El papel de la Ivabradina y la titulación de los betabloqueadores en la insuficiencia cardíaca: una serie de casos y revisión de la literatura / The role of Ivabradine and beta-blocker titration in heart failure: a case series and literature review

RESUMEN Introducción y objetivos : La insuficiencia cardíaca (IC) es una preocupación creciente de salud pública. Si bien los betabloqueantes (BB) son la base del tratamiento, lograr reducciones objetivo de frecuencia cardíaca puede ser difícil debido a los efectos secundarios y la tolerancia limitada. La ivabradina, un inhibidor único de la corriente If, ofrece un enfoque complementario para controlar la frecuencia cardíaca sin afectar la contractilidad. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la eficacia de agregar ivabradina a la terapia BB en pacientes con IC. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional retrospectivo en un hospital privado en San José, Costa Rica se analizaron 7 casos de pacientes tratados con BB a los cuales posteriormente se les adicionó ivabradina. Se recopilaron datos demo- gráficos, las características clínicas, la frecuencia cardíaca previa y posterior a la ivabradina, la clase funcional NYHA y los valores de laboratorio seleccionados. Resultados: La ivabradina redujo significativamente la frecuencia cardíaca en reposo en un promedio de 26,87 latidos por minuto. El 42,86% alcanzó la dosis meta de su BB inicial después de agregar ivabradina. La clase funcional NYHA se mantuvo estable o mejoró en todos los casos. Conclusiones: Estos resultados sugieren que agregar ivabradina a la terapia BB puede ser una estrategia eficaz para optimizar el control de la frecuencia cardíaca en pacientes con IC. Este enfoque puede mejorar la tolerabilidad de BB, lo que lleva a un mayor manejo de la dosis meta y posiblemente mejores resultados clínicos.

ABSTRACT Introduction and objectives: Heart failure (HF) is a growing public health concern. While beta-blockers (BBs) are the cornerstone of treatment, achieving target heart rate reductions can be difficult due to side effects and limited tolerance. Ivabradine, a unique inhibitor of the If current, offers a complementary approach to controlling heart rate without affecting contractility. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of adding ivabradine to BB therapy in patients with HF. Methods : A retrospective observational study was conducted at a private hospital in San José, Costa Rica. Seven cases of patients treated with BBs who were subsequently added to ivabradine were analyzed. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, heart rate before and after ivabradine, NYHA functional class, and selected laboratory values were collected. Results : Ivabradine significantly reduced resting heart rate by an average of 26.87 beats per minute. Forty-two-point eight-six percent (42.86%) achieved the target dose of their initial BB after adding ivabradine. NYHA functional class remained stable or improved in all cases. Conclusions: These results suggest that adding ivabradine to BB therapy may be an effective strategy to optimize heart rate control in patients with HF. This approach may improve BB tolerability, leading to greater target dose management and possibly better clinical outcomes.

Síndrome cardiorrenal: diagnóstico y tratamiento / Cardiorenal syndrome: diagnosis and treatment

Introducción: Las enfermedades cardíacas y renales coexisten con frecuencia. El síndrome cardiorrenal es una entidad compleja; en ella, la disfunción primaria cardíaca produce daño renal (tipos 1 y 2) y viceversa (tipos 3 y 4) o efecto de una enfermedad sistémica que afecta a ambos órganos (tipo 5). Objetivo: Actualizar el diagnóstico y tratamiento de los pacientes con síndrome cardiorrenal. Métodos: Se utilizan métodos teóricos y empíricos para realizar análisis del conocimiento actualizado sobre el tema. Se ha definido la existencia de un síndrome cardiorrenal que compromete a ambos órganos, con interacción bidireccional. En su detección, el diagnóstico clínico es insuficiente y requiere marcadores bioquímicos; estas herramientas, junto con la medición del sodio urinario, permite vigilar la efectividad terapéutica. Otro recurso es la ultrafiltración, según complicaciones. Conclusiones: Se debe indicar tratamiento con base en la evidencia para mejorar la calidad de vida, reducir la mortalidad y retrasar el deterioro de la función renal y cardíaca a largo plazo; el trasplante renal se debe considerar en pacientes en diálisis con disfunción ventricular severa. Idealmente, deberían recibir un trasplante combinado: cardíaco y renal, lo cual es difícil; algunos pacientes sometidos exclusivamente a trasplante renal presentan una mejoría notable en su fracción de eyección y en la sobrevida.

Introduction: heart and kidney diseases frequently coexist. Cardiorenal syndrome is a complex entity in which primary cardiac dysfunction causes a kidney damage (types 1 and 2) and vice versa (types 3 and 4) or an effect of a systemic disease that affects both organs (type 5). Objective: to update the diagnosis and treatment of patients with cardiorenal syndrome. Methods: theoretical and empirical methods are used to carry out the analysis of updated knowledge on the subject. The existence of a cardiorenal syndrome that compromises both organs has been defined with bidirectional interaction. In its detection, clinical diagnosis is insufficient and requires biochemical markers; these tools, together with the measurement of urinary sodium, allow us to monitor therapeutic effectiveness. Another resource is ultrafiltration, according to complications. Conclusions: evidence-based treatment should be indicated to improve quality of life, reduce mortality, and delay the deterioration of renal and cardiac function in the long term; kidney transplantation should be considered in dialysis patients with severe ventricular dysfunction. Ideally, they should receive a combined transplant: heart and kidney, which is difficult; some patients undergoing exclusively a renal transplantation show a notable improvement in their ejection fraction and survival.

Uso de carboximaltose férrica no tratamento de deficiência de ferro em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca na perspectiva da saúde suplementar: análise de custo-efetividade e impacto orçamentário / Ferric carboxymaltose for treatment of iron deficiency in heart failure patients from the supplementary health care system perspective: cost-effectiveness and budgetary impact analysis

Objetivo: Avaliar a relação de custo-efetividade e impacto orçamentário (AIO) do tratamento de deficiência de ferro (DF), com ou sem anemia, em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC) com fração de ejeção reduzida NYHA II e III, com uso de carboximaltose férrica (CMF), comparada ao placebo (não intervenção), sob a perspectiva pagadora da saúde suplementar (SS). Métodos: No modelo econômico, foi utilizada a árvore de decisão, no horizonte temporal de 52 semanas, na perspectiva da SS, sendo mensurados os benefícios clínicos e os custos associados à intervenção. Também foram executadas análises de sensibilidade determinística e probabilística para avaliar possíveis incertezas futuras. A elaboração da AIO foi realizada considerando o horizonte temporal de cinco anos, a população a ser tratada, os diferentes cenários de market share e os custos diretos envolvidos no tratamento atual e no tratamento proposto. Resultados: A razão de custo-efetividade incremental (RCEI) foi de -R$ 20.517,07 para um ano de vida ajustado pela qualidade (QALYs). O impacto da incorporação da CMF na SS gerou uma economia em cinco anos de -R$ 43.945.225. Conclusões: A análise apresentada mostrou que o tratamento com CMF reduziu o custo de hospitalização, o número de consultas ambulatoriais e o custo de outros medicamentos relacionados à IC e proporcionou uma economia anual. Considerando um horizonte de tempo de 52 semanas, a terapia intravenosa com CMF resultou em uma estratégia de redução de custos, quando comparada ao tratamento proposto para a DF em pacientes com IC.

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and budget impact (AIO) of iron carboxymaltose (CMF) for treatment of iron deficiency (ID), with or without anemia, in patients with heart failure (HF) and reduced ejection fraction NYHA II and III compared to placebo (non-intervention), from the perspective of paying supplementary health (SS). Methods: In the economic model, the decision tree was used, with a time horizon of 52 weeks, from the SS perspective, measuring the clinical benefits and costs associated with the intervention. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyzes were also performed to assess possible future uncertainties. The elaboration of the AIO was carried out considering a time horizon of five years, population to be treated, different market share scenarios and direct costs involved in the current treatment and in the proposed treatment. Results: The incremental cost effectiveness ratio (ICER) was -R$ 20,517.07 for 1 quality-adjusted life year (QALY). The budget impact of incorporation of the CMF in SSprovided savings in five years of -R$ 43,945,225. Conclusions: The presented analysis showed that treatment with CMF reduced the cost of hospitalization, the number of outpatient visits and the cost of other HF-related medications and provided annual savings. Considering a time horizon of 52 weeks, intravenous therapy with CMF resulted in a cost-saving strategy when compared to the proposed treatment for DF in patients with HF.

La cardio-oncología como una visión multidisciplinaria en el enfoque y tratamiento de la patología oncológica contemporánea / Cardio-oncology as a multidisciplinary vision in approaching and treating contemporary oncological pathology

Introducción: Las enfermedades cardiovasculares son la principal causa de muerte en el mundo, y las enfermedades oncológicas están aumentando en prevalencia. Los medicamentos oncológicos pueden tener efectos secundarios cardiovasculares, y la cardiooncología es una subespecialidad de la cardiología que se ocupa de la prevención y el tratamiento de las complicaciones cardiovasculares relacionadas con el cáncer. Puntos importantes del editorial: Las antraciclinas son un grupo de medicamentos oncológicos que pueden causar cardiotoxicidad, lo que puede causar una variedad de síntomas, incluyendo fatiga, disnea, edema y dolor en torácico. En casos graves, la cardiotoxicidad puede provocar insuficiencia cardíaca. Otros medicamentos oncológicos que pueden causar cardiotoxicidad incluyen los anticuerpos anti-HER2, el fluorouracilo y la gemcitabina. Los inhibidores de la tirosinkinasa y los inhibidores del factor de crecimiento derivado del endotelio también pueden causar problemas cardiovasculares, como hipertensión, formación de coágulos sanguíneos y arritmia. Los pacientes con cáncer también tienen un mayor riesgo de desarrollar complicaciones tromboembólicas venosas en miembros inferiores. Conclusión: El diagnóstico temprano y el tratamiento de las complicaciones cardiovasculares relacionadas con el cáncer son esenciales para mejorar la supervivencia de los pacientes con cáncer. La cardiooncología es una especialidad emergente y multidisciplinaria que requiere la participación de oncólogos, hematólogos, radiooncólogos y cardiólogos. El equipo de cardiooncología trabaja en conjunto para evaluar el riesgo cardiovascular de los pacientes con cáncer, prevenir las complicaciones cardiovasculares y tratar las complicaciones cardiovasculares que ocurren.

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are the main cause of death in the world, and oncological diseases are increasing in prevalence. Cancer drugs can have cardiovascular side effects, and cardio-oncology is a subspecialty of cardiology concerned with preventing and treating cardiovascular complications related to cancer. Important points from the editorial: Anthracyclines are a group of cancer drugs that can cause cardiotoxicity, which can cause various symptoms, including fatigue, dyspnea, edema, and chest pain. In severe cases, cardiotoxicity can lead to heart failure. Other cancer drugs that can cause cardiotoxicity include anti-HER2 antibodies, fluorouracil, and gemcitabine. Tyrosine kinase and endothelium-derived growth factor inhibitors can also cause cardiovascular problems, such as high blood pressure, blood clot formation, and arrhythmia. Cancer patients are also at increased risk of developing lower limb venous thromboembolic complications. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and treatment of cancer-related cardiovascular complications are essential to improve the survival of cancer patients. Cardio-oncology is an emerging, multidisciplinary specialty that requires the participation of oncologists, hematologists, radiation oncologists, and cardiologists. The cardio-oncology team works together to assess cardiovascular risk in cancer patients, prevent cardiovascular complications, and treat cardiovascular complications that do occur.

Caracterización y evaluación de adherencia al programa Get With The Guidelines en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca aguda en un hospital de Bogotá, 2016-2018: Cohorte HUN-ICA / Characterization and evaluation of adherence to the Get With The Guidelines-Heart Failure program in patients with acute heart failure in a hospital in Bogotá, 2016-2018: HUN-ICA cohort

Introducción: la adherencia a estándares de manejo en insuficiencia cardiaca como la iniciativa Get With the Guidelines (GWTG) de la AHA puede disminuir los reingresos y mortalidad. Objetivo: describir las características clínicas de pacientes hospitalizados por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda y evaluar la adherencia a estándares de práctica clínica del programa "Get With The Guidelines", en un hospital universitario de Bogotá. Materiales y métodos: estudio observacional de la cohorte retrospectiva HUN-ICA correspondiente a 493 pacientes adultos hospitalizados entre abril 2016 y diciembre 2018 por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda, se registraron variables clínicas, tratamiento, mortalidad, reingresos y se evaluó adherencia a estándares de calidad del programa GWTG. Resultados: 52,1 % de la población fueron mujeres con una media de edad 75 años y el 67,8 % con FEVI >40 %. La etiología más común fue hipertensiva 58,5 % y la mayor causa de descompensación infecciosa (28,8 %). Aumentó la adherencia al uso de betabloqueadores en pacientes con fracción de eyección reducida al egreso de 46 % respecto al ingreso y al uso de antagonistas de receptor mineralocorticoide en pacientes con FEVI reducida de 61,1 %. Discusión: la cohorte evaluada presentó un perfil hemodinámico, clínico y adherencia en el manejo similar a cohortes nacionales. Las dosis subóptimas de la medicación al egreso justifican la necesidad de clínicas ambulatorias de insuficiencia cardíaca. Conclusiones: Se encontró menor adherencia para uso y dosis óptimas de betabloqueadores y antagonista mineralocorticoide que la de la cohorte GWTG, con incremento del uso de terapia farmacológica entre el ingreso y el egreso hospitalario.

Introduction: adherence to management standards in heart failure such as the AHA´s Get With the Guidelines-Heart failure initiative can reduce readmissions and mortality. Objective: To describe the clinical characteristics of patients hospitalized for acute heart failure and to assess adherence to program quality standards of the Get With The Guidelines Program in a university hospital in Bogotá. Methods: observational, descriptive and retrospective HUN-ICA cohort study. 493 adult patients hospitalized for acute heart failure, between April 2016 to December 2018. Clinical variables, treatment, mortality, readmissions and adherence to program quality standards defined by the GWTG program criteria were evaluated. Results: 52,1 % of the population were women, mean age was 75 years, (67,8 %) cases of heart failure with LVEF > 40 %. The most common etiology of heart failure was hypertensive (58,5 %). The most frequent etiology of decompen- sation was infectious (28,8 %). Adherence to beta-blockers use increased in patients with reduced ejection fraction at discharge of 46 %, and to the use of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists in 61,1 %, compared to admission. Discussion: the evaluated cohort presented a hemodynamic, clinical profile and adherence similar to colombian cohorts. Suboptimal doses of medication upon discharge justify the need for outpatient heart failure clinics. Conclusions: lower adherence for use and optimal doses of beta-blockers and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists than GWTG cohort was found, with increased use of guidelines recommended pharmacological therapy between hospital admission and discharge.

La Insuficiencia Cardíaca Aguda como Manifestación de la Tirotoxicosis. A Propósito de un Caso / Acute heart failure as a manifestation of thyrotoxicosis. A case report

Introducción: La tirotoxicosis se considera una emergencia endocrinológica. Suele ser la complicación más grave y menos frecuente de una patología relativamente frecuente como es el hipertiroidismo. Tiene afectación a nivel sistémico, con especial hincapié en el sistema cardiovascular, por lo que una de las manifestaciones prevalentes y a considerar en este trabajo, es la insuficiencia cardiaca aguda. Caso clínico: Paciente femenina de 40 años con antecedente de tabaquismo e hipertiroidismo, con abandono de medicación (Metimazol) y de controles en contexto de pandemia. Consultó en reiteradas ocasiones por evento sincopal asociado a palpitaciones, agregando en esta consulta episodio tos con expectoración hemoptoica y náuseas. Laboratorio con TSH<0.01mU/L y T4 7.77pmol/L. Troponinas 19.3ng/L. Evolucionó con hipotensión sin respuesta a cristaloides y mayor disnea. Se decidió intubación orotraqueal. Se realizó ecocardiograma que informaba función sistólica con deterioro severo. Realizó tratamiento con Metimazol y solución de Lugol con mejoría de los parámetros de laboratorio. A los diez días evolucionó con abdomen agudo perforado con posterior shock séptico refractario y falleció. Discusión y conclusiones: Luego de examinar la bibliografía disponible, y contrastarla de forma retrospectiva con la evolución de la paciente, se puede observar la relación entre el hipertiroidismo y los cambios hemodinámicos. En el caso presentado, la paciente tuvo como antecedente el diagnóstico de hipertiroidismo y se consideró que el factor desencadenante fue la suspensión del metimazol; a su vez, la insuficiencia cardíaca aguda que presentó durante los primeros días de internación fue consecuencia del efecto cardiovascular directo de las hormonas tiroideas.

Introduction: Thyrotoxicosis is considered an endocrinological emergency; It is usually the most serious and least frequent complication of a relatively frequent pathology such as hyperthyroidism. It has systemic involvement, with special emphasis on the cardiovascular system, which is why one of the most prevalent manifestations to be considered in this work is acute heart failure. Clinical case: A 40-year-old female patient with a history of smoking and hyperthyroidism, with abandonment of medication (Methimazole) and controls in the context of a pandemic. She consulted repeatedly due to a syncopal event associated with palpitations, adding to this consultation an episode of coughing with bloody sputum and nausea. Laboratory with TSH <0.01mU/L and T4 7.77pmol/L. Troponins 19.3ng/L. He evolved with hypotension without response to crystalloids and increased dyspnea. Orotracheal intubation was decided. An echocardiogram was performed, which reported severely impaired systolic function. She underwent treatment with Methimazole and Lugol's solution with improvement in laboratory parameters. Ten days later, he developed an acute perforated abdomen with subsequent refractory septic shock and died. Discusion. Conclusion: After examining the available bibliography, and contrasting it retrospectively with the evolution of the patient, the relationship between hyperthyroidism and hemodynamic changes can be observed. In the case presented, the patient had a history of a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism, and it was considered that the triggering factor was the suspension of methimazole; In turn, the acute heart failure that she presented during the first days of hospitalization was a consequence of the direct cardiovascular effect of thyroid hormones.

Intervención de la telemedicina en pacientes peruanos con insuficiencia cardíaca en tiempos de COVID-19 / Telemedicine Intervention in Peruvian Patients with Heart Failure in Times of COVID-19

Introducción: La insuficiencia cardíaca tiene un gran impacto epidemiológico, no solo por su alta morbilidad y mortalidad, sino también por el alto costo en servicios hospitalarios. Las tasas de hospitalización por reagudizaciones y readmisiones luego del alta se han incrementado los últimos años, lo que constituye en la actualidad un problema de salud pública. Objetivo: Evaluar el efecto de la intervención de la telemedicina en pacientes peruanos con insuficiencia cardíaca en tiempos de COVID-19. Métodos: Se utilizó un diseño cuasi experimental con evaluación antes y después de la intervención en 32 pacientes provenientes de Chimbote (Perú), entre los meses de enero a junio del 2021, que aceptaron participar en el estudio y cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Se utilizó una ficha de recolección de datos que registró las características clínicas de los pacientes, frecuencia de hospitalización y clase funcional, así como el cuestionario de Kansas City que midió la calidad de vida relacionada a salud. En la intervención, se implementaron actividades de telemedicina que comprendió teleconsulta médica de cardiología, telemonitoreo y teleorientación de enfermería, y teleorientación de nutrición. Resultados: Se redujo la frecuencia de hospitalización de 9,4 por ciento a 0 por ciento en los pacientes categorizados en clase funcional III disminuyó de 28,1 por ciento a 15,6 por ciento, y el score general se mejoró de 65,8 a 69,6 puntos. Conclusiones: La intervención de la telemedicina mejoró los resultados sanitarios de los pacientes peruanos con insuficiencia cardíaca(AU)

Introduction: Heart failure has a great epidemiological impact, not only because of its high morbidity and mortality, but also because of the high cost in hospital services. Hospitalization rates for exacerbations and readmissions after discharge have increased in recent years, which is currently a public health problem. Objective: To evaluate the effect of telemedicine intervention in Peruvian patients with heart failure in COVID-19 times. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was used with evaluation before and after the intervention in 32 patients from Chimbote (Peru), between January and June 2021, who agreed to participate in the study and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A data collection form was used to record the clinical characteristics of the patients, frequency of hospitalization and functional class, as well as the Kansas City questionnaire that measured health-related quality of life. Telemedicine activities were implemented in the intervention, including cardiology medical teleconsultation, telemonitoring and nursing tele-guidance, and nutrition tele-guidance. Results: The frequency of hospitalization was reduced from 9.4 to 0 percent, while in patients categorized in functional class III it decreased from 28.1 to 15.6 percent. The overall score was improved from 65.8 to 69.6 points. Conclusions: The telemedicine intervention improved health outcomes in Peruvian patients with heart failure(AU)

Sarcopenia em pacientes de 40 a 64 anos hospitalizados por insuficiência cardíaca / Sarcopenia in patients aged 40­64 years hospitalized for heart failure

Introdução: a insuficiência cardíaca (IC) e a sarcopenia são condições prevalentes e inter-relacionadas, figurando como importantes causas de limitações funcionais. Objetivo: avaliar critérios de sarcopenia, e suas relações com parâmetros cardiometabólicos, em pacientes de 40 a 64 anos hospitalizados por IC. Metodologia: estudo de corte transversal com caráter analítico envolvendo indivíduos com IC confirmada. A massa muscular apendicular (MMA) foi avaliada através da absorciometria por raios-X de dupla energia (DXA), considerando-se baixa MMA mulheres com MMA/altura² <5,5 kg/m² ou MMA/índice de massa corporal (IMC) <0,512 e homens com MMA/altura² <7,0 kg/m² ou MMA/IMC <0,789. Baixa força de preensão manual (FPM) foi considerada quando <16 kg em mulheres e <27 kg em homens. Resultados: avaliou-se 109 pacientes (50,5% mulheres), com mediana de idade de 58 anos. Constatou-se baixa MMA em 41,3% e baixa FPM em 64,2%, não havendo correlação significativa entre FPM e MMA em nenhum dos gêneros. Baixa MMA se associou ao gênero masculino (68,9% versus 35,9%; p=0,001), a maiores idades (60,0 [53,0-63,0] versus 57,0 [51,3-60,0] anos; p=0,039) e maiores níveis séricos de paratormônio (48,0 [30,5-94,4] versus 29,9 [23,0-54,1] pg/mL; p=0,009). Baixa FPM se associou a maior sintomatologia cardíaca (75,7% com baixa FPM tinham classificação funcional da New York Heart Association III-IV, versus 51,3% daqueles com FPM normal; p=0,009). Conclusões: há uma relevante prevalência de sarcopenia em pacientes de 40 a 64 anos hospitalizados por IC, observando-se maior frequência de baixa MMA nos homens, associação entre baixa FPM e sintomatologia cardíaca, e maiores níveis de paratormônio naqueles com perda muscular.

Introduction: heart failure (HF) and sarcopenia are prevalent and interrelated conditions, being important causes of functional limitations. Objective: to evaluate sarcopenia criteria, and their relationship with cardiometabolic parameters, in patients aged 40­64 years hospitalized for HF. Methodology: Cross-sectional study including patients with established HF. Appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASMM) was assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), considering low ASMM women with ASMM/height² <5.5 kg/m² or ASMM/body mass index (BMI) <0.512 and men with ASMM/height² <7.0 kg/m² or ASMM/BMI <0.789. Low handgrip strength (HGS) was considered when <16 kg in women and <27 kg in men. Results: we evaluated 109 patients (50.5% women), with a median age of 58 years. Low ASMM was found in 41.3% and low HGS in 64.2%, with no significant correlation between HGS and ASMM in either gender. Low ASMM was associated with male gender (68.9% versus 35.9%; p=0.001), older age (60.0 [53.0-63.0] versus 57.0 [51.3-60, 0] years; p=0.039) and higher serum parathyroid hormone (48.0 [30.5-94.4] versus 29.9 [23.0-54.1] pg/mL; p=0.009). Low HGS was associated with greater cardiac symptoms (75.7% with low HGS had a New York Heart Association III-IV functional classification, versus 51.3% of those with normal HGS; p=0.009). Conclusions: there is a relevant prevalence of sarcopenia in patients aged 40­64 years hospitalized for HF, observing a higher frequency of low ASMM in men, an association between low HGS and cardiac symptoms, and higher levels of parathyroid hormone in those with muscle wasting.

Laboratorio de Insuficiencia Cardíaca: experiencia en un hospital universitario / Heart failure laboratory: experience in an university hospital

Introducción: La mayor parte del manejo del paciente con insuficiencia cardíaca (IC) se logra de manera ambulatoria. La adhesión a los estándares de tratamiento recomendados y el acceso al sistema de salud determinan su evolución. Se describe nuestra experiencia en pacientes con IC ambulatoria en un Hospital Universitario. Material y métodos: Se incluyeron pacientes derivados para interconsulta al Laboratorio de IC entre los meses de enero de 2021 y octubre de 2022. Se realizó una intervención estructurada, que incluyó visitas presenciales y seguimiento por email y/o telefónico y asesoramiento nutricional. Resultados: Se incluyeron 98 pacientes. La media de edad fue 64,05 años. El promedio total de FEVI fue 36,26%. Se observó asociación significativa entre los mayores de 60 años (n=65; 66,33%) y dislipemia, hipertensión arterial, enfermedad oncológica y enfermedad coronaria, en comparación con los individuos más jóvenes. La FEVI baja se correlacionó con los portadores de enfermedad coronaria y oncológica. En ellos se observó mayor utilización de betabloqueantes, ARNI, iSGLT2 y ácido acetil salicílico. El sexo masculino, la FEVI disminuida y la edad, fueron predictores de peor pronóstico. Conclusión: La utilización del tratamiento farmacológico en la IC depende de múltiples factores. A pesar de ello, se observó una distribución de la terapéutica instaurada acorde a la recomendación de guía y registros nacionales e internaciones de pacientes con IC

Introduction: Most of the management of the patient with heart failure (HF) is accomplished on an outpatient basis. Adherence to the recommended treatment standards and access to the health system determine their evolution. We describe our experience in patients with ambulatory HF in a University Hospital. Material and methods: Patients referred for interconsultation to the HF Laboratory between the months of January 2021 and October 2022 were included. A structured intervention was carried out, which included face-to-face visits and follow-up by email and/or telephone and nutritional advice. Results: 98 patients were included. Mean age was 64.05 years. Total mean LVEF was 36.26%. A significant association was observed between those over 60 years of age (n=65; 66.33%) and dyslipidemia, arterial hypertension, oncological disease, and coronary disease, compared to younger individuals. The low LVEF was correlated with coronary and oncological disease. In them was observed greater use of beta-blockers, ARNI, iSGLT2 and acetylsalicylic acid. Male sex, decreased LVEF and age were predictors of worse prognosis. Conclusion: The use of pharmacological treatment in HF depends on multiple factors. Despite this, a distribution of the established therapy according to the guideline recommendation and national registries and hospitalizations of patients with HF was observed.

Cumplimiento de los objetivos nutricionales durante el uso de dispositivos de asistencia ventricular / Nutritional objectives in patients with ventricular assist devices

Antecedentes: Los dispositivos de asistencia ventricular (VAD, sigla en inglés) se utilizan cada vez más para el manejo de la insuficiencia cardíaca descompensada en unidades de cuidados intensivos. El manejo nutricional es fundamental para la evolución clínica de estos pacientes. Objetivos: El objetivo fue evaluar en cuánto tiempo se puede alcanzar las necesidades nutricionales, utilizando distintas modalidades de apoyo nutricional, en pacientes que requirieron asistencia con VAD por insuficiencia cardíaca aguda en una clínica privada del país. Métodos: En una clínica privada se efectuó un estudio observacional retrospectivo analizando los datos clínicos relacionados al aporte nutricional de 12 pacientes que requirieron asistencia con VAD. Las vías de aporte nutricional evaluadas fueron la nutrición enteral (NE) y/o nutrición parenteral (NP). Se midió el tiempo de implementación del apoyo nutricional y su efecto se estimó por una valoración nutricional subjetiva y por la medición de indicadores de laboratorio. Además, se vigilaron las complicaciones asociadas al aporte nutricional. Resultados: El estudio incluyó a 12 pacientes. Los objetivos nutricionales se alcanzaron por completo en el 91% de los pacientes (n=11) en 3,7 ± 1 días después de iniciado el apoyo nutricional. En ese momento, 5 pacientes recibían NE exclusiva, 4 pacientes NP complementaria a la NE, 1 paciente NE complementaria a la alimentación oral y 1 paciente con vía oral. Al momento de alcanzar los requerimientos nutricionales ningún paciente tenía NP exclusiva. Conclusión: Concluimos que el apoyo nutricional precoz es factible y seguro en pacientes con VAD. Alcanzar los objetivos nutricionales es posible sin efectos adversos graves. Se necesitan estudios futuros para determinar el beneficio a largo plazo del apoyo nutricional agresivo para pacientes en estado crítico que requieren apoyo hemodinámico.

Background: Ventricular assist devices (VAD) are being used more frequently in patients with severe heart failure. Nutritional support is a critical factor for the outcome in these patients. Aim: to evaluate the time required and mode of nutritional support in patients with severe cardiac dysfunction being treated with VAD. Methods: 12 patients with VAD being treated in an intensive care unit were evaluated to determine the time and mode of support required to achieve adequate nutrition. Enteral and / or parenteral modes of nutritional support were used. The outcomes were evaluated by subjective appreciation, weight measurement and serum levels of albumin, pre-albumin and vitamin D. Results: Adequate nutritional support was achieved in 91% of patients a mean of 3 days after beginning of treatment (SD 1 day). At that time 5 patients were receiving only enteral nutrition, 4 patients enteral and parenteral nutrition, 1 patient enteral nutrition in addition to oral nutrition and 1 patients was receiving only oral nutrition. No patient was receiving only parenteral nutrition. Conclusion: early nutritional support is posible and safe in patients with an VAD. Further studies are needed to evaluate long term benefits of this strategy of nutritional support.

Catéter de arteria pulmonar en shock cardiogénico: novedades acerca de su valor pronóstico y marcadores derivados / Use of pulmonary artery catheter in patiens with cardiogenic shock: an upgrade

El uso del catéter de arteria pulmonar es un método eficaz para la monitorización de los pacientes críticos. Aunque ampliamente utilizado en las Unidades de Cuidados Críticos Cardiológicos, no se ha demostrado en estudios previos el beneficio de su uso. Registros recientes y numerosos en pacientes graves cursando shock cardiogénico muestran un beneficio en términos de mortalidad asociada, sobre todo relacionado con una adecuada interpretación. Además, nuevos parámetros relacionados con insuficiencia ventricular como son el poder cardíaco y el índice de pulsatilidad de arteria pulmonar, así como el conocimiento de las presiones de llenado ventriculares, tanto izquierdas, como derechas, ayudan en la toma de decisiones, las opciones de tratamiento y estimación del pronóstico. Complementando lo anterior, la modernización en la tecnología del catéter de arteria pulmonar permite la medición del gasto cardíaco de forma continua a través de un sistema termodilución integrada. Este sistema también permite la monitorización más precisa del ventrículo derecho por medio de la valoración continua de su fracción de eyección y volumen de fin de diástole. La información obtenida por medio del catéter de arteria pulmonar en shock cardiogénico ha llevado a que su uso comience a ser cada vez más frecuente en unidades de cuidados críticos cardiológicos y que se empleen estos valores por equipos de shock cardiogénico para la toma de decisiones complejas. La evidencia descrita sobre el valor pronóstico relacionada al uso del catéter de arteria pulmonar se resume en esta revisión.

The pulmonary artery catheter is an effective tool for monitoring critically ill patients; however, the evidence showed limited value and a posible increased risk. Recently, numerous registries in critical ill patients in cardiogenic shock have shown a benefit in mortality, especially related to an adequate interpretation of findings. In addition, new parameters related to ventricular failure, such as cardiac power output and pulmonary artery pulsatility index have shown to be useful for a better treatment and estimation of prognosis. Besides, determination of filling pressures (right and/or left side) have an important role in terms of prognosis and management. Advances in pulmonary artery catheter technology allows us to continuously measure cardiac output through an integrated thermodilution system. This system also allows the continuous assessment of right ventricular ejection fraction and end-diastolic volume. The information obtained has led to an increased use of the pulmonary artery catheter monitoring in cardiac Intensive Care Units allowing improvements in treatment and complex decision-making.

Como eu faço avaliação ecocardiográfica de pericardite constritiva / My approach to echocardiographic assessment for constrictive pericarditis

A pericardite constritiva (PC) é uma condição na qual a cicatrização e perda de elasticidade do pericárdio resultam em enchimento ventricular prejudicado, disfunção diastólica e insuficiência cardíaca direita. O diagnóstico dessa patologia é desafiador, sendo frequente a necessidade de técnicas de imagem multimodal, dentre as quais a ecocardiografia representa a modalidade de imagem inicial para a avaliação diagnóstica, além de permitir a diferenciação da PC da cardiomiopatia restritiva (CMR) e outras condições que mimetizam constrição. (AU)

Constrictive pericarditis (CP) is a condition in which scarring and loss of elasticity of the pericardium result in impaired ventricular filling, diastolic dysfunction, and right heart failure. The diagnosis of this pathology is challenging, with frequent need for multimodal imaging techniques, among which echocardiography represents the initial imaging modality for the diagnostic evaluation, in addition to allowing the differentiation of CP from restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) and other conditions that mimic constriction. (AU)

Como eu faço o strain longitudinal do ventrículo direito com softwares automatizados 2D e 3D / My approach to right ventricular longitudinal strain with automated 2D and 3D software

A análise da deformação miocárdica ventricular direita tem surgido como uma ferramenta diagnóstica importante na detecção de disfunção sistólica ventricular direita inicial não detectada pelas técnicas ecocardiográficas convencionais. Além disso, é capaz de trazer informações diagnósticas e prognósticas adicionais aos parâmetros tradicionais de avaliação da função sistólica ventricular direita em diversas patologias. O método ecocardiográfico de escolha para sua avaliação é o strain longitudinal derivado do speckletracking. Ele tem se mostrado mais sensível para pequenas mudanças na função sistólica quando comparado à excursão sistólica do plano do anel tricúspide, estudo da onda s´ ao Doppler tecidual do anel tricúspide e variação da área fracional do ventrículo direito. O avanço da inteligência artificial e a presença de softwares com análise automatizada entram neste cenário visando tornar a aplicabilidade do método mais simples, rápida e com menor variabilidade inter e intraobservador. O objetivo deste artigo de revisão é demonstrar o passo a passo da técnica, desde a otimização e aquisição de imagens até a interpretação dos resultados, com figuras ilustrativas de casos selecionados.(AU)

Right ventricular strain analysis has emerged as an important diagnostic tool in the detection of early right ventricular systolic dysfunction not detected by conventional echocardiography techniques. Furthermore, it is capable of providing additional diagnostic and prognostic information to the traditional parameters for evaluating right ventricular systolic function in various pathologies. The echocardiography method of choice for its assessment is longitudinal strain derived from speckletracking. This method has been shown to be more sensitive for small changes in systolic function when compared to tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, tissue Doppler imaging of the tricuspid annular s' wave, and right ventricular fractional area change. Advances in artificial intelligence and software with automated analysis have been introduced to this scenario with the aim of making the method simpler and quicker to apply, with lower inter- and intra-observer variability. The objective of this review article is to demonstrate the technique step by step, from image optimization and acquisition to interpretation of results, with illustrative figures of selected cases.(AU)

Desenvolvimento e validação de material educacional para pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca / Development and validation of educational material for patients with heart failure / Desarrollo y validación de material educativo para pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca

Objetivo: Desenvolver e validar um folder educativo para uso em pessoas com Insuficiência Cardíaca. Métodos: Estudo metodológico para elaboração de folder educativo e validação por especialistas. Os juízes técnicos foram enfermeiros especialistas em cardiologia, que validaram conteúdo e aparência, e designers gráfico validaram a aparência, estética e a comunicação visual. O Índice de Validade de Conteúdo (IVC) foi calculado, as respostas foram consistentes quando Alfa de Cronbach> 0,60 e o índice de concordância entre avaliadores (IRA) foi calculado. Resultados: Alta concordância entre enfermeiros (IRA = 1), consistência interna quase perfeita (Alfa de Cronbach = 0,84), IVC total e isolado acima de 0,8. A cartilha foi considerada válida. Para os designers gráficos, o IVC geral obteve um valor que garantiu a validade de aparência. Conclusão: A cartilha educativa foi validada pelos juízes e apresenta-se como instrumento para auxiliar no preparo para alta e acompanhamento em longo prazo de pacientes com IC. (AU)

Objective: To develop and validate an educational folder for use in people with Heart Failure. Methods: Study with a methodological approach for the elaboration of an educational folder and validation by experts. Technical specialists were nurses, cardiology specialists, who validated content and appearance; Specialist designers validated appearance, aesthetics and visual communication. The content validity index (IVC) was calculated; responses were consistent when Cronbach's alpha > 0.60 and the inter-rater agreement index (IRA) was calculated. Results: High agreement among nurses (ARI = 1), almost perfect internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.84), total and isolated CVI above 0.8. The booklet was considered valid. For graphic designers, the overall IVC achieved a value that guaranteed appearance validity. Conclusion: The educational booklet was validated by the judges and is presented as an instrument to assist in the preparation for discharge and long-term follow-up of patients with HF. (AU)

Objetivo: Desarrollar y validar una carpeta educativa para su uso en personas con Insuficiencia Cardíaca. Métodos: Estudio con enfoque metodológico para la elaboración de una carpeta educativa y validación por expertos. Los técnicos especialistas fueron enfermeros, especialistas en cardiología, quienes validaron el contenido y la apariencia; Diseñadores especializados validaron apariencia, estética y comunicación visual. Se calculó el índice de validez de contenido (IVC); las respuestas fueron consistentes cuando se calculó el alfa de Cronbach> 0,60 y el índice de acuerdo entre evaluadores. Resultados: Alto acuerdo entre enfermeras (ARI = 1), consistencia interna casi perfecta (alfa de Cronbach = 0,84), IVC total y aislado por encima de 0,8. El folleto se consideró válido. Para los diseñadores gráficos, el IVC general logró un valor que garantizaba la validez de la apariencia. Conclusion: El folleto educativo fue validado por los jueces y se presenta como un instrumento para ayudar en la preparación para el alta y el seguimiento a largo plazo de los pacientes con IC. (AU)

Fibrilación auricular una arritmia y un sindrome / Atrial fibrillation, an arrhythmia and a syndrome

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia and is highly prevalent in elderly patients. It confers a higher risk for ischemic stroke, heart failure and death. The diagnosis and treatment of AF has been extensively studied and remain under constant revision. This article reviews the recent European guidelines and the advances observed with the introduction of direct oral anticoagulants in the last ten years. This new family of drugs has clear benefits in terms of efficacy and safety compared with traditional vitamin K antagonists. Treatment of most common comorbidities in patients with AF such as advanced age, heart failure, diabetes, renal failure, and others are also analyzed. New therapies for AF will be shortly available.

Effect of home-based cardiac rehabilitation for patients with heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Rehabilitación para pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca: una revisión sistemática y metanálisis

SUMMARY: This study is to investigate the effect of home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) on quality of life, functional capacity, and readmission rates in patients with heart failure. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were screened from Cochrane Library, CINAHL, EMBASE, and MEDLINE. The intervention group received a standardized HBCR or a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy that included HBCR. The participants in the control group received CR at a medical center or usual care without CR intervention. The main outcome measurements included quality of life, exercise capacity, mortality and re-hospitalization. This meta-analysis included 20 RCTs, in which 16 studies compared HBCR with usual care, and 4 studies compared HBCR with center-based CR. In comparison with the usual care, HBCR improved the total quality of life score [MD=-5.85, 95 % CI (-9.76, - 1.94), P=0.003, I2=75 %]. Patients with HBCR and usual care were significantly different in VO2max [MD=1.05 mL/kg/min, 95 % CI (0.35, 1.75), P=0.003, I2=46 %]. However, VO2max of patients with HBCR was not significantly different from those with center-based CR [MD=0.08 mL/kg/min, 95 % CI (-1.29, 1.44), P=0.91, I2=0 %]. There was statistically significant difference in the 6-min Walk Distance between usual care and HBCR (for distance [MD=11.84, 95 % CI (7.41, 16.28), P<0.00001, I2=0 %]; and for feet [MD=98.93, 95 % CI (26.79, 171.08), P=0.007, I2=56 %]). However, there was no significant difference in 6-min Walk Distance between patients with HBCR and center-based CR [MD=12.45, 95 % CI (-9.81, 34.72), P=0.27, I2=0 %] , or in anxiety and depression between patients with usual care and HBCR (for anxiety, [MD=-0.25, 95 % CI (-0.56, 0.05), P=0.11, I2=0 %]; for depression, [MD=-0.18, 95 % CI (-0.51, 0.16), P=0.30, I2=0 %] . No significant difference was found in death number [RR=1.04, 95 % CI (0.55, 1.98), P=0.90, I2=0 %] or in the number of re-hospitalization [RR=0.88, 95 % CI (0.66, 1.18), P=0.40, I2=0 %] between usual care and HBCR. For patients with heart failure, compare with usual care and center-based CR, HBCR can improve the total quality of life. Compare with usual care, HBCR can improve VO2max and 6-min Walk Distance, but compare with center- based CR, there are no differences in mortality, re-hospitalization rate or incidence of anxiety and depression. Additionally, center- based CR and HBCR showed similar outcomes and medical costs.

