary hypertension to the diagnosis of PAH, so as to use the drugs able to improve the outcome. Nowadays, in Italy, there are no data about the management of PAH in peripheral centers and about the integration of peripheral centers with those of excellence.

METHODS

In order to have a map of the actual Italian pathway for diagnosis and therapy of PAH, on behalf of the ANMCO Pulmonary Circulation Area, 923 Italian cardiology departments were asked to reply, on a special electronic file, to a few simple questions about their organization, from December 2012 to May 2013.

RESULTS

101/923 centers (48 in the North, 18 in the Middle, 35 in the South) answered correctly. 32% has no organization for PAH, 68% has a pathway for PAH diagnosis and management, and two thirds of them collaborate with excellence centers. 36 centers perform right heart catheterization with vascular reactivity (21 with nitric oxide, 8 with adenosine, 5 with epoprostenol, 2 with nitric oxide or epoprostenol). 61/101 are prescriber centers: 33 perform right heart catheterization with vascular reactivity test, 23 send their patients to the reference center for right heart catheterization, 5 perform no right heart catheterization before the prescription of specific drugs for PAH, and only 14 prescribe intravenous prostanoids. In 2011, the participating centers followed 561 patients with PAH, of whom 126 (23%) were in independent centers. With regard to the network organization of the groups, the participating centers are partly independent of the diagnostic pathway, partly refer to outside regions; in others there is a structured regional network and there are 3 Italian regions with Hub & Spoke networks that receive patients coming from other regions.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results show the interest of Italian Cardiology to find a pathway for the diagnosis of PAH and a heterogeneity suggesting the need for a shareable pathway, thus improving the collaboration between peripheral cardiology departments and the excellence centers for PAH in a functional Hub & Spoke network.

Incidence and clinical characteristics of transient ST-T elevation during transseptal catheterization for atrial fibrillation ablation

AIMS

Transient ST-T elevation (STE) is a rare complication that occurs during transseptal catheterization. This study aims to delineate the incidence and characteristics of transient STE during transseptal catheterization for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Consecutive patients who underwent fluoroscopy-guided transseptal catheterization for circumferential pulmonary vein radiofrequency ablation in Beijing An Zhen Hospital from January 2006 to January 2013 were enrolled in this study. Out of 2965 patients with a total of 3452 transseptal catheterization procedures, 13 patients (0.38%, mean age 57 ± 8, 6 female, 12 paroxysmal AF, mean left atrial diameter 35.4 ± 3.8 mm) had STE. ST-T elevation occurred after transseptal puncture in 10 patients and after pulmonary vein venography in three patients. Systolic blood pressure (129 ± 10 vs. 104 ± 20 mmHg, P < 0.001), diastolic blood pressure (78 ± 6 vs. 64 ± 11 mmHg, P < 0.001), and heart rate (83 ± 19 bpm vs. 64 ± 23 b.p.m., P = 0.022) significantly decreased when STE occurred. Eleven patients complained of chest pain, one patient complained of dizziness, and one patient had no symptoms. Patients recovered in about 4.6 min (2-10 min) with dopamine or fast saline drip. Catheter ablation of AF was completed in all the 13 patients without sequelae or other complications. Four of the 13 patients (30.8%) had recurrence of AF after a mean follow-up of 21.7 months.

CONCLUSION

ST-T elevation is a rare complication associated with transseptal catheterization without sequelae. Catheter ablation of AF could be safely completed in these patients.

Aortic valve disease

Aortic valve disease is common and has significant impact on prognosis and quality of life. In this educational review, we cover the pathophysiology, presentation and assessment of aortic stenosis (AS) and aortic regurgitation (AR), including the role of imaging modalities beyond echocardiography. We review current treatment strategies and emphasise the use and indications for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in view of recent data highlighting its emergence as a novel treatment option for patients with AS, who are unsuitable for conventional aortic valve replacement (AVR). We also describe novel surgical approaches for AR and potential future strategies for percutaneous intervention.

Switching from transfemoral to transradial access for PCI: a single-center learning curve over 5 years

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) via the transradial (TR) route is an increasingly popular alternative to the transfemoral (TF) route. However, there are limiting factors to its adoption. We report the learning curve over 5 years in a high-volume PCI center during the crossover from TF to TR access for PCI.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate clinical characteristics, radiation doses, screening times, and subsequent clinical outcomes in subjects with femoral and radial access sites for PCI.

DESIGN

We retrospectively analyzed our databases for PCI procedures/outcomes of all patients from 2006-2010.

SETTING

A university teaching hospital PCI center performing cases predominantly femorally at the beginning of the study period, and transitioning to a predominantly radial access center at the end of the study period.

PATIENTS

All patients undergoing PCI via either femoral or radial approach over a 5-year period.

RESULTS

In year 1, TR access was used in 31.4% of cases; this rate increased to 90.1% in year 5. The switch from TF to TR access was observed among all operators and all groups of patients regardless of presentation, gender, age, and lesion complexity. In year 1, fluoroscopy times and radiation doses were higher in the TR group, but equalized in years 2 and 3 and reversed during years 4 and 5 when the TR rate was >90%. Over 5 years, the rates of vascular complications and major bleeding were higher in the TF cohort and were associated with longer hospital stay. In-hospital mortality was lower in the TR group.

CONCLUSION

The change from TF to TR approach for PCI in a high-volume center is achievable within 5 years, and results in marked clinical benefits. There was an initial learning curve for fluoroscopy time and radiation dose, but this improved once an operator performed >60% of cases radially.

Noise versus signal: the clinical implications of an increasingly sensitive troponin assay for patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the clinical impact of a troponin assay switch in suspected acute coronary syndromes (ACS).

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of ACS cases in the 3 months before and after changing to a contemporary, higher sensitivity troponin assay. Admitting diagnosis, proportion with a positive result, initial treatment and testing, coronary artery intervention, inhospital events, and final discharge diagnosis were compared by assay group.

RESULTS

Seven hundred seventy patients were included: 319 (41.4%) preassay and 451 (58.6%) postassay. Preassay change, non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction at admission (43.0% vs. 70.5%; diff [95% confidence interval (CI)] = -27.5 [-34.2, -20.6]) was diagnosed less often, and a positive troponin was less common (33.2% vs. 72.3%; diff [95% CI] = -39.1 [-45.4, -32.2]). However, anticoagulation (53.3% vs. 42.4%; diff [95% CI] = 10.9 [3.8, 18.0]) and cardiac catheterization use were more frequent (53.9% vs. 41.9%; diff [95% CI] = 12.0 [19.0, 48.5]). There was no difference in coronary intervention (41.9% vs. 40.7%; diff [95% CI] = 1.2 [-9.0, 11.2]) by assay period. Inhospital event were rare (unstable ventricular arrhythmia = 1.2%, cardiac arrest = 3.4%, death = 4.4%) with no difference between groups. A non-ACS diagnosis at discharge was more common in the postassay group (31.6% vs. 46.5%; diff [95% CI] = 14.9 [7.9, 21.6]).

CONCLUSIONS

Although non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction diagnosis at admission and a positive troponin were more frequent postassay change, rates of anticoagulation and cardiac catheterization were lower and a non-ACS diagnosis at discharge was more common. These data suggest an evolving understanding and clinical impact of contemporary troponin assays when used in real-world settings.

Screening for pulmonary arterial hypertension in patients with scleroderma--a New Zealand perspective

BACKGROUND

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in scleroderma (SSc) patients is a devastating complication with high mortality if untreated. Early recognition and specific treatment of PAH may improve outcome. Regular interval screening for PAH is generally recommended in scleroderma patients especially with the availability of emerging new therapies. The aim of this study is to determine the self-reported screening and treatment practices for SSc-PAH amongst rheumatologists in New Zealand (NZ).

METHODS

An anonymous online questionnaire survey was emailed to all rheumatologists in New Zealand.

RESULTS

Responses were received from 65% (39/60) of rheumatologists. The majority of patients had limited SSc (lcSSc) (57%) versus diffuse SSc (dcSSc) (34%). Twelve percent of patients had PAH. Eighty-two percent of rheumatologists screened for PAH in all SSc patients regardless of symptoms. The most commonly used screening modalities were pulmonary function tests (PFT) (97%) followed by clinical examination (95%) and echocardiogram (TTE) (92%). The majority of rheumatologists performed screening tests on a yearly basis (80% used PFT and 64% used TTE). A right heart catheter was used to confirm PAH in 70% of patients. Sixty-four percent of rheumatologists extend screening interval time if their patients were clinically stable. The most common PAH-specific therapy used was sildenafil (57%) followed by bosentan (19%). Sixty-four percent of rheumatologists supported a national PAH-SSc screening guideline.

CONCLUSION

This study has shown a wide variability of how NZ rheumatologists screen for PAH in scleroderma patients. The development of a PAH-SSc guideline for screening and diagnosis may help standardise treatment practices in NZ.