Diagnostic thresholds for absolute systolic toe pressure and toe-brachial index in diabetic foot screening

INTRODUCTION@#Identifying peripheral arterial disease (PAD) during diabetic foot screening (DFS) is crucial in reducing the risk of diabetic foot ulcerations and lower limb amputations. Screening assessments commonly used include absolute systolic toe pressure (ASTP) and toe-brachial index (TBI). There is a lack of research defining the threshold values of both assessment methods. We aimed to compare the accuracy of ASTP and TBI and establish optimal threshold values of ASTP and TBI with reference to the internationally accepted ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) screening test, for a multiethnic diabetic population in Singapore.@*METHODS@#A retrospective, observational study of DFS results from January 2017 to December 2017 was conducted. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was conducted for ASTP and TBI using the internationally accepted ABPI cut-off value of ≤0.9 to indicate PAD.@*RESULTS@#A total of 1,454 patients with mean (standard deviation) age of 63.1 (12.4) years old were included. There were 50.8% men and 49.2% women, comprising 69.7% Chinese, 13.5% Indian, 10.1% Malay and 6.7% other ethnicities. Areas under the curve for ASTP and TBI were 0.89 (95% confidence interval [Cl] 0.85-0.94) and 0.94 (95% Cl 0.90-0.98), respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.001). Derived optimal threshold values to indicate ABPI≤0.9 for ASTP and TBI were <95.5mmHg (specificity 0.86, sensitivity 0.84) and <0.7 (specificity 0.89, sensitivity 0.95), respectively.@*CONCLUSION@#ASTP or TBI may be used to detect ABPI-determined PAD in DFS. The optimal threshold values derived from a multiethnic Asian diabetic population were <95.5mmHg for ASTP and <0.7 for TBI.

Factores de riesgo asociados a la enfermedad arterial periférica en pacientes diagnosticados mediante índice tobillo brazo / Risk factors associated with peripheral arterial disease in patients diagnosed using the ankle-brachial index

Introducción: La enfermedad arterial periférica es bien conocida como predictor de morbilidad y mortalidad cardiovascular y cerebrovascular, de ahí la importancia de reconocer sus factores de riesgo. Objetivo: Determinar los factores de riesgo asociados a la enfermedad arterial periférica en pacientes diagnosticados por el índice tobillo brazo. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional analítico transversal, entre el 1ro de septiembre y 30 de noviembre de 2019. El universo fue de 290 pacientes, se trabajó con una muestra de 120, determinada por un muestreo aleatorio simple. Se emplearon estadígrafos descriptivos e inferenciales: prueba t de Student, el odds ratio de prevalencia y la regresión logística binomial. Resultados: Fueron categorizados con índice tobillo brazo < 0,9 un total de 43 pacientes (35,8 por ciento). La media de edad de la población fue de 58,43 ± 16,69. El sexo femenino predominó con 61 pacientes (50,8 por ciento). El índice de masa corporal promedio fue de 24,29 ± 3,29 kg/m2. La hipertensión arterial fue el factor de riesgo más frecuente presentándose en 67,5 por ciento de los pacientes. Se identificaron como factores de riesgo de índice tobillo brazo < 0,9 a la edad ≥ 60 años (OR: 6,41; IC 95 por ciento: 2,04-20,1; p=0,001); la hipertensión arterial (OR: 2,99; IC 95 por ciento: 1,02-8,73; p=0,045); la diabetes mellitus (OR: 3,89; IC 95 por ciento: 1,34-11,3; p=0,012) y la dislipidemia (OR: 4,35; IC 95 por ciento: 1,27-14,8; p=0,019). Conclusiones: La edad avanzada, la hipertensión arterial, la diabetes mellitus y la dislipidemia constituyeron factores de riesgo asociados a la enfermedad arterial periférica(AU)

Introduction: Peripheral arterial disease is well known as a predictor of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality, hence the importance of recognizing its risk factors. Objective: To determine the risk factors associated with peripheral arterial disease in patients diagnosed by the ankle brachial index. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical observational study was carried out from September 1 to November 30, 2019. The universe consisted of 290 patients, a sample of 120 was used, determined by simple random sampling. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used: Student's t test, prevalence odds ratio, and binomial logistic regression. Results: A total of 43 patients (35.8%) were categorized with ankle brachial index <0.9. The mean age of the population was 58.43 ± 16.69. The female sex predominated with 61 patients (50.8 percent). The average body mass index was 24.29 ± 3.29 kg / m2. Hypertension was the most frequent risk factor in 67.5 percent of the patients. Risk factors were identified in ankle brachial index <0.9 at age ≥60 years (OR: 6.41; 95 percent CI: 2.04-20.1; p = 0.001); arterial hypertension (OR: 2.99; 95 percent CI: 1.02-8.73; p = 0.045); diabetes mellitus (OR: 3.89; 95 percent CI: 1.34-11.3; p = 0.012) and dyslipidemia (OR: 4.35; 95 percent CI: 1.27-14.8; p = 0.019). Conclusions: Advanced age, arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia were risk factors associated with peripheral arterial disease(AU)

Comparação do índice tornozelo-braquial com parâmetros de rigidez e resistência arterial periférica avaliados por fotopletismografia em idosos / Comparison of the ankle-brachial index with parameters of stiffness and peripheral arterial resistance assessed by photoplethysmography in elderly patients

O índice tornozelo-braquial (ITB) utiliza a razão entre a pressão arterial sistólica do tornozelo e do braço para diagnosticar de forma não invasiva a doença arterial periférica (DAP). A fotopletismografia (photoplethysmography, PPG) faz a medição e o registro das modificações de volume sanguíneo do corpo humano por meio de técnicas ópticas. Objetivos O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar o ITB com parâmetros de rigidez arterial e resistência periférica avaliados pela PPG em idosos e propor um modelo de predição para o ITB. Métodos Foi realizado um estudo transversal quantitativo. A amostra foi composta por idosos atendidos no ambulatório médico de especialidades da Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina (UNISUL). Foram verificados: idade, sexo, índice de massa corporal (IMC), presença de comorbidades, tabagismo e atividade física. Para comparação das variáveis obtidas com a PPG com o ITB, foi realizada regressão linear bivariada e multivariada, considerando erro α = 0,05. Resultados Foram avaliados 93 idosos, sendo 63,4% mulheres. Em 98,9% dos casos, o ITB apresentou-se dentro da normalidade. Na comparação do ITB e variáveis derivadas da PPG em relação à idade, foram demonstradas associações significativas. Contudo, não foram observadas associações significativas entre ITB e PPG. O modelo multivariado indicou que apenas idade, sexo e tabagismo foram associados ao ITB. Conclusões Como conclusão, o ITB e a PPG demonstraram associação com o envelhecimento arterial, tendo em vista sua correlação com a idade; contudo, o ITB foi relacionado apenas com idade, sexo e tabagismo. Mais estudos são necessários para avaliar o potencial uso da PPG como rastreio de doenças vasculares em rotinas ambulatórias

The ankle-brachial index (ABI) uses the ratio between systolic blood pressures at the ankle and the arm to diagnose peripheral arterial disease (PAD) noninvasively. Photoplethysmography (PPG) measures and records changes to the blood volume in the human body using optical techniques. Objectives The objective of this study was to compare ABI with arterial stiffness and peripheral resistance parameters assessed using PPG in elderly patients and to propose a model for prediction of ABI. Methods A cross-sectional, quantitative study was conducted. The sample comprised elderly patients seen at a medical specialties clinic at the Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina (UNISUL), Brazil. Age, sex, body mass index (BMI), comorbidities, smoking, and physical activity were recorded. The variables obtained using PPG and ABI were compared using bivariate and multivariate linear regression, with an α error of 0.05. Results A total of 93 elderly patients were assessed, 63.4% of whom were women. In 98.9% of cases, ABI was within normal limits. Comparison of ABI with variables acquired by PPG revealed significant associations with age. However, no significant associations were observed between ABI and PPG. The multivariate model indicated that only age, sex, and smoking were associated with ABI. Conclusions In conclusion, ABI and PPG exhibited associations with arterial aging, considering its correlation with age. However, ABI was only related to age, sex, and smoking. More studies are needed to evaluate the potential uses of PPG for screening for vascular diseases in ambulatory settings

Tratamento da doença arterial obstrutiva periférica em território femoropoplíteo com stent primário: análise em até 24 meses / Primary stenting for femoropopliteal peripheral arterial disease: analysis up to 24 months

O stent primário é uma opção de tratamento bem estabelecida para a doença arterial periférica em território femoropoplíteo. Estudos nacionais são escassos. Objetivos Avaliar desfechos clínicos e radiológicos em curto e médio prazo em pacientes classificados como Rutherford 3-6, tratados com o uso de stent em lesões femoropoplíteas. Métodos A análise foi realizada com base em um banco de dados prospectivamente mantido de doentes tratados entre julho de 2012 e julho de 2015. O objetivo primário foi a perviedade. Os objetivos secundários foram melhora na classificação de Rutherford, índice tornozelo/braço, revascularização do vaso-alvo, taxa de salvamento do membro e óbito em até 24 meses. Resultados Foram incluídos 64 pacientes, sendo 61 com lesões TASC II A/B (95%). A taxa de perviedade primária em 6, 12 e 24 meses foi de 95,2%, 79,1% e 57,9%, respectivamente. A análise de regressão de Cox revelou uma menor perviedade em pacientes com doença oclusiva (RR, 6,64, IC 95%, 1,52-28,99, p = 0,02), bem como uma perda de perviedade cerca de seis vezes maior em doentes TASC B do que TASC A (RR, 5,95, IC 95%, 1,67-21,3, p = 0,0061). Em 12 meses, 90,38% dos doentes permaneceram assintomáticos. A taxa de salvamento do membro em 24 meses foi de 94,3% (IC 95%, 87,9-100%). A ausência de revascularização do vaso-alvo em 24 meses foi de 90,5% (IC 95%, 82,8-98,9%). Conclusões Os resultados foram compatíveis com estudos internacionais, apesar do estágio mais avançado da doença vascular observada em nosso grupo. Piores desfechos foram associados a doença oclusiva e lesões complexas

Primary stenting is a well-established treatment option for femoropopliteal arterial obstructive disease. There is a shortage of Brazilian studies of the subject. Objectives To evaluate short and mid-term clinical and radiological outcomes in patients classified as Rutherford 3-6 and treated with stenting of femoropopliteal lesions. Methods Analysis based on a prospectively populated database of patients treated from July 2012 to July 2015. The primary endpoint was primary patency. Secondary endpoints were clinical and ankle/brachial index changes. Target Vessel Revascularization, limb salvage rate and death, within a 24-month follow-up period. Results 64 patients were enrolled, including 61 TASC II A / B lesions (95%). The primary patency rates at 6, 12, and 24 months were 95.2%, 79.1% and 57.9%, respectively. Cox regression analysis revealed lower patency rates in patients with occlusive disease (hazard ratio [HR], 6.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.52-28,99, p = 0.02), as well as patency loss about 6 times higher in TASC B than in TASC A patients ([HR], 5.95, 95% CI, 1.67-21.3, p = 0.0061). At 12 months, 90.38% of the patients remained asymptomatic. The limb salvage rate at 24 months was 94.3% (95% CI, 87.9-100%). Freedom from TVR at 24 months was 90.5% (95% CI 82.8-98.9%). Conclusions Results of primary patency were compatible with international studies, despite the more advanced stage of the vascular disease observed in our group. Occlusive disease and complex lesions were both associated with worse outcomes

Doença arterial obstrutiva assintomática e Índice Tornozelo-Braquial em pacientes com diabetes mellitus tipo 2 / Assintomatic peripheral obstructive arterial disease and Ankle-Brachial Index in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2

OBJETIVO: Rastrear a presença de doença arterial obstrutiva periférica assintomática em portadores de diabetes. MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional, descritivo e transversal de uma amostra composta por 50 pacientes de um ambulatórios de endocrinologia e geriatria, portadores de diabetes mellitus tipo 2, com mais de 5 anos de diagnóstico. O Índice Tornozelo-Braquial foi aferido por meio de esfigmomanômetro oscilométrico automático. A análise de dados foi obtida do software SSPS, versão 22. RESULTADOS: Dos 50 pacientes avaliados, com média de idade de 70 anos (50 a 91 anos de idade), 44% apresentavam Índice Tornozelo-Braquial normal e 16% tinham valores anormais. Como fatores associados de risco, apresentavam hipertensão arterial sistêmica (84%), sedentarismo (78%), dislipidemia (72%) e história de tabagismo (34%), porém sem associação estatística com doença arterial obstrutiva periférica assintomática. CONCLUSÃO: Foi alta a frequência do Índice Tornozelo-Braquial em relação anormal na amostra estudada. Ressalta-se a importância desse índice como método de baixo custo, fácil operacionalidade, não invasivo e de alta aceitabilidade na prática clínica da Atenção Primária de pacientes com risco cardiovascular aumentado.(AU)

OBJECTIVE: To track the presence of asymptomatic peripheral obstructive arterial disease in patients with diabetes. METHODS: This is an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study with 50 patients of an endocrinology and geriatrics outpatient's department with more than five years of diabetes mellitus type 2 diagnosis. The ankle-brachial index was measured through an automatic oscillometric sphygmomanometer. Data analysis was obtained with SSPS Software, version 22. RESULTS: Of the 50 patients evaluated, with a mean age of 70 years (50-91 years of age), 44% presented with normal ankle-brachial index, and 16% had abnormal values. They had , systemic arterial hypertension (84%), sedentarism (78%), dyslipidemia (72%), and smoking history (34%) as associated risk factors, but no statistical association with asymptomatic peripheral obstructive arterial disease. CONCLUSION: This study found a high frequency of abnormal ankle-brachial index in the sample studied. The importance of this index is highlighted as a low-cost, easy-to-operate, non-invasive, highly accepted method in the clinical practice of primary care of patients with increased cardiovascular risk.(AU)

Doença cística adventicial da artéria poplítea: relato de caso / Adventitial cystic disease of the popliteal artery: case report

A doença cística adventicial da artéria poplítea é uma doença pouco frequente, que deve ser considerada no diagnóstico diferencial de pacientes jovens com claudicação intermitente e sem fatores de risco para doença arterial periférica aterosclerótica. Apresentamos um caso de claudicação intermitente de membros inferiores em paciente masculino de 51 anos no qual essa doença foi diagnosticada. Foi submetido a ressecção do segmento de artéria comprometido e interposição de safena autóloga ipsilateral. Discutimos alternativas diagnósticas e terapêuticas

Adventitial cystic disease of the popliteal artery is an uncommon pathology that should be considered in differential diagnostic of younger patients with intermittent claudication and without risk factors for peripheral atherosclerotic arterial disease. We report the case of a 51 year-old male patient presenting with lower-limb intermittent claudication in whom this pathology was diagnosed and who was treated with segmental arterial resection and autologous saphenous vein interposition. We also discuss diagnostic and therapeutic alternatives

Ankle-Brachial Index as a Predictor of Mortality in Hemodialysis: A 5-Year Cohort Study / Índice Tornozelo-Braquial Como Preditor de Mortalidade em Hemodiálise: Um Estudo de Coorte de 5 Anos

Abstract Background: Abnormal ankle-brachial index (ABI) has been found to be a strong predictor of mortality in some hemodialysis populations in studies with relatively short periods of follow-up, lower than 2 years. Objective: This study aimed to assess the predictive value of abnormal ABI as a risk factor for death among patients on maintenance hemodialysis after a 5-year follow-up. Methods: A total of 478 patients on hemodialysis for at least 12 months were included in the study. ABI measurement was performed using a mercury column sphygmomanometer and portable Doppler. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to ABI (low: <0.9; normal: 0.9 to 1.3; and high: >1.3) and followed for a 60-month period. Results: The prevalence rates of low, normal and high ABI were 26.8%, 64.6% and 8.6%, respectively. The 5-year survival rate was lower in the groups with low ABI (44.1%, P<0.0001) and high ABI (60.8%, P= 0.025) than in the group with normal ABI (71.7%). Cox regression was used to evaluate the association between ABI and mortality, adjusting for potential confounders. Using normal ABI as reference, a low, but not a high ABI was found to be an independent risk factor for all-cause mortality (HR2.57; 95% CI, 1.84-3.57 and HR 1.62; 95% CI, 0.93-2.83, respectively). Conclusions: long-term survival rates of patients with either low or high ABI were lower than the one from those with normal ABI. However, after adjustment for potential confounders, only low ABI persisted as an independent risk factor for all-cause mortality among hemodialysis patients.

Resumo Fundamento: O índice tornozelo-braquial (ITB) foi apontado como um forte preditor de mortalidade em algumas populações de pacientes em hemodiálise em estudos com períodos relativamente curtos de acompanhamento (inferior a 2 anos). Objetivo: Avaliar o valor preditivo do ITB anormal como um fator de risco de morte em pacientes em hemodiálise após 5 anos de acompanhamento. Métodos: Um total de 478 pacientes em hemodiálise por pelo menos 12 meses foram incluídos no estudo. A medida de ITB foi realizada usando-se esfigmomanômetro com coluna de mercúrio e Doppler portátil. Os pacientes foram divididos em 3 grupos de acordo com o ITB (baixo: < 0,9; normal: 0,9 - 1,3; e alto: >1,3), e acompanhados por um período de 60 meses. Resultados: As prevalências de ITB baixo, normal e alto foram 26,8%, 64,6% e 8,6%, respectivamente. A taxa de sobrevida de 5 anos foi menor nos grupos com ITB baixo (44,1%, p <0,0001) e ITB alto (60,8%, p = 0,025) que no grupo com ITB normal (71,7%). A regressão de Cox foi usada para avaliar a associação entre ITB e mortalidade, ajustando para potenciais fatores de confusão. Usando o ITB normal como referência, um baixo ITB, mas não um alto ITB foi identificado como um fator de risco independente para mortalidade por todas as causas (HR2,57; IC95%, 1,84-3,57 e HR 1,62; 95% CI, 0,93-2,83, respectivamente). Conclusões: as taxas de sobrevida em longo prazo de pacientes com um ITB baixo ou alto foram menores que de pacientes com um ITB normal. No entanto, após ajuste por fatores de confusão, somente o ITB baixo manteve-se como um fator de risco independente para mortalidade por todas as causas entre pacientes em hemodiálise.

Índice tornozelo-braquial falso negativo / False negative ankle-brachial index

O índice de pressão tornozelo-braquial (ITB) é um excelente método para identificação de doença arterial obstrutiva periférica (DAOP). Os índices baixos frequentemente são associados à coronariopatia grave, entretanto, podem apresentar resultados falsos negativos. O objetivo do trabalho é identificar a prevalência de ITB falso negativo por ultrassom Doppler, com registro gráfico de ondas contínuas ou teste arterial (TA). Foram analisados 382 prontuários de pacientes, submetidos ao exame do TA no período de janeiro de 2014 a dezembro de 2015. Os valores de referência foram considerados de acordo com a Diretriz Brasileira de Angiologia e Cirurgia Vascular, ITB anormal <0,90 e >1,30; ITB normal entre 0,91 a 1,29. Obtivemos como resultado 46 (6,02%) exames que passariam como normais se apenas o ITB fosse levado em consideração, pois os valores encontram-se entre 0,9 e 1,3; porém, ao analisar o aspecto da velocidade das ondas arteriais, concluímos que são portadores de DAOP e, portanto, não seriam diagnosticados como portadores de doença somente com o ITB. Logo, o ITB é um excelente exame de triagem para pacientes portadores de DAOP, porém é passível de resultados falsos negativos, como o que ocorreu em 6% dos pacientes que foram analisados aleatoriamente quanto à curva de velocidade.

The ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) is an excellent method for identifying peripheral arterial obstructive disease (PAOD). Low indices are co mmonly associated with severe coronary disease, however, they may present false negative results. The objective of this study was to identify the prevalence of false negative ABPI by Doppler ultrasound with continuous wave chart recording or arterial test (AT). Methods: We analyzed 382 medical records of patients submitted to the TA exam, performed from January 2014 to December 2015. The reference values were considered, according to the Brazilian Guideline on Angiology and Vascular Surgery, as abnormal ABPI <0.90 and >1.30; Normal ABPI between 0.91 and 1.29. We obtained 46 (6.02%) tests that would pass as normal if the ABPI alone were taken into account, as the values were between 0.9 and 1.3, but when analyzing the aspect of the arterial wave velocity, we concluded that these patients have PAOD, therefore, they would not be diagnosed as having the disease through the ABPI alone. The ABPI is, therefore, an excellent screening test for patients with PAOD, but false negative results are possible, as occurred in 6% of the patients randomly analyzed by the velocity curve.

Association of hemoglobin with ankle-brachial index in general population

OBJECTIVES: Previous studies have demonstrated that both low and high hemoglobin concentrations are predictive of adverse cardiovascular outcomes in various populations. However, an association of hemoglobin with the ankle-brachial index, which is widely used as a screening test for peripheral arterial disease, has not yet been identified. METHODS: We examined 786 subjects (236 women and 550 men) who received routine physical check-ups. The ankle-brachial index and several hematological parameters, including the hemoglobin level, hematocrit and red blood cell count and other demographic and biochemical characteristics were collected. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were performed to assess the relationships between the ankle-brachial index and the independent determinants. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was conducted to calculate the cut-off level of hemoglobin for detecting a relatively low ankle-brachial index (less than 20% of all subjects, which was 1.02). RESULTS: The hemoglobin level, hematocrit and red blood cell count were correlated with the ankle-brachial index in the males (r=-0.274, r=-0.224 and r=-0.273, respectively, p<0.001 for all), but these associations were not significant in the females. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that the independent determinants of the ankle-brachial index included age, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and the white blood cell count for the females and age, hypertension, total cholesterol and hemoglobin (β=-0.001, p<0.001) for the males after adjusting for confounding factors. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the cut-off level of hemoglobin for predicting a low ankle-brachial index was 156.5 g/L in the males. CONCLUSIONS: A high hemoglobin concentration was independently correlated with a low ankle-brachial index in the healthy males, indicating that an elevation in this level may be associated with an increased atherosclerosis risk.

Different methods of calculating ankle-brachial index in mid-elderly men and women: the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)

The ankle-brachial index (ABI) is a marker of subclinical atherosclerosis related to health-adverse outcomes. ABI is inexpensive compared to other indexes, such as coronary calcium score and determination of carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT). Our objective was to identify how the ABI can be applied to primary care. Three different methods of calculating the ABI were compared among 13,921 men and women aged 35 to 74 years who were free of cardiovascular diseases and enrolled in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). The ABI ratio had the same denominator for the three categories created (the highest value for arm systolic blood pressure), and the numerator was based on the four readings for leg systolic blood pressure: the highest (ABI-HIGH), the mean (ABI-MEAN), and the lowest (ABI-LOW). The cut-off for analysis was ABI<1.0. All determinations of blood pressure were done with an oscillometric device. The prevalence of ABI<1% was 0.5, 0.9, and 2.7 for the categories HIGH, MEAN and LOW, respectively. All methods were associated with a high burden of cardiovascular risk factors. The association with IMT was stronger for ABI-HIGH than for the other categories. The proportion of participants with a 10-year Framingham Risk Score of coronary heart disease >20% without the inclusion of ABI<1.0 was 4.9%. For ABI-HIGH, ABI-MEAN and ABI-LOW, the increase in percentage points was 0.3, 0.7, and 2.3%, respectively, and the relative increment was 6.1, 14.3, and 46.9%. In conclusion, all methods were acceptable, but ABI-LOW was more suitable for prevention purposes.

Estudo comparativo do índice tornozelo-braquial em diabéticos e não diabéticos com isquemia crítica / Comparative study of the ankle-brachial index in diabetic and non-diabetic patients with critical limb ischemia

Contexto A calcificação da camada média arterial pode tornar o Índice Tornozelo-Braquial (ITB) falsamente elevado em diabéticos, dificultando a avaliação da doença arterial. Objetivo Comparar os valores do ITB de diabéticos e não diabéticos com isquemia crítica. Métodos Foram incluídos 140 pacientes (60% de diabéticos) acompanhados no Serviço de Cirurgia Vascular do Complexo Hospitalar Universitário Professor Edgard Santos com isquemia crítica por DAOP infra-inguinal. Comparou-se a média dos valores do ITB dos dois grupos de pacientes, correlacionando o ITB com a gravidade da isquemia, segundo a Classificação de Rutherford. A análise estatística foi realizada pelo EPI-INFO. Resultados A maioria dos 140 pacientes (77%) se encontrava na Categoria 5 da Classificação de Rutherford, 6% na 4 e 17% na 6. Nove diabéticos (11%) e um não diabético (2%) apresentaram ITB > 1,15 (p = 0,02), sendo excluídos da análise das médias do ITB. Considerando os 130 pacientes, os 75 doentes diabéticos apresentaram média do ITB na artéria tibial posterior de 0,26 versus 0,28 dos 55 doentes não diabéticos (p = 0,6); e no ITB da artéria pediosa aqueles apresentaram média de 0,32 versus 0,23 desses (p = 0,06). Estratificando os doentes nas categorias da Classificação de Rutherford, não houve diferença nas médias do ITB nas categorias 4 e 5. Apenas em relação à artéria pediosa e em pacientes na Categoria 6, a média do ITB foi significativamente maior em diabéticos (0,44 versus 0,16; p = 0,03). Conclusão Os diabéticos apresentaram maior prevalência de ITB falsamente elevado. Porém, excluindo-se esses casos, a média dos valores de ITB são semelhantes aos não diabéticos, exceto na artéria pediosa, nos pacientes com isquemia na categoria 6.

Calcification of the arterial tunica media can falsely elevate the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) in diabetics, making it difficult to assess arterial disease. Objective To compare ABI values in diabetics and non-diabetics with critical ischemia. Methods A total of 140 patients (60% diabetics) with critical ischemia due to infrainguinal peripheral arterial obstructive disease were recruited from the vascular surgery service at the Complexo Hospitalar Universitário Professor Edgard Santos. Mean ABI values for the two groups of patients were compared and correlated with severity of ischemia, according to the Rutherford Classification. Statistical analysis was conducted using EPI-INFO. Results A majority of the 140 patients (77%) were classified as Rutherford Category 5, 6% as Category 4 and 17% as Category 6. Nine diabetics (11%) and one non-diabetic (2%) exhibited ABI > 1.15 (p = 0.02) and were excluded from the comparative analysis of mean ABIs. For the 130-patient sample, the 75 diabetic patients had a mean ABI for the posterior tibial artery of 0.26, vs. 0.28 for the 55 non-diabetic patients (p = 0.6); while mean ABIs for the dorsalis pedis artery were 0.32 vs. 0.23 respectively (p = 0.06). When the patients were stratified by Rutherford categories, there were no differences in mean ABIs in categories 4 or 5. Only mean ABI for the dorsalis pedis artery in Category 6 patients was significantly higher among diabetics (0.44 vs. 0.16; p = 0.03). Conclusions The diabetic patients had a higher prevalence of falsely elevated ABI, but when these cases were excluded, mean ABI values were similar to those of non-diabetic patients, with the exception of ABI measured at the dorsalis pedis artery in patients with category 6 ischemia.

Identification of peripheral arterial disease in diabetic patients and its association with quality of life, physical activity and body composition / Identificação de doença arterial obstrutiva periférica e sua associação com a qualidade de vida, a atividade física e a composição corporal em pacientes diabéticos

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a risk factor for peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Neither the prevalence of PAD in type 2 (T2) DM nor its detrimental effects on quality of life (QoL) or physical activity (PA) have been well described in the Brazilian population. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the prevalence of newly diagnosed PAD and its associations with QoL, PA and body composition in a sample of T2DM patients from a University Hospital. METHODS: Seventy-three (73) T2DM patients without previous diagnoses of major complications related to T2DM were enrolled. PAD was assessed using the ankle-brachial index (ABI); QoL was measured using a translated and validated SF-36 questionnaire; PA was measured using a modified Baecke questionnaire; and body composition was measured by segmental multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance. RESULTS: PAD prevalence was 13.7%, predominantly of mild severity (ABI between 0.8-0.9). The ABI results correlated with age (ρ=-0.26, P=0.03), DM duration (ρ=-0.28, P=0.02) and systolic and diastolic blood pressure (ρ=-0.33, P=0.007 and ρ=-0.28, P=0.02; respectively). Scores for the SF-36 physical component summary (PCS) were below the normal range, but no negative impact from PAD was identified by the PCS scores (normal-ABI 42.9±11.2 vs. PAD-ABI 38.12±11.07) or the Baecke PA results. Body composition analysis detected excessive body fat, especially in women, but there was no difference between groups. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of previously undiagnosed PAD in this population of T2DM patients was 13.7%, predominantly mild and asymptomatic forms, and was not yet associated with worsened QoL, PA levels or body composition variables...

O Diabetes Mellitus (DM) é fator de risco para a doença arterial obstrutiva periférica (DAOP). A prevalência de DAOP no DM tipo 2 (T2) e o prejuízo adicional causado por esta na qualidade de vida (QoL) e na atividade física (AF) não são bem descritos na população brasileira. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a prevalência e a associação da DAOP recém-diagnosticada com a QoL, a AF e a composição corporal em pacientes T2DM provenientes de um hospital universitário. MÉTODOS: Setenta e três pacientes T2DM, sem complicações maiores relacionadas ao T2DM, foram incluídos. A DAOP foi avaliada pelo índice tornozelo-braquial (ITB); a QoL, pelo questionário traduzido e validado SF-36, e a AF, pelo questionário modificado de Baecke. A composição corporal foi avaliada pela impedância bioelétrica segmentar multifrequencial. RESULTADOS: A prevalência de DAOP foi 13,7%, predominantemente de severidade leve (ITB entre 0,8-0,9). O ITB correlacionou-se com a idade (ρ= -0,26; P= 0,03), a duração do DM (ρ=-0,28; P=0,02) e a pressão arterial sistólica e diastólica (ρ= -0,33; P= 0,007 e ρ= -0,28; P= 0,02; respectivamente). O sumário de saúde física (PCS) do questionário SF-36 estava abaixo da variação normal; contudo, nenhum impacto negativo da DAOP foi identificado no PCS (ABI normal = 42,9±11,2 vs. ABI-DAOP = 38,12±11,07) ou no nível de AF. A análise da composição corporal demonstrou gordura corporal excessiva, especialmente em mulheres; contudo, sem diferenças entre grupos. CONCLUSÃO: A prevalência de DAOP sem diagnóstico prévio nesta amostra de pacientes T2DM foi de 13,7%, predominantemente assintomática e leve, e ainda não associada com piores índices de QoL, nível de AF e composição corporal...

Brachial-Ankle Pulse Wave Velocity as a Screen for Arterial Stiffness: A Comparison with Cardiac Magnetic Resonance

PURPOSE: Despite technical simplicity and the low cost of brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (BA-PWV), its use has been hampered by a lack of data supporting its usefulness and reliability. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of BA-PWV to measure aortic stiffness in comparison to using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 124 participants without cardiovascular risk factors volunteered for this study. BA-PWV was measured using a vascular testing device. On the same day, using CMR, cross-sectional areas for distensibility and average blood flow were measured at four aortic levels: the ascending, upper thoracic descending, lower thoracic descending, and abdominal aorta. RESULTS: Compared to PWV measured by CMR, BA-PWV values were significantly higher and the differences therein were similar in all age groups (all p<0.001). There was a significant correlation between BA-PWV and PWV by CMR (r=0.697, p<0.001). Both BA-PWV and PWV by CMR were significantly and positively associated with age (r=0.652 and 0.724, p<0.001). The reciprocal of aortic distensibility also demonstrated a statistically significant positive correlation with BA-PWV (r=0.583 to 0.673, all p<0.001). CONCLUSION: BA-PWV was well correlated with central aortic PWV and distensibility, as measured by CMR, regardless of age and sex.

Índice tornozelo-braquial como preditor de doença coronariana significativa em pacientes submetidos à angiografia coronária / Ankle-brachial index as a predictor of significant coronary artery disease in patients undergoing coronary angiography

Introdução: O índice tornozelo-braquial é uma ferramenta simples e efetiva para diagnosticar doença arterial periférica, porém não foi ainda validado para o diagnóstico de doença arterial coronariana. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho do índice tornozelo-braquial em predizer doença arterial coronariana em pacientes submetidos à angiografia coronária. Métodos: Pacientes com suspeita clínica de doença arterial coronariana e indicação de angiografia coronária foram avaliados prospectivamente. Doença arterial coronariana significativa foi definida como estenose ≥ 70% em pelo menos uma coronária epicárdica maior ou ramo principal. Uma curva ROC foi construída para definir o ponto de corte do índice tornozelo-braquial que melhor predizia doença arterial coronariana. Resultados: Foram estudados 312 pacientes, cuja média de idades foi 57 ± 11 anos e 50% eram do sexo masculino. Tinham doença coronariana significativa 116 pacientes (37,2%). A medida do índice tornozelo-braquial nestes pacientes foi significativamente menor do que naqueles sem doença arterial coronariana (0,88 ± 0,14 vs. 0,96 ± 0,87; p < 0,01). Índice tornozelo-braquial ≤ 0,87 mostrou sensibilidade de 31%, especificidade de 95,4%, valor preditivo positivo de 75,9% e valor preditivo negativo de 71,6%. A área da curva ROC foi 0,73 (intervalo de confiança de 95% 0,67-0,79). Conclusões: Índice tornozelo-braquial ≤ 0,87 teve alta especificidade para predizer doença arterial coronariana significativa. Considerando o baixo custo e a fácil utilização, a medida do índice tornozelo-braquial pode ser adicionada na prática clínica para auxiliar no diagnóstico de doença arterial coronariana significativa...

Background: The ankle-brachial index is a simple and effective tool for diagnosing peripheral artery disease, but has not been validated for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of the ankle-brachial index to predict coronary artery disease in patients undergoing coronary angiography. Methods: Patients with clinical suspicion of coronary artery disease and indication for coronary angiography were prospectively evaluated. Significant coronary artery disease was defined as the presence of stenosis > 70% of at least one major epicardial coronary artery or any of their major branches. A ROC curve was developed to define the ankle-brachial index cutoff that best predicts coronary artery disease. Results: A total of 312 patients were evaluated: mean age was 57 ± 11 years and 50% were male. One hundred and sixteen (37.2%) patients had significant coronary disease. Ankle-brachial index measurement in these patients was significantly lower than in those without coronary artery disease (0.88 ± 0.14 vs. 0.96 ± 0.87; p < 0.01). Ankle-brachial index < 0.87 showed a sensitivity of 31%, specificity of 95.4%, positive predictive value of 75.9% and negative predictive value of 71.6%. The area under the ROC curve was 0.73 (95% confidence interval of 0.67-0.79). Conclusions: Ankle-brachial index < 0.87 had a high specificity to predict significant coronary disease. Considering its low cost and ease of use, measurement of ankle-brachial index may be incorporated to daily clinical practice to help diagnose significant coronary artery disease...

Validity, reliability and accuracy of oscillometric devices, compared with Doppler ultrasound, for determination of the Ankle Brachial Index: an integrative review / Validade, confiabilidade e acurácia dos dispositivos oscilométricos em comparação ao Doppler, para determinação do Índice Tornozelo-Braquial: revisão integrativa

INTRODUCTION: The conventional method for measuring the ankle-brachial index (ABI) requires a vascular Doppler machine and a trained professional, which is a barrier to the examination becoming more widely adopted across health services. For this reason, the possibility of substituting Doppler monitors for other types of device has been investigated. The objective of this study was to assess the validity, reliability and accuracy of taking ABI measurement using oscillometric devices and compare them to vascular Doppler. METHODS: This is an integrative literature review of four articles. RESULTS: There was very little uniformity between the four studies in terms of ample populations or the methodological procedures used to measure systolic pressures. The results for sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values varied and so did measures of reliability. CONCLUSIONS: The results of these studies do not provide a basis from which conclusions can be drawn on the validity, reliability or accuracy of employing oscillometric devices as a substitute for Doppler for determination of ABI. .

INTRODUÇÃO: A necessidade do Doppler vascular e da capacitação profissional para a realização do método convencional para medida do índice tornozelo-braquial (ITB) é uma barreira à disseminação desse tipo de avaliação nos serviços de saúde. Nesse contexto, a substituição do Doppler por outros dispositivos tem sido investigada. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a validade, a confiabilidade e a acurácia da determinação do ITB com o uso de dispositivo oscilométrico comparado ao Doppler vascular. MÉTODO: Esta revisão integrativa da literatura incluiu quatro artigos. RESULTADOS: Os estudos foram bastante heterogêneos com relação à população estudada e aos procedimentos metodológicos para aferição das pressões sistólicas. Variações nos valores de sensibilidade e especificidade, e valores preditivos positivo e negativo foram observadas, assim como nas medidas de confiabilidade. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados dos estudos não permitiram tecer conclusões acerca da validade, da confiabilidade e da acurácia da utilização do dispositivo oscilométrico em substituição ao Doppler, para determinação do ITB. .

Ankle-brachial index as a predictor of coronary disease events in elderly patients submitted to coronary angiography

OBJECTIVES: To correlate the importance of the ankle-brachial index in terms of cardiovascular morbimortality and the extent of coronary arterial disease amongst elderly patients without clinical manifestations of lower limb peripheral arterial disease. METHODS: We analyzed prospective data from 100 patients over 65 years of age with coronary arterial disease, as confirmed by coronary angiography, and with over 70% stenosis of at least one sub-epicardial coronary artery. We measured the ankle-brachial index immediately after coronary angiography, and a value of <0.9 was used to diagnose peripheral arterial disease. RESULTS: The patients' average age was 77.4 years. The most prevalent risk factor was hypertension (96%), and the median late follow-up appointment was 28.9 months. The ankle-brachial index was <0.9 in 47% of the patients, and a low index was more prevalent in patients with multiarterial coronary disease compared to patients with uniarterial disease in the same group. Using a bivariate analysis, only an ankle-brachial index of <0.9 was a strong predictive factor for cardiovascular events, thereby increasing all-cause deaths and fatal and non-fatal acute myocardial infarctions two- to three-fold. CONCLUSION: In elderly patients with documented coronary disease, a low ankle-brachial index (<0.9) was associated with the severity and extent of coronary arterial disease, and in late follow-up appointments, a low index was correlated with an increase in the occurrence of major cardiovascular events. .

Relacao entre o nivel de atividade fisica estimado pelo Baltimore Activity Scale for Intermittent Claudication e a pedometria em pacientes com claudicacao intermitente / Correlation between physical activity levels of patients with intermittent claudication estimated using the Baltimore Activity Scale for Intermittent Claudication and a pedometer

CONTEXTO: Os pacientes com claudicação intermitente apresentam níveis reduzidos de atividade física. A Baltimore Activity Scale for Intermittent Claudication (BASIC) foi validada para quantificar o nível de atividade física destes pacientes. No entanto, esta validação se baseou em apenas dois dias de monitoramento com acelerômetros, de modo que ainda permanece incerto se a BASIC fornece informações sobre os níveis de atividade física semanal. OBJETIVO: Analisar a correlação entre o nível de atividade física estimada pela BASIC e o nível obtido pelo pedômetro em uma semana, em pacientes com claudicação intermitente. MÉTODOS: Foram estudados 150 pacientes com claudicação intermitente, com idade entre 30 e 80 anos. Foram obtidos os dados sociodemográficos e verificada a presença de comorbidades e de fatores de risco cardiovascular, e a BASIC. O pedômetro foi utilizado por sete dias consecutivos, sendo a análise feita em três diferentes períodos de monitorização (todos os dias, dias da semana e do fim de semana). RESULTADOS: Foi observada correlação entre a BASIC e a média de passos de todos os dias (rho=0,343; p<0,001), dos dias de semana (rho=0,336; p<0,001) e dos dias do final de semana (rho=0,317; p<0,001). CONCLUSÃO: Em pacientes com claudicação intermitente, o nível de atividade física estimado pela BASIC se correlaciona com o nível de atividade física semanal. .

BACKGROUND: The levels of physical activity of patients with intermittent claudication (IC) are usually reduced. The Baltimore Activity Scale for Intermittent Claudication (BASIC) was designed to measure physical activity levels of patients with IC, but its validation was conducted against only two days of monitoring with an accelerometer, and it remains unclear whether BASIC provides information about weekly physical activity levels. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the correlation between physical activity levels of patients with IC estimated using BASIC or a pedometer for one week. METHODS: This study included 150 patients with IC aged 30 to 80 years. Sociodemographic data, comorbidities, cardiovascular risk factors and BASIC scores were recorded. Pedometers were used for seven consecutive days, and data were analyzed for three different periods (all days, weekdays and weekends). RESULTS: BASIC scores and mean number of steps were correlated on all days (rho=0.343, p<0.001), weekdays (rho=0.336, p<0.001) and weekends (rho=0.317, p<0.001). CONCLUSION: In patients with IC, physical activity levels estimated using BASIC correlate with weekly physical activity levels. .

Doença arterial periférica e função renal na hipertensão arterial / Peripheral artery disease and kidney function in hypertensive patients

FUNDAMENTO: Pacientes com Doença Arterial Periférica (DAP) possuem um risco elevado de eventos cardiovasculares existindo uma elevada prevalência dessa patologia em pacientes com doença renal crônica. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo consiste em verificar se existe uma associação entre a DAP e a função renal em pacientes hipertensos. MÉTODOS: A amostra deste estudo foi constituída por um total de 909 pacientes com hipertensão arterial. Foi avaliada a presença de DAP, com recurso ao índice tornozelo-braço (ITB), e a determinação da função renal com base no cálculo da taxa de filtração glomerular. Os indivíduos foram divididos em grupos de acordo com o ITB anormal (< 0,9) e normal (0,9-1,4). RESULTADOS: A porcentagem de pacientes com um ITB anormal foi de 8%. No grupo de pacientes com ITB anormal a prevalência de doença renal crônica foi de 23,4%, comparativamente a uma prevalência de 11,2% no grupo com ITB normal. Por meio da análise de regressão logística multivariável, ajustando o modelo aos factores de risco cardiovasculares convencionais, identificou-se um efeito estatisticamente significativo e independente da eTFG sobre a probabilidade de desenvolvimento de DAP, com um OR de 0,987 (IC: 0,97-1,00). CONCLUSÃO: Demonstrou-se uma associação independente entre a DAP e a doença renal crônica. Dessa forma, a combinação de um diagnóstico preciso da doença renal e a medida de rotina do ITB poderá constituir um meio mais eficiente de identificação de DAP subclínica, permitindo aos indivíduos se beneficiarem de intervenções precoces com o intuito da diminuição do risco cardiovascular.

BACKGROUND: Patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) have a high risk of developing cardiovascular events. There is a high prevalence of PAD in individuals with kidney disease and both are important risk factors for cardiovascular events. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the association between PAD and renal function in hypertensive patients. METHODS: The sample consisted of 909 individuals with arterial hypertension. The presence of PAD was evaluated using the ankle-brachial index (ABI) method and renal function was assessed based on the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). The subjects were divided into groups, according to abnormal (ABI < 0.9) and normal ABI (ABI 0.9-1.4). RESULTS: The percentage of subjects with abnormal ABI was 8%. In the group of individuals with abnormal ABI, prevalence of CKD was 23.4%, compared to a prevalence of 11.2% in patients with normal ABI. Multivariable logistic regression analysis, after adjusting the model to the conventional cardiovascular risk factors, identified a statistically significant and independent effect of eGFR on the likelihood of developing PAD, with an OR of 0.987 (CI: 0.97-1.00). CONCLUSION: An independent association between PAD and chronic kidney disease was observed in the present study. Therefore, the combination of an accurate diagnosis of kidney disease and routine ABI evaluation could constitute a more efficient means to identify subclinical PAD, allowing individuals to benefit from early interventions, aiming at reducing cardiovascular risk.

Índice tornozelo-braço em pacientes hemodialíticos / Ankle-brachial index in hemodialysis patients

INTRODUÇÃO: Apesar da elevada mortalidade dos pacientes em hemodiálise devido às doenças cardiovasculares, é incomum a realização de exames diagnósticos para doença arterial obstrutiva periférica e artérias pouco compressíveis. OBJETIVOS: Analisar a prevalência de doença arterial obstrutiva periférica e artérias pouco compressíveis em hemodialisados, comparando-os com o Grupo Controle. MÉTODOS: Tratou-se de um estudo transversal, com 78 hemodialisados e 88 pacientes que não faziam hemodiálise com, pelo menos, dois fatores de risco para doença arterial obstrutiva periférica (Grupo Controle). Para aferição da pressão arterial sistólica, utilizou-se Doppler vascular portátil e esfigmomanômetro. Esta foi aferida somente nos membros que não possuíam fístula arteriovenosa. O índice tornozelo-braço foi calculado utilizando cada artéria do membro inferior. Foram considerados normais os valores de 0,9 a 1,3. RESULTADOS: Diagnosticou-se doença arterial obstrutiva periférica e artérias pouco compressíveis em 26,9 e 30,8%, dos hemodialisados, e em 33 e 22,7%, do Grupo Controle. Nos hemodialisados, verificou-se o índice tornozelo-braço alterado em 75% dos sintomáticos (p=0,005), em 67,3% dos homens e 31% das mulheres (p<0,005), em 78,6% dos idosos, 34,8% dos adultos jovens (p<0,01) e em 76,9% dos diabéticos (p<0,005 versus não diabéticos). Esses pacientes apresentaram maior prevalência de doença arterial obstrutiva periférica grave do que o Grupo Controle (p<0,01). CONCLUSÕES: O índice tornozelo-braço anormal foi muito prevalente nos grupos estudados; entretanto, os hemodialisados apresentaram alterações mais graves quando comparados ao Grupo Controle. Diabetes melito, sexo masculino e idade avançada foram fatores de risco importantes para a alteração do índice tornozelo-braço nos hemodialisados. O índice tornozelo-braço foi um bom método de rastreio para alterações pesquisadas. Portanto, a utilização deste na rotina de manejo de pacientes em hemodiálise é sugerida.

INTRODUCTION: Despite the high mortality in hemodialysis patients due to cardiovascular diseases, it is unusual performing diagnostic tests for peripheral arterial disease and poorly compressible arteries. OBJECTIVES: To analyze the prevalence of peripheral arterial disease and poorly compressible arteries in hemodialysis patients, by comparing them to the Control Group. METHODS: It was a cross-sectional study with 78 hemodialysis patients and 88 non-hemodialysis patients with at least two risk factors for peripheral arterial disease (Control Group). To evaluate blood pressure, portable vascular Doppler and sphygmomanometer were used. The pressure was measured from the limb without arteriovenous fistula. The ankle-brachial index was calculated for each artery of the lower limb. It was considered normal ankle-brachial index from 0.9 to 1.3. RESULTS: We diagnosed peripheral arterial disease and poorly compressible arteries in 26.9 and 30.8% of hemodialysis patients and in 33 and 22.7% of the Control Group. In hemodialysis patients, we found abnormal ankle-brachial index in 75% of symptomatic patients (p=0.005), in 67.3% of men and 31% of women (p<0.005), in 78.6% of the elderly, 34.8% of young adults (p<0.01), and 76.9% of diabetics (p<0.005 versus nondiabetic). These patients had a higher prevalence of severe peripheral arterial disease than the Control Group. CONCLUSIONS: Abnormal ankle-brachial index was very prevalent in the groups studied; however, hemodialysis patients had more severe changes, when compared to the Control Group. Diabetes mellitus, male gender, and advanced age were important risk factors for abnormal ankle-brachial index in hemodialysis patients. The ankle-brachial index was a good method of screening for the studied changes; therefore, we suggest the routine use in the management of hemodialysis patients.