El objetivo de este estudio fue investigar el efecto de la rehabilitación cardíaca domiciliaria (HBCR) sobre la calidad de vida, la capacidad funcional y las tasas de reingreso en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca. Se seleccionaron ensayos controlados aleatorios (ECA) de la Biblioteca Cochrane, CINAHL, EMBASE y MEDLINE. El grupo de intervención recibió un HBCR estandarizado o una estrategia de rehabilitación integral que incluía HBCR. Los participantes del grupo de control recibieron RC en un centro médico o atención habitual sin intervención de RC. Las principales medidas de resultado incluyeron la calidad de vida, la capacidad de ejercicio, la mortalidad y la rehospitalización. Este metanálisis incluyó 20 ECA, en los que 16 estudios compararon HBCR con la atención habitual y 4 estudios compararon que mejoró la puntuación total de calidad de vida [DM=-5,85, IC del 95 % (-9,76, -1,94), P=0,003, I2=75 %]. Los pacientes con HBCR y atención habitual fueron significativamente diferentes en el VO2máx [DM = 1,05 ml/kg/ min, IC del 95 % (0,35, 1,75), P = 0,003, I2 = 46 %]. Sin embargo, el VO2max de los pacientes con HBCR no fue significativamente diferente de aquellos con CR basada en el centro [DM = 0,08 ml/kg/min, IC del 95 % (-1,29, 1,44), P = 0,91, I2 = 0 %]. Hubo una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en la distancia de caminata de 6 minutos entre la atención habitual y HBCR (para la distancia [DM=11,84, IC del 95 % (7,41, 16,28), P<0,00001, I2=0 %]; y para los pies [DM= 98,93, IC 95 % (26,79, 171,08), P=0,007, I2=56 %]). Sin embargo, no hubo una diferencia significativa en la distancia de caminata de 6 minutos entre los pacientes con HBCR y CR basada en el cen- tro [DM = 12,45, IC del 95 % (-9,81, 34,72), P = 0,27, I2 = 0 %], o en la ansiedad y depresión entre pacientes con atención habitual y HBCR (para ansiedad, [DM=-0,25, IC del 95 % (-0,56, 0,05), P=0,11, I2=0 %]; para depresión, [DM=-0,18, 95 % IC (- 0,51, 0,16), P=0,30, I2=0 %] No se encontraron diferencias significativas en el número de muertes [RR=1,04, IC del 95 % (0,55, 1,98), P=0,90, I2=0 %] o en el número de reingresos [RR=0,88, IC 95 % (0,66, 1,18), P=0,40, I2=0 %] entre atención habitual y HBCR. Para los pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca, en comparación con la atención habitual y la CR en un centro, la HBCR puede mejorar la calidad de vida total. En comparación con la atención habitual, la HBCR puede mejorar el VO2máx y la distancia recorrida en 6 minutos, pero en comparación con la CR basada en un centro, no hay diferencias en la mortalidad, la tasa de rehospitalización o la incidencia de ansiedad y depresión. Además, CR y HBCR basados en el centro mostraron resultados y costos médicos similares.

Impact of different types of heart failure on long-term renal prognosis in patients with renal insufficiency and heart failure / 中华肝脏病杂志

Objective: To investigate the effects of different types of heart failure on long-term renal prognosis in patients with renal insufficiency and heart failure. Methods: The patients with renal insufficiency [baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 ml·min-1·(1.73 m2)-1] and heart failure followed-up for more than 2 years and hospitalized in Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University from January 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019 were enrolled in this retrospective cohort study. The patients were divided into three groups based on the baseline left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF): heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF, LVEF < 40%) group, heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF, 40% ≤ LVEF < 50%) group, and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF, LVEF ≥ 50%) group. Clinical data were collected and endpoint events (adverse renal outcome: the composite outcome of all-cause death or worsening renal function) were recorded through the electronic medical record system. Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to analyze the incidence of endpoint events of different heart failure subgroups. Cox regression model was performed to analyze the risk factors of endpoint events. Results: A total of 228 patients with renal insufficiency complicated with heart failure were included, with age of (68.14±14.21) years old and 138 males (60.5%). There were 85 patients (37.3%) in the HFrEF group, 40 patients (17.5%) in the HFmrEF group, and 103 patients (45.2%) in the HFpEF group. There were statistically significant differences in age, proportion of age > 65 years old, sex distribution, systolic blood pressure, pulmonary artery pressure, serum sodium, serum calcium, hemoglobin, serum cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, serum uric acid, troponin I, hypersensitive C-reactive protein, LVEF, ventricular septal thickness, left ventricular end-diastolic diameter, B-type natriuretic peptide, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and proportions of using beta blockers, using spirolactone, myocardial infarction, hypertension, cardiomyopathy and atrial fibrillation (all P < 0.05). During the median follow-up of 36.0 (28.0, 46.0) months, 73 patients (32.0%) had adverse renal outcomes. The total incidences of adverse renal outcomes were 32.9% (28/85) in the HFrEF group, 35.0% (14/40) in the HFmrEF group, and 30.1% (31/103) in the HFpEF group. Kaplan-Meier survival curve showed that there was no significant difference in the incidence of endpoint events among the three groups (log-rank test χ2=0.17, P=0.680). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that HFpEF (HFrEF as reference, HR=2.430, 95% CI 1.055-5.596, P=0.037) was an independent influencing factor of endpoint events. Conclusions: The long-term renal prognosis of patients with renal insufficiency and heart failure is poor. Compared with HFrEF, HFpEF is an independent risk factor of poor long-term renal prognosis in renal insufficiency patients with heart failure.