O efeito da pandemia por COVID-19 no atendimento da síndrome coronariana aguda: coorte retrospectiva / The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the management of acute coronary syndrome: a retrospective cohort study

OBJETIVO: avaliar a contribuição da pandemia por COVID-19 sobre os tempos de atendimento e desfechos clínicos de admissões relacionadas à Síndrome Coronariana Aguda. MÉTODO: Coorte retrospectiva. Os dados foram analisados pelo SPSS, versão 20.0, empregados em testes paramétricos e não paramétricos para comparar os grupos. Aplicado o Modelo linear generalizado para análise multivariada. RESULTADOS: Incluídos 434 pacientes no período pré-pandemia e 430 durante a pandemia. Delta-t foi maior no período durante a pandemia (p=0,003). Não encontramos diferença nos tempos de atendimento e mortalidade. Admissão no período da pandemia (RR1,56; IC95%:1,30-1,87) e ter diagnóstico de cardiopatia isquêmica prévio (RR1,82; IC95%:1,50-2,20) foram associados ao aumento do Delta-t. CONCLUSÃO: Não houve diferença no número de pacientes que acessou a emergência por Síndrome Coronariana Aguda nos períodos analisados. Apesar do Delta-t ter sido maior durante a pandemia, não foram observados piores desfechos clínicos.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on response times and clinical outcomes of acute coronary syndrome admissions. METHOD: Retrospective cohort study. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 with parametric and non-parametric tests for group comparisons. Generalized linear modeling was used for multivariate analysis. RESULTS: 434 patients were included in the pre-pandemic period and 430 during the pandemic. Delta-t was higher during the pandemic period (p=0.003). There were no differences in response times and mortality. Admission during the pandemic period (RR 1.56; 95% CI: 1.30-1.87) and a previous diagnosis of ischemic heart disease (RR 1.82; 95% CI: 1.50-2.20) were associated with increased delta-t. CONCLUSIONS: There was no difference in the number of patients presenting to the emergency department with acute coronary syndrome during the periods analyzed. Despite longer Delta-t during the pandemic, no worse clinical outcomes were observed.

Cold and Heat in Acute Coronary Syndrome： A Review / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Cold and heat belong to the eight-principal syndrome differentiation of traditional Chinese medicine， which can reflect the rise and fall of Yin and Yang in the body and the Yin and Yang nature of the disease. At present， traditional Chinese medicine has an inconsistent understanding of cold and heat in acute coronary syndrome. The emphasis on pathogenic factors of cold and heat is biased， and the elements of cold and heat syndrome are not fully reflected in the scale. Therefore， the literature has been reviewed from the perspectives of etiology， pathogenesis， symptom elements， and test signs with drugs. From the perspective of etiology， both cold evil and heat evil can increase the risk of acute coronary syndrome. It was previously believed that acute coronary syndrome occurs frequently in cold climates such as winter and spring. Based on this understanding， hot weather can also induce acute coronary syndrome， and different temperatures have different effects on patients of different ages and with different underlying diseases. In addition， artificial pathogenic factors such as excessive consumption of cold food and refrigeration air conditioners were added. From the perspective of pathogenesis， on the basis of the traditional ''asthenia in origin and asthenia in superficiality'' and ''phlegm stagnation''， it is found that Yin-cold and fire-heat can both cause paralysis of the heart chakra and pain induced by the blockage. The pathogenesis of acute coronary syndrome characterized by heat stagnation and coldness featuring heartburn should be distinguished from gastroesophageal reflux disease. Moreover， the pathogenesis of Yin cold coagulation and pulse stagnation and wind obstruction are different. The acute coronary syndrome is in line with the wind characteristics of frequent changes and can be treated with wind medicine. From the perspective of syndrome elements， the syndrome elements such as cold condensation， heat accumulation， and toxicity are analyzed， and the use of basic syndrome elements and their combination forms facilitates clinical and scientific research. In addition， according to the test sign with the drug， it can be seen that the attributes of cold and heat of traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions for acute coronary syndrome can be explained according to the temperature-sensitive transient receptor potential （TRP） ion channel， thus proving the pathogenesis of cold and heat of acute coronary syndrome.

Impact of Mobile Application Intervention: DETAK in Early Detection and Early Treatment of Acute Coronary Syndrome

@#Introduction: Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) is still a major cause of mortality and morbidity globally. One of the factors that cause a prehospital delay is the delay in early detection and inaccuracy of early treatment of ACS. The Internet of Things, which is supported by the high use of smartphones with the DETAK application, can be an opportunity to facilitate ACS education programs so that ACS can be detected early. Method: This study has used a quantitative research design with a quasi-experimental approach which pretest and posttest, in which both the experimental and control groups participate. The inclusion criteria of this study were age >45 years; obesity; smoker; Respondents with a history of: hypertension/diabetes mellitus/hyperlipidemia/hypercholesterolemia/CVD/families with cardiovascular disease. 252 respondents who met the inclusion criteria were randomly divided into control (n=126) and intervention groups (n=126). The intervention group was given education through the DETAK application and the control group was given leaflet about ACS. Results: The results of the study showed that there was an increased in early treatment ability was only found in the intervention group (p<.001). Mean differences of the ability of early detection (p<.001) and early treatment (p=.019)between intervention and control groups were both significance. Conclusion: There is potential for DETAK applications to improve the early detection and treatment capabilities of ACS.

Hemoglobin/Red Cell Distribution Width Ratio is Associated With Poor Prognosis in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome in Long-Term Follow-Up

Abstract Background Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is the most common subtype of coronary artery disease (CAD). It is one of the main reasons affecting the expected life expectancy and quality of life. Objetives In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and Hemoglobin (Hb)/Red cell distribution width (RDW) in long-term follow-up after ACS. Methods A total of 1,146 ACS patients were included in the study, being classified according to the type of myocordial infarction (MI). MACE were recorded in long-term follow-up. The relationship between Hb/RDW and MACE was investigated. The statistical analyses of Mann-Whitney U test for comparison of two independent groups and chi-square test for categorical variables were used. In order to determine the diagnostic feature of the HB/RDW ratio, the diagnostic ratios were calculated by applying Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve (ROC) analysis. A p < 0.05 value was considered statistically significant in all analyses. Results: When the patients were analyzed according to MI types — ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)/Non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) —, it was observed that Hb/RDW (p = 0.038) was significantly higher in the STEMI group. The Hb/RDW ratio was statistically significant in predicting mortality. As a result of ROC analysis, Area Under the Curve (AUC) = 0.654 (p < 0.001) was found. The cut-off value for the Hb/RDW ratio was calculated as 0.947. The sensitivity and specificity of 76.9% and 48.4% for the diagnostic rates obtained were moderately acceptable. Conclusion The Hb/RDW-long-term mortality relationship was found to be significant in ROC analysis. It can be used in clinical practice as it is cheap, easy to apply, and reduces possible bias in post-ACS follow-up.

Quality of acute coronary syndrome care and in hospital outcome in a resource-poor setting in Northern Ghana

Introduction: African countries are facing an epidemic of cardiovascular diseases. Information on the quality of acute coronary syndrome care offered in underserved communities in Ghana is limited. Using objective criteria, we examined the quality of acute coronary syndrome care offered to patients presenting to a tertiary referral center in Northern Ghana. Methods: we conducted a retrospective review of patients ≥ 18 years old with acute coronary syndrome managed in Tamale Teaching Hospital. We assessed in-hospital outcomes and the extent of compliance to key performance and quality indicators as contained in the 2017 American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology guideline for adults with myocardial infarction. Results: sixty-two (62) patients with a mean age of 56.0 ± 16.1 years were recruited. The median delay to presentation was 24 hours (IQR 15-96 hours). 33.9% had ST-elevation myocardial infarction, of which only 14.3% received reperfusion therapy. About three-quarters of patients received dual antiplatelet therapy at discharge, with fewer patients receiving recommended high-intensity statin therapy (65.5%) or beta-blockers (69.1%). Only 38.2% of patients had their left ventricular ejection fraction documented. No cardiac rehabilitation program existed. Risk stratification of patients with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction or stress testing for conservatively managed patients was not part of routine practice. Conclusion: acute coronary syndrome management remains a challenging issue in Northern Ghana. Several gaps exist in the care quality, timeliness of interventions and rehabilitation of affected patients. There is an urgent need for measures to improve the delivery of acute coronary syndrome care alongside primary prevention strategies.

Infarto agudo de miocardio y factores de riesgo predisponentes

Fundamento: más de siete millones de personas mueren cada año como consecuencia de la cardiopatía isquémica. La incidencia de factores de riesgo constituye una sobrecarga de actividad para el corazón lo que presupone un incremento en la ocurrencia de infarto del miocardio. Objetivo: determinar la epidemiología del infarto agudo de miocardio y factores de riesgo predisponentes. Método: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, analítico, longitudinal, retrospectivo de serie de casos a partir de la población con diagnóstico de infarto agudo de miocardio evaluados en el Servicio de Urgencias Médicas del Hospital Docente Clínico Quirúrgico Carlos Enrique Font de Banes, provincia Holguín durante el período mayo 2022- 2023. El universo abarcó 57 individuos diagnosticados. Por muestreo probabilístico aleatorio simple, se obtuvo la muestra de 38 casos. Se operacionalizaron las variables: edad, sexo, modalidad de infarto, factores de riesgo, riesgo cardiovascular global. Fueron utilizados los estadígrafos: Chi cuadrado de Pearson, Odd Ratio (OR), incluidos p e intervalo de confianza. Resultados: el sexo masculino prevaleció en un 63,1 %. El grupo de edades 60-69 años resultó el más afectado con un 31,6 %. El infarto agudo de miocardio doloroso fue de 71,1 % (OR=6), con elevación del ST 76,3 % (OR=10,3) y de cara posterior un 39,5 % obtuvo valores estadísticos elevados. Los factores de riesgo, hipertensión arterial (X2=25,4 OR=14 IC95 % (4,6; 42,3) y los antecedentes familiares de enfermedad cardiovascular (X2=5,2 OR=2,9 IC95 % (1,1; 7,4)) expresaron asociación altamente significativa para infarto agudo de miocardio. El riesgo cardiovascular global medio predominó (52,6 % OR=1,23 X2=0,21). Conclusiones: los individuos con infarto agudo de miocardio muestran un riesgo cardiovascular global medio a expensas de factores de riesgo prevenibles.

Foundation: more than seven million people die each year as a result of ischemic heart disease. The incidence of risk factors constitutes an overload of activity for the heart, which presupposes an increase in the occurrence of myocardial infarction. Objective: determine the epidemiology of acute myocardial infarction and predisposing risk factors. Method: a descriptive, analytical, longitudinal, retrospective study of a series of cases was carried out from the population with a diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction evaluated in the Medical Emergency Service of the Carlos Enrique Font Banes Clinical Surgical Teaching Hospital, Holguín province during the period May 2022-2023. The universe covered 57 diagnosed individuals. By simple random probabilistic sampling, a sample of 38 cases was obtained. The variables were operationalized: age, sex, type of infarction, risk factors, global cardiovascular risk. The following statisticians were used: Pearson's Chi square, Odd Ratio (OR), including p and confidence interval. Results: the male sex prevailed in 63.1 %. The age group 60-69 years old was the most affected with 31.6 %. Painful acute myocardial infarction was 71.1 % (OR=6), with ST elevation 76.3 % (OR=10.3) and on the posterior side 39.5 % obtained high statistical values. The risk factors, arterial hypertension (X2=25.4 OR=14 95 % CI (4.6; 42.3) and family history of cardiovascular disease (X2=5.2 OR=2.9 95 % CI (1, 1; 7.4)) expressed a highly significant association for acute myocardial infarction. The mean global cardiovascular risk predominated (52.6 % OR=1.23 X2=0.21). Conclusions: individuals with acute myocardial infarction show an average global cardiovascular risk at the expense of preventable risk factors.

¿El pretratamiento en los SCASEST recomendado por las guías es lo que refleja el mundo real? / Is the NSTEACS pretreatment recommended by the guidelines what reflects the real world?

Resumen El momento adecuado para la administración de los inhibidores P2Y12 en pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo sin elevación del segmento ST es tema de debate desde hace dos décadas. Las recomendaciones actuales de las guías europeas sugieren administrar ácido acetilsalicílico y aguardar el momento de la cinecoronariografía, y una vez conocida la anatomía agregar un inhibidor P2Y12 solo en aquellos casos en que se programe una estrategia intervencionista precoz. Sin embargo, en el mundo real la estrategia de realizar o no pretratamiento es más compleja. Existe la incertidumbre respecto a que el paciente pueda acceder o no a una cinecoronariografía dentro de las 24 horas. En este escenario, el pretratamiento al ingreso de un paciente de riesgo intermedio o alto podría ser una opción si no va a ser estudiado con cateterismo dentro de las 2 a 4 horas del ingreso, analizando previamente el riesgo isquémico y de sangrado del paciente. Aún faltan estudios a gran escala que comparen estas dos opciones.

Abstract The appropriate time for the administration of P2Y12 inhibitors in patients with non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome has been the subject of debate for two decades. The current recommendations of the European guidelines suggest administering acetylsalicylic acid and waiting for the coronary angiography and once the anatomy is known, adding a P2Y12 inhibitor only in those cases in which an early interventional strategy is scheduled. However, in the real world, the strategy to perform pretreatment or not is more complex. There is uncertainty regarding whether the patient can access a coronary angiography within 24 hours. In this scenario, pretreatment upon admission of intermediate or high-risk patients could be an option if it is not studied with catheterization within 2 to 4 hours of admission, previously analyzing the patient's ischemic and bleeding risk. Large-scale studies comparing these two options are still lacking.

Predicción de riesgo cardiovascular y periodontitis en pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo, Holguín 2020

Introducción : La predicción del riesgo cardiovascular favorece la prevención de eventos cardiovasculares. Objetivo : Estimar el riesgo cardiovascular y determinar la condición periodontal de pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo. Método : Se realizó un estudio transversal en 60 sujetos admitidos en la Unidad de Cuidados Coronarios del Hospital Provincial Vladimir Ilich Lenin, con diagnóstico de síndrome coronario agudo, que a su vez cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión. Se tuvieron en cuenta los principios de ética médica, se empleó el índice Periodontal de Russell y se determinó el riesgo cardiovascular según las Tablas de Predicción de Riesgo Cardiovascular aprobadas para Cuba. Se evaluaron las variables incluidas en dichas tablas. Resultados : El infarto agudo de miocardio se presentó en el 58,3 por ciento. El 55,0 por ciento eran del sexo masculino, 35,0 por ciento se encontraban en el grupo de edad de 55 a 64 años. En relación con la condición periodontal, el 76,7 por ciento presentó periodontitis. Según los factores de riesgo explorados la adicción tabáquica estuvo presente en el 71,7 por ciento y la hipertensión arterial en el 65,0 por ciento de los sujetos. El 25,0 por ciento de los pacientes con riesgo cardiovascular bajo presentaba periodontitis. Conclusiones : Según las tablas de predicción de riesgo cardiovascular empleadas, más de la mitad de los pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo presentaron riesgo cardiovascular bajo o moderado, sin embargo, la mayoría de estos presentaban periodontitis(AU)

Introduction : Prediction of cardiovascular risk favors prevention of cardiovascular events. Objective : To estimate cardiovascular risk and determine the periodontal condition of patients with acute coronary syndrome. Methods : A cross-sectional study was carried out with 60 subjects admitted to the coronary care unit at Hospital General Docente Vladimir Ilich Lenin, with a diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome and, in turn, meeting with the inclusion criteria. The principles of medical ethics were taken into account, the Russell's Periodontal Index was used, and cardiovascular risk was determined according to the cardiovascular risk prediction tables approved for Cuba. The variables included in these tables were evaluated. Results : Acute myocardial infarction occurred in 58.3 percent of the patients. 55.0 percent were male, and 35.0 percent were in the age group 55-64 years. Regarding their periodontal condition, 76.7 percent presented periodontitis. According to the explored risk factors, tobacco addiction was present in 71.7 percent, while arterial hypertension was present in 65.0 percent of the subjects. 25.0 percent of the patients with low cardiovascular risk had periodontitis. Conclusions : According to the used cardiovascular risk prediction tables, more than half of the patients with acute coronary syndrome presented low or moderate cardiovascular risk; however, most of these had periodontitis(AU)

Protocolos de diagnóstico acelerado basados en troponina de alta sensibilidad en el diagnóstico del dolor torácico: una revisión sistemática / Accelerated Diagnostic Protocols Based on High-Sensitivity Troponin in the Diagnosis of Thoracic Pain: A Systematic Review

RESUMEN Introducción: Los protocolos de diagnóstico acelerado de dolor torácico, con el avance de la troponina de alta sensibilidad, permiten identificar a los pacientes que ingresan al servicio de urgencias con dolor torácico de bajo riesgo para un evento cardiovascular adverso mayor, que podrían ser dados de alta de forma temprana y segura, con ahorro de tiempo y recursos. Objetivo: Evaluar ensayos clínicos que utilicen protocolos de diagnóstico acelerado basados en troponina de alta sensibilidad. Material y métodos: se realizó una búsqueda de ensayos clínicos aleatorizados que evaluaran protocolos de diagnóstico acelerado basados en troponina de alta sensibilidad en los servicios de urgencias, en las bases de datos MEDLINE/Ovid, Cochrane y EMBASE utilizando los criterios de evaluación del manual Cochrane y la estrategia PRISMA Resultados: Tras una tamización de 3509 estudios se incluyeron 5 ensayos clínicos que incluyeron 1513 pacientes; se identificaron 409 (27%) altas tempranas, el 91% para el protocolo 0/3 h ESC, 72% para el 0/1 h, 48% para el EDACS, 40% para el HEART, 19 y 32% para ADAPT y 8 y 18% para el cuidado usual. El valor predictivo negativo fue alto, en un rango de 99,1 al 100% La duración media de la estancia hospitalaria fue más baja para los protocolos 0/1 h y 0/3 h ESC, con 4,6 y 5,6 horas respectivamente. Conclusiones: Los protocolos de diagnóstico acelerado en dolor torácico que implementan el uso de troponina de alta sensibilidad permiten lograr alta proporción de altas tempranas con baja tasa de eventos cardiovasculares mayores, con disminución del tiempo de estancia y recursos consumidos.

ABSTRACT Background: Accelerated diagnostic protocols for chest pain, with the advancement of high-sensitivity troponin, make it possible to identify patients admitted to the emergency department with chest pain and low risk for a major adverse cardiovascular event, who could be discharged immediately, early and safely, saving time and resources. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess clinical trials using accelerated diagnostic protocols based on high-sensitivity troponin. Methods: A search of randomized clinical trials evaluating accelerated diagnostic protocols based on high-sensitivity troponin in emergency services was carried out in MEDLINE/Ovid, Cochrane and EMBASE database, using the assessment criteria of the Cochrane manual and the PRISMA strategy. Results: After screening 3509 studies, 5 clinical trials, including 1513 patients, were analyzed. Early discharges were identified in 409 (27%) of patients, in 91% of cases for ESC 0/3-h protocols, 72% for 0/1-h, 48% for EDACS, 40% for HEART, 19% and 32% for ADAPT and 8% and 18% for standard care protocols. The negative predictive value was high, in the 99.1-100% range. Mean length of hospital stay was lower for the 0/1-h and ESC 0/3-h protocols, with 4.6 and 5.6 hours, respectively. Conclusions: Accelerated diagnostic protocols in chest pain using high-sensitivity troponin allow a higher proportion of early discharges with a low rate of major cardiovascular events, with reduction in length of hospital stay and resources used.

Registro de síndromes coronarios agudos en centros de alta complejidad de Argentina. ReSCAR 2022 / Acute Coronary Syndromes in High Complexity Centers of Argentina. The ReSCAR Registry

RESUMEN Introducción : Realizamos un registro multicéntrico para analizar el abordaje diagnóstico y terapéutico de todos los tipos de síndromes coronarios agudos; este registro es el primero en abordar en detalle aquellos cuadros que cursan sin enfermedad coronaria epicárdica significativa. Es importante conocer la realidad del actual accionar médico con el objeto de hallar oportunidades de mejora. Material y métodos : Se registraron en forma prospectiva pacientes hospitalizados por síndrome coronario agudo en 15 centros de Argentina, con diagnóstico con troponina ultrasensible, servicio de unidad coronaria y hemodinamia disponible las 24 horas, entre enero y agosto de 2022. Resultados : Se incluyeron 984 pacientes consecutivos, un 22,2% con angina inestable, 39,1% con infarto agudo de miocardio sin elevación del segmento ST (IAMSEST) y 24,1% con infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST (IAMCEST). Por otro lado, el 4,1% se presentó como IAM tipo 2, 1,2% como miocarditis, 0,7% como síndrome de Takotsubo y 8,6% como infarto de miocardio con enfermedad coronaria no obstructiva (MINOCA). La mediana (rango intercuartílico, RIC) de edad fue de 66 años (56,5-74), con un 75,3% de pacientes de sexo masculino. El manejo inicial de los pacientes sin elevación del segmento ST fue invasivo en el 84%, con una tasa de enfermedad coronaria significativa del 76,5%. En cuanto a la evolución intrahospitalaria, las complicaciones isquémicas más relevantes fueron el reinfarto (2,84%), angina recurrente (2,4%), angina post infarto (2%) y trombosis intra stent (0,5%). El porcentaje de eventos hemorrágicos totales fue de 4,4% y la mortalidad intrahospitalaria total fue de 3,76%. Conclusiones : El registro tiene una buena representación del espectro de pacientes con sospecha inicial de síndrome coronario agudo, manejados en centros con una estrategia inicial principalmente invasiva, con una baja tasa de complicaciones hospitalarias y una mortalidad global aceptable.

ABSTRACT Background : We conducted a multicenter registry to analyze the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to all types of acute coronary syndromes; this registry is the first to provide detailed information on conditions without significant epicardial coronary artery disease. Knowing the reality of current medical practice is important to find opportunities for improvement. Methods : Patients hospitalized for acute coronary syndrome between January and August 2022 in 15 centers of Argentina, with high-sensitivity cardiac troponin, coronary care unit, and catheterization laboratory available 24 hours, were prospectively recorded. Results : A total of 984 consecutive patients were included, 22.2% with unstable angina, 39.1% with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and 24.1% with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Additionally, 4.1% presented as type 2 AMI, 1.2% as myocarditis, 0.7% as Takotsubo syndrome and 8.6% as myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA). Median age was 66 years [interquartile range (IQR) 56.5-74] and 75.3% were men. An early invasive management was used in 84% of patients without ST segment elevation, and 76.5% of them had significant coronary artery disease. During hospitalization, 2.84% of the patients presented reinfarction, 2.43% recurrent angina, 2% postinfarction angina and 0.5% stent thrombosis. Bleeding events occurred in 4.4% of the patients, and overall in-hospital mortality was 3.76%. Conclusions : The registry has a good representation of the spectrum of patients with initial suspicion of "acute coronary syndrome", managed in centers with an invasive initial strategy and with low rate of in-hospital complications and acceptable overall mortality.

Estratificación de riesgo del dolor torácico en el servicio de urgencia / Risk stratification of chest pain in the emergency department

El dolor torácico es un motivo de consulta frecuente en los servicios de urgencia. Su espectro de presentaciones y su diagnóstico diferencial es amplio, con patologías de elevada morbilidad y mortalidad asociadas. Es el síntoma principal en pacientes con un síndrome coronario agudo y, ante su sospecha es mandatorio realizar una evaluación inicial centrada en la estratificación de riesgo de sufrir eventos adversos en cada paciente, para así definir su tratamiento y disposición posterior de forma correcta. Objetivo: presentar los elementos que componen la evaluación inicial del dolor torácico ante una sospecha de síndrome coronario agudo y las herramientas disponibles para realizar la estratificación de riesgo y así guiar la disposición desde el servicio de urgencia. Método: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica de la literatura sobre la estratificación de riesgo del dolor torácico, buscando la evidencia actual respecto a las herramientas diagnósticas utilizadas habitualmente en el servicio de urgencia. Resultados: Se presenta una revisión con generalidades del dolor torácico, sus diagnósticos diferenciales, los elementos de la evaluación inicial y las herramientas clínicas para la evaluación de riesgo de pacientes con dolor torácico y sospecha de síndrome coronario agudo en el servicio de urgencia. Discusión y conclusiones: La presentación del síndrome coronario agudo es variable en la población. Ante la presencia de un cuadro de dolor atípico y/o un electrocardiograma no diagnóstico, recomendamos el uso de un sistema de puntaje validado como el HEART / HEART pathway para reducir la posibilidad de una inadecuada estratificación de riesgo en el servicio de urgencia

Chest pain is a common complaint in emergency departments. The spectrum of presentation and its differential diagnosis are broad, including pathologies associated with high morbidity and mortality, and it is the main symptom in patients suffering from acute coronary syndrome. If suspected, it is mandatory to work out an initial evaluation focused on the risk stratification of adverse events for each patient to define their correct treatment and disposition. Objective: show the elements that involve the initial evaluation of chest pain suspicious of an acute coronary syndrome, the clinical tools available to perform risk stratification, and guide the disposition from the emergency department. Method: a review of the literature on chest pain risk stratification was performed, looking for current evidence of the most commonly used diagnostic tools in emergency departments. Results: we present a literature review of generalities about chest pain and its differential diagnoses, the elements to consider in the initial evaluation, and clinical tools for risk stratification of patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome at the emergency department. Discussion and conclusions: the presentation of acute coronary syndrome is variable in the population. In the presence of atypical chest pain or a non-diagnostic electrocardiogram, we recommend using a validated score as the HEART / HEART Pathway to reduce the chance of inadequate risk stratification in the emergency department.

Características y evolución clínica de pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio y elevación del segmento ST con y sin bloqueo interauricular

Fundamento resulta novedoso establecer la relación entre bloqueo interauricular e infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST debido a los pocos estudios que abordan el tema. Objetivo evaluar las características y evolución clínica de pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST con y sin bloqueo interauricular. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo y correlacional en unidades de cuidados progresivos del Hospital General Universitario Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima de Cienfuegos. Se seleccionaron 169 sujetos con diagnóstico de infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST divididos en dos grupos con y sin bloqueo interauricular. Se analizaron como variables demográficas: edad, sexo, color de la piel y entre las clínicas hábitos tóxicos (fumador, exfumador); antecedentes patológicos (infarto de miocardio, angina, enfermedad arterial periférica, hipertensión arterial, diabetes mellitus tipo 2, enfermedad renal crónica; localización del infarto (anterior, inferior, bloqueo de rama izquierda); complicaciones: insuficiencia cardíaca, fibrilación auricular, taquicardia ventricular/fibrilación ventricular, trastornos de conducción aurículo ventricular, complicación mecánica, angina postinfarto, embolismo arterial) y estado al egreso (vivo o fallecido). Resultados el 52,17 % de los pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST con bloqueo interauricular desarrollaron insuficiencia cardíaca, vs el 29,45 % de los pacientes sin bloqueo con significación estadística (p = 0.03). La relación entre la ocurrencia o no de complicaciones (así como el estado al egreso) y la presencia o no de bloqueo resultó muy significativa (p=0.01). Conclusiones el análisis minucioso en este contexto, de otros aspectos no habituales como la onda p, debe ser también rutinario, pues la documentación de bloqueo interauricular pudiera relacionarse con el curso clínico de los pacientes.

Foundation: it is novel to establish the relationship between interatrial block and acute myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation due to the few studies that address the subject. Objective: to evaluate the characteristics and clinical evolution of patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction with and without interatrial block. Methods: a descriptive and correlational study was carried out in progressive care units of the Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima University General Hospital in Cienfuegos. 169 subjects with a diagnosis of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction divided into two groups with and without interatrial block were selected. Demographic variables were analyzed: age, sex, skin color and between clinics: toxic habits (smoker, ex-smoker); medical history (myocardial infarction, angina, peripheral arterial disease, arterial hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease; infarct location (anterior, inferior, left bundle branch block); complications: heart failure, atrial fibrillation, ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation, atrioventricular conduction disorders, mechanical complication, post infarction angina, arterial embolism) and discharge status (alive or deceased). Results: 52.17 % of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction with interatrial block developed heart failure, vs 29.45 % among patients without block with statistical significance (p = 0.03). The relationship between the occurrence or not of complications (as well as the state at discharge) and the presence or not of blockade was highly significant (p=0.01). Conclusions: the detailed analysis, in this context, of the p wave of the electrocardiogram should be routine, since the documentation of interatrial block could be related to the clinical course of the patients.

Dolor torácico agudo en pacientes jóvenes: reporte de dos casos / Acute chest pain in young patients: report of two cases

Se presentan dos casos clínicos de pacientes jóvenes con dolor torácico agudo, en ellos, el enfoque multidisciplinario y la resonancia magnética cardíaca jugaron un papel crucial en el diagnóstico y tratamiento. Presentación del caso 1. Un paciente de 20 años con dolor precordial y palpitaciones que mostró elevación de los niveles de enzimas cardíacas en los exámenes de laboratorio. La angiografía coronaria no reveló estenosis significativas. Sin embargo, se confirmó el diagnóstico de miocarditis a través de la resonancia magnética cardíaca, lo que llevó al inicio del tratamiento con medicamentos para lograr una función cardíaca adecuada y la prevención del progreso de la enfermedad. Su evolución clínica fue favorable. Presentación del caso 2. Un paciente de 19 años que presentó un dolor torácico intenso que se irradiaba al brazo izquierdo y mandíbula. Los exámenes de laboratorio reportaron elevación de los niveles de troponinas, que generaron la sospecha de un síndrome coronario agudo. La resonancia magnética cardíaca confirmó el diagnóstico de un infarto agudo de miocardio, y la angiografía coronaria reveló una estenosis significativa en la arteria descendente anterior y una ectasia subsiguiente. Durante la hospitalización, se brindó un enfoque terapéutico integral con la administración de medicamentos, monitoreo, control del dolor y prevención de complicaciones, y el paciente mostró una evolución clínica favorable

Two clinical cases of young patients with acute chest pain are presented, where the multidisciplinary approach and cardiac magnetic resonance played a crucial role in diagnosis and treatment. Case presentation 1. A 20 year old patient with precordial pain and palpitations showed elevated cardiac enzyme levels on laboratory examination. Coronary angiography revealed no significant stenosis. However, the diagnosis of myocarditis was confirmed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, which led to the initiation of drug treatment to achieve adequate cardiac function and prevention of disease progression. His clinical evolution was favorable. Case presentation 2. 19 year old patient presented with severe chest pain radiating to the left arm and jaw. Laboratory tests reported elevated troponin levels, which raised the suspicion of acute coronary syndrome. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction, and coronary angiography revealed significant stenosis in the anterior descending artery and subsequent ectasia. During hospitalization, a comprehensive therapeutic approach with medication administration, monitoring, pain control, and prevention of complications was provided, and the patient showed a favorable clinical evolution

Predictors of Bleeding after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Background: Acute coronary syndrome patient outcomes have been improved using early invasive techniques. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence, location, and severity of bleeding in PCI-treated cases to identify patient risk profiles and increased bleeding occurrences. Methods: This prospective observational study evaluated percutaneous coronary angiography in 80 patients with hypertension and diabetes mellitus who planned to undergo primary or elective PCI. The cases were separated into 2 groups; those who reported bleeding (n=11) and those who did not (n=69). All patients underwent physical examination, laboratory evaluation, 12-lead electrocardiography, and PCI. Results: In univariate regression analysis, age (OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 1.009 – 1.192), female gender (OR: 4.32, 95% CI: 1.157 – 16.131), history of peripheral arterial disease (OR: 7.31, 95% CI: 1.585 – 33.742), and femoral site of vascular access (OR: 9.6, 95% CI: 2.263 – 40.721) were independent predictors of major bleeding after PCI. In multivariate regression analysis, age (OR: 1.12, 95% CI:1.014 – 1.269), female gender (OR: 13.75, 95% CI: 1.983 – 161.2), history of peripheral arterial disease (OR: 43.38, 95% CI: 3.754 - 1042) and femoral site of vascular access (OR: 13.29, 95% CI: 2.233 – 128.5) were independent predictors of major bleeding after PCI. Conclusions: Patients who reported bleeding after PCI had a significantly higher age, prevalence of female sex, serum creatinine, and transfemoral intervention before and after intervention compared to patients who did not report bleeding, while haemoglobin and transradial intervention before and after intervention were significantly lower in the bleeding cases than in the non-bleeding cases.

