Stroke risk after transcatheter aortic valve replacement in patients with carotid stenosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Stroke is a feared complication of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Patients undergoing TAVR typically have multiple comorbidities, such as carotid artery stenosis (CAS). We conducted the present meta-analysis to determine the risk of stroke and mortality following TAVR in patients with CAS. METHODS: We searched PubMed/Medline, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Clinical Trials databases for clinical studies that compared CAS ≥50% and CAS ≥70% versus non-CAS TAVR population. The endpoints included the 30-day incidence of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) and 30-day all-cause of mortality. RESULTS: We identified seven studies that included 12,418 patients in the CAS group and 102,316 in the control group. CAS ≥50% was not associated with an increased risk of 30-day stroke or TIA after TAVR [risk ratio (RR): 1.38; 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 0.95-2.02; p = 0.09]. However, patients with CAS ≥70% had an increased risk of stroke or TIA (RR: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.02-2.01; p = 0.04). No difference in 30-day all-cause mortality was observed between CAS ≥50% or CAS ≥70% and control groups (RR: 1.09; 95% CI: 0.79-1.52; p = 0.59 and RR: 1.11; 95% CI: 0.85-1.45; p = 0.43, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: CAS ≥70% was associated with an increased risk of stroke or TIA following TAVR compared with patients without CAS.

Incidence of endoleak type IA in patients undergoing chimney endovascular aortic repair (ChEVAR) vs. standard endovascular repair.

Objectives: Almost half of endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) procedures are performed in hostile anatomy, increasing the risk of procedure related complications such as type IA endoleaks, which may be prevented with the chimney technique in EVAR (ChEVAR). Our aim is to describe the differential characteristics between EVAR in favorable anatomy and ChEVAR in hostile necks. Materials and methods: A cohort of patients with infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) that were treated with EVAR or ChEVAR were included. The primary outcome was the incidence of type IA endoleak. Secondary outcomes were the rate of chimney occlusion, reintervention, migration, rupture, acute limb ischemia, sac growth, and aneurysm-related mortality during the follow-up period. Results: . With a median follow-up of 11.5 months, 79 patients were treated with EVAR and 21 with ChEVAR. The overall age was 76.49 ± 7.32 years old, and 82% were male. The ChEVAR cohort had a higher prevalence of tobacco use than the EVAR cohort (38.1% vs. 17.7%, p = 0.041), and a shorter neck (7.88 mm ± 5.73 vs 36.28 mm ± 13.73, p<0.001). There were no differences in type IA endoleak incidence between the groups (a single endoleak type IA in the EVAR group, p = 0.309). One patient experienced an asymptomatic chimney occlusion in the ChEVAR group, and another patient required a reintervention due to chimney occlusion. Sac regression and reinterventions were not different between groups. There were no migration, rupture, acute limb ischemia, or aneurysm-related mortality events. Conclusions: . In patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms, ChEVAR in hostile necks had similar event rates to EVAR in favorable necks.

Objetivos: Aproximadamente la mitad de las reparaciones endovasculares de aneurisma de aorta abdominal (AAA) son realizadas en anatomías hostiles, incrementando el riesgo de complicaciones como endoleaks tipo IA. La técnica con chimeneas (ChEVAR) es una alternativa para disminuir el riesgo de complicaciones en cuellos hostiles. Nuestro objetivo es comparar ambas técnicas (ChEVAR y reparación endovascular convencional [EVAR]) en nuestra medio. Materiales y métodos: Se realizó un trabajo de cohorte retrospectivo en pacientes con AAA tratados con EVAR o ChEVAR. El punto final primario fue la incidencia de endoleak tipo IA. Los puntos finales secundarios fueron la incidencia de oclusión de chimeneas, reintervención, migración, ruptura del saco, isquemia aguda de miembros, crecimiento del saco o mortalidad asociada al aneurisma durante el seguimiento. Resultados: Tras una mediana de seguimiento de 11,5 meses, 79 pacientes fueron tratados con EVAR y 21 con chEVAR. La edad promedio fue de 76,49 ± 7,32 años y 82% fueron de sexo masculino. Los pacientes con chEVAR tuvieron mayor prevalencia de consumo tabáquico que los pacientes con EVAR (38,1% vs. 17,7%, p=0,041) y un cuello más corto (7,88 mm ± 5,73 vs. 36,28 mm ± 13,73, p<0,001). No hubo diferencia de endoleak tipo IA entre los grupos. Dos pacientes presentaron la oclusión total de la chimenea, uno de los cuales requirió reintervención. No hubo diferencias en la regresión del tamaño del saco, así como tampoco hubo eventos de migración, ruptura, isquemia del miembro o mortalidad asociada al aneurisma. Conclusiones: En pacientes con AAA, la técnica ChEVAR en cuellos hostiles tuvo eventos similares que EVAR en cuellos favorables.