Análisis de la adherencia a medio plazo tras la realización de un programa de rehabilitación cardiaca / Analysis of medium-term adherence after the implementation of a cardiac rehabilitation program

Resumen Objetivo: Los programas de rehabilitación cardiaca (PRC) son una excelente herramienta para lograr adherencia al cumplimiento terapéutico. El objetivo fue analizar la adherencia a medio plazo e identificar predictores de mala adherencia al cumplimiento farmacológico y a los cambios en el estilo de vida. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de 100 pacientes remitidos a un PRC en 2018 tras un síndrome coronario agudo (SCA). En la revisión al año se analizó la adherencia a la dieta, al ejercicio físico y la deshabituación tabáquica. Se consideró adherencia óptima si se cumplían los tres ítems. Se estudió el cumplimiento farmacológico empleando el test de Morisky-Green. Se analizaron los predictores de mala adherencia mediante análisis de regresión lineal/logística. Resultados: El 98% de los pacientes presentaron adherencia aceptable a la dieta mediterránea, el 83% buena adherencia al ejercicio físico y el 79% de los fumadores consiguieron dejar de fumar. Respecto a la adherencia farmacológica, el 97% de los pacientes la cumplió de forma correcta. En conjunto consiguieron una adherencia óptima el 68% de los pacientes. La nacionalidad de Europa del este, el sedentarismo y los programas no presenciales fueron predictores de mala adherencia. Los pacientes más jóvenes y la profesión de «cuello azul¼ mostraron tendencia a mala adherencia, aunque no de forma significativa. Conclusiones: En nuestro entorno existe una buena adherencia a los cambios de estilo de vida y al cumplimiento farmacológico en pacientes que tras un SCA completan un PRC. La nacionalidad Europea del este, el sedentarismo y los programas no presenciales se asociaron con mala adherencia.

Abstract Objectives: Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs (CRP) are an excellent tool to achieve adherence to therapeutic. The aim of our study was analyzing at the medium-term adherence, as well as identifying low adherence predictors to pharmacological therapeutic compliance and changes in lifestyle. Methods: Retrospective study of 100 patients referred to a CRP in 2018 after presenting ACS. At the one-year review adherence to diet, physical exercise, and smoking cessation were analyzed. Optimal adherence was considered if all three items were met. Compliance with taking medication was also studied using the Morisky-Green test. Finally, low adherence predictors were analyzed by lineal/logistic regression analysis. Results: 98% of the patients presented acceptable adherence to the Mediterranean diet, 83% good adherence to physical exercise, and 79% of the smokers achieved the cessation of smoking. Regarding drug adherence, 97% of the patients complied correctly. 68% of the patients achieved good overall adherence. Eastern European nationality, sedentary lifestyle, and home-based CRP were predictors of low adherence. The youngest patients and the "blue collar" occupation showed a tendency to poor adherence, although not significantly. Conclusions: In our environment there is good medium-term adherence to lifestyle changes and pharmacological compliance in patients who complete CRP after ACS. Eastern European nationality, sedentary lifestyle, and home-based programs were associated with poor adherence.

Características clínicas del síndrome de takotsubo: una serie de casos / Clinical characteristics of takotsubo syndrome: a series of cases

Resumen Introducción: El síndrome de takotsubo (STT) es una entidad de reciente reconocimiento que asemeja un síndrome coronario agudo. Su epidemiologia ha sido estudiada en diversas poblaciones del mundo. El desencadenante más frecuente es un evento estresante emocional. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas de una serie de casos con STT. Material y métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se evaluaron las variables de edad, sexo, características clínicas, factores de riesgo cardiovascular, factores desencadenantes, biomarcadores, hallazgos electrocardiográficos, ecocardiográficos y angiográficos en los expedientes clínicos de un grupo de casos de pacientes con STT. Resultados: Se incluyeron 19 casos de STT. Fueron 16 mujeres y 3 hombres, promedio de edad 62 ± 14 años; el principal factor de riesgo cardiovascular fue el sedentarismo, en 13 casos. El desencadenante emocional estuvo presente en la mayoría de los casos. El síntoma más frecuente fue el dolor torácico, ocho casos presentaron datos de choque e insuficiencia cardiaca. La variante más común por ecocardiograma fue el balonamiento apical en un 79%, al igual que por ventriculografía. La complicación más común fue choque cardiogénico. Conclusiones: Las características clínicas de nuestra población son similares a las descritas previamente en la literatura. El STT es una miocardiopatía transitoria y reversible con buen pronóstico.

Abstract Introduction: takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is a recently recognized entity that resembles an acute coronary syndrome. Its epidemiology has been studied in various populations around the world. The most frequent trigger is an emotional stressful event. Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics of a series of cases with TTS. Material and methods: A descriptive and retrospective study was carried out. The variables of age, gender, clinical characteristics, cardiovascular risk factors, triggering factors, biomarkers, electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and angiographic findings in the clinical records of a group of cases of patients with TTS were evaluated. Results: 19 cases of TTS were included. There were 16 women and 3 men, the average age was 62 ± 14 years; the main cardiovascular risk factor was sedentary lifestyle in 13 cases. The emotional trigger was present in most cases. The most frequent symptom was chest pain, eight cases presented data of shoCKP and heart failure. The most common variant by echocardiography was apical ballooning in 79%, as well as by ventriculography. The most common complication was cardiogenic shoCKP. Conclusions: The clinical characteristics of our population are like those previously described in the literature. TTS is a transient and reversible cardiomyopathy with a good prognosis.

Performance Measures in STEMI after COVID-19 Pandemic: Results from the RECUIMA Registry

Abstract Background To offer proper medical care to patients with ST-segment Elevation Acute Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) in low- and middle-income settings (LMIS) is challenging. However, it is not known if performance indicators have changed back after the epidemiological recovery. Objective to describe performance measures (PM) in patients with STEMI during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Observational study of patients with STEMI, from an LMIS, with analysis of PM suggested in the 2017 AHA-ACC Performance Measures for Adults with STEMI. COVID-19 period was determined from January 2020 to October 2021, and from November 2021 to February 2022 as the post-COVID-19 period. Baseline characteristics, treatments and selected PM were compared using the χ2 test or Mann-Whitney U test. All tests were two-sided, and statistical significance was considered as p-value <0.05. Coronary interventionism-related PM were not reported. Results Administration of thrombolysis decreased (71.2% vs 51.6% (p: 0.001)), while the delay time for its administration (Median (Interquartile Range)) increased considerably (30 min (16-60) to 45 min (35- 60) (p: 0.003)). Aspirin at admission was administered in each period at 92.9% vs 94.2% (p: 0.62); and at discharge to 97.8% vs 98.9% (p: 0.48). Beta-blockers, P2Y12 inhibitors, statins, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors in patients with heart failure were administered to 67.1% vs 85.1% (p: 0.01), 96.4% vs 84% (p: 0.001), 96.2 % vs 95.7% (p: 1), and 81.2% vs 94.3% (p: 0.14), respectively. Conclusion Despite this being a current period of epidemiological recovery, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to negatively impact the care of patients with STEMI.

Factores de riesgo relacionados con la evolución intrahospitalaria de pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo con elevación del segmento ST

Fundamento: el síndrome coronario agudo con elevación del segmento ST es uno de los principales motivos de consulta e ingresos en servicios de urgencia. Su curso clínico y pronóstico pueden modificarse por diversos factores. Objetivo: analizar los factores de riesgo relacionados con la evolución intrahospitalaria de los pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo con elevación del segmento ST ingresados en la sala de cuidados intensivos coronarios del Instituto de Cardiología y Cirugía Cardiovascular. Métodos: se realizó un estudio analítico de tipo transversal que incluyó 99 pacientes que con diagnóstico de SCACEST ingresaron en la unidad de cuidados coronarios del Instituto de Cardiología y Cirugía cardiovascular, desde junio del 2018 a junio del 2019. Se recogieron las variables sociodemográficas, clínicas y angiográficas Las variables de respuesta fueron las complicaciones y la muerte de causa cardiovascular ocurrida durante el ingreso hospitalario. Se analizó la distribución de frecuencias, se realizó la prueba de Chi Cuadrado y se emplearon las diferencias de medias para muestras independientes. Resultados: predominaron los pacientes mayores de 60 años, con una edad media de 63 años y el sexo masculino. La hipertensión arterial fue el factor de riesgo más frecuente, seguido del tabaquismo. Se constató que la clasificación de Killip Kimball III-IV tuvo una fuerte asociación con una evolución desfavorable con un OR de 41,50 (p=0,000), seguido del infarto agudo de miocardio previo OR de 3,25 (p=0,03). Conclusiones: la clasificación de Killip Kimball II-IV, la escala Grace de riesgo moderado a alto, y los valores de creatinina tuvieron una mayor asociación con la evolución intrahospitalaria desfavorable.

Background: acute coronary syndrome with ST segment elevation is one of the main reasons for consultation and admissions to emergency services. Its clinical course and prognosis can be modified by various factors. Objective: to analyze the risk factors related to the in-hospital evolution of patients with ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome admitted to the coronary intensive care unit of the Institute of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery. Methods: a cross-sectional analytical study was carried out that included 99 patients with a diagnosis of STEACS admitted to the coronary care unit of the Institute of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, from June 2018 to June 2019. Sociodemographic variables were collected, clinical and angiographic. The response variables were complications and death from cardiovascular causes that occurred during hospital admission. The frequency distribution was analyzed, the Chi Square test was performed and the mean differences for independent samples were used. Results: patients older than 60 years predominated, with a mean age of 63 years and the male sex. Arterial hypertension was the most frequent risk factor, followed by smoking. It was found that the Killip Kimball III-IV classification had a strong association with an unfavorable evolution with an OR of 41.50 (p=0.000), followed by previous acute myocardial infarction OR of 3.25 (p=0.03). Conclusions: the Killip Kimball II-IV classification, the Grace scale of moderate to high risk, and creatinine values ​​had a greater association with unfavorable in-hospital evolution.