Prognostic relevance of female gender on mortality after peripheral artery disease revascularization / Relevancia pronóstica del género femenino en la mor talidad luego de la revascularización de la enfermedad arterial periférica

Abstract Introduction : Lower limb peripheral artery disease (PAD) presents high morbidity and mortality. Women represent a small subgroup in different studies, with scarce evidence regarding the prognosis of this gender on PAD. The aim of the present work was to determine the prognostic impact of female gender on lower limb PAD revascularization. Methods : This was a retrospective, single-center study, including patients undergoing symptomatic lower limb PAD revascularization. Results : Among a total of 309 patients included in the study, 109 belonged to the female gender (35%). Women were older and presented lower prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors compared with the male gender. All-cause mortality (22% vs. 12%, p = 0.02) and re-hospitalizations for chronic limb-threatening ischemia (18% vs. 10%, p = 0.04) rates were significantly higher in women. In a multivariate regression model, female gender was independently associated with all-cause mortality (OR 2.19 [95% CI: 1.06-4.51], p = 0.03). The time-to-event showed that women exhibited 93% more risk of suffering death than men, after adjusting for clinically relevant variables (HR 1.93 [95% CI: 1.04-3.56], p = 0.04). Discussion : Women with symptomatic PAD revascu larization presented worse prognosis than men in terms of all-cause mortality and re-hospitalizations for chronic limb-threatening ischemia rates. Therefore, it is essen tial to achieve an adequate control of cardiovascular risk factors, as well as to optimize medical treatment in female patients.

Resumen Introducción : La enfermedad arterial de miembros inferiores (EAMI) presenta elevada morbimortalidad. Las mujeres constituyen un subgrupo minoritario en distin tos estudios, con escasa evidencia acerca del pronóstico por género en EAMI. Nuestro objetivo fue determinar el impacto pronóstico del género femenino en la revascu larización de EAMI. Métodos : Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo y unicén trico, que incluyó pacientes con EAMI sintomática y revascularizada. Resultados : Se incluyeron 309 pacientes, de los cuales 109 (35%) eran mujeres. Las mujeres fueron más añosas y presentaron menor prevalencia de factores de riesgo cardiovascular en comparación a los hombres. Las tasas de mortalidad por todas las causas (22% vs. 12%, p = 0.02) y de hospitalizaciones por isquemia crítica (18% vs. 10%, p 0.04) fueron significativamente mayores en mujeres. En el modelo de regresión multivariado, el sexo femenino se asoció de forma independiente con mortalidad por todas las causas (OR 2.19 [IC 95%: 1.06-4.51], p = 0.03). En el análisis de tiempo al evento, las mujeres tuvieron 93% más riesgo de morir que los hombres, luego de ajustar por variables clínicamente relevantes (HR 1.93 [IC 95%: 1.04-3.56], p = 0.04). Discusión : Las mujeres con EAMI sintomática y re vascularizada presentaron un peor pronóstico en com paración a los hombres en términos de tasas de mor talidad por todas las causas y de hospitalizaciones por isquemia crítica de miembros inferiores. Por lo tanto, es fundamental lograr un adecuado control de factores de riesgo cardiovascular, como así también, optimizar el tratamiento médico en el género femenino.

Procedural and long-term outcomes of elective endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair in octogenarians / Resultados perioperatorios y a largo plazo de la reparación electiva endovascular del aneurisma de aorta abdominal en octogenarios

Abstract Objective: The aim of the study was to compare the immediate and long-term outcomes of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) between patients under and over the age of 80 with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Methods: From 2011 to 2017, we conducted a retrospective cohort study with AAA patients who received elective EVAR. Primary outcomes included hospital mortality, length of stay, acute kidney injury, and the need for re-interventions. Secondary outcomes included aneurysm-related mortality, acute myocardial infarction, stroke, acute limb ischemia, and prolonged mechanical ventilation. Results: A total of 77 (62.6%) patients under the age of 80 years old and 46 (37.4%) octogenarians were included in the study. The male gender and AAA diameter did not differ among groups (92.2% vs. 82.6%, p = 0.11 and 5.4 cm [4.9-6.2 cm] vs. 5.4 cm [5-6 cm], p = 0.53, respectively). The younger patients had a higher prevalence of tobacco use (72.7% vs. 41.7%, p = 0.01). There were no deaths during the index hospitalization. The incidence of reinterventions (5.3% vs. 15.2%, p = 0.11) and acute kidney injury (14.3% vs. 23.9%, p = 0.18) did not differ between groups, but the length of stay was longer for octogenarian patients (3 days [2-4] vs. 2 days [2-3, p = 0.04]). Endoleaks were the most common cause for re-interventions (81.8%), with a prevalence of 34% across the entire cohort. There were no differences in any of the secondary outcomes between groups. Conclusion: In octogenarian patients with AAA, EVAR represents a safe procedure both during the index hospitalization and during long-term follow-up.

Resumen Objetivo: Comparar los resultados inmediatos y a largo plazo de la reparación endovascular del aneurisma de aorta abdominal (REVA) entre pacientes menores de 80 años y octogenarios. Método: Cohorte retrospectiva que incluyó pacientes con aneurisma de aorta abdominal (AAA) sometidos a REVA electiva desde 2011 hasta 2017. Se evaluaron como punto finales primarios la mortalidad hospitalaria, la duración de la estadía hospitalaria, la incidencia de insuficiencia renal aguda y el requerimiento de reintervenciones. Los puntos finales secundarios incluyeron la mortalidad asociada al aneurisma, infarto agudo de miocardio, accidente cerebrovascular, isquemia arterial aguda de las extremidades y ventilación mecánica prolongada. Resultados: Se incluyeron 77 (62.6%) pacientes menores de 80 años y 46 (37.4%) octogenarios. La prevalencia de sexo masculino y el diámetro del AAA no difirieron entre ambos grupos (92.2% vs. 82.6%, p = 0.11 y 5.4 cm [4.9-6.2 cm] vs. 5.4 cm [5-6 cm], p = 0.53, respectivamente). Los pacientes más jóvenes presentaron una mayor prevalencia de tabaquismo (72.7% vs. 41.7%, p = 0.01). No se registraron muertes durante la hospitalización índice. La incidencia de reintervenciones (5.3% vs. 15.2%, p = 0.11) e insuficiencia renal aguda (14.3% vs. 23.9%, p = 0.18) no difirieron entre ambos grupos, pero la estadía hospitalaria fue más prolongada en pacientes octogenarios (3 días [2-4 días] vs. 2 días [2-3 días], p = 0.04). La causa más frecuente de reintervenciones fue la presencia de endofugas (81.8%), con una prevalencia del 34% en toda la cohorte. No se observaron diferencias en ninguno de los puntos finales secundarios entre ambos grupos. Conclusión: En pacientes octogenarios con AAA, la REVA presentó un buen perfil de seguridad perioperatorio y a largo plazo.

Prognostic relevance of female gender on mortality after peripheral artery disease revascularization.

INTRODUCTION: Lower limb peripheral artery disease (PAD) presents high morbidity and mortality. Women represent a small subgroup in different studies, with scarce evidence regarding the prognosis of this gender on PAD. The aim of the present work was to determine the prognostic impact of female gender on lower limb PAD revascularization. METHODS: This was a retrospective, single-center study, including patients undergoing symptomatic lower limb PAD revascularization. RESULTS: Among a total of 309 patients included in the study, 109 belonged to the female gender (35%). Women were older and presented lower prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors compared with the male gender. All-cause mortality (22% vs. 12%, p = 0.02) and rehospitalizations for chronic limb-threatening ischemia (18% vs. 10%, p = 0.04) rates were significantly higher in women. In a multivariate regression model, female gender was independently associated with all-cause mortality (OR 2.19 [95% CI: 1.06-4.51], p = 0.03). The timeto-event showed that women exhibited 93% more risk of suffering death than men, after adjusting for clinically relevant variables (HR 1.93 [95% CI: 1.04-3.56], p = 0.04). DISCUSSION: Women with symptomatic PAD revascularization presented worse prognosis than men in terms of all-cause mortality and re-hospitalizations for chronic limb-threatening ischemia rates. Therefore, it is essential to achieve an adequate control of cardiovascular risk factors, as well as to optimize medical treatment in female patients.

Introducción: La enfermedad arterial de miembros inferiores (EAMI) presenta elevada morbimortalidad. Las mujeres constituyen un subgrupo minoritario en distintos estudios, con escasa evidencia acerca del pronóstico por género en EAMI. Nuestro objetivo fue determinar el impacto pronóstico del género femenino en la revascularización de EAMI. Métodos: Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo y unicéntrico, que incluyó pacientes con EAMI sintomática y revascularizada. Resultados: Se incluyeron 309 pacientes, de los cuales 109 (35%) eran mujeres. Las mujeres fueron más añosas y presentaron menor prevalencia de factores de riesgo cardiovascular en comparación a los hombres. Las tasas de mortalidad por todas las causas (22% vs. 12%, p = 0.02) y de hospitalizaciones por isquemia crítica (18% vs. 10%, p 0.04) fueron significativamente mayores en mujeres. En el modelo de regresión multivariado, el sexo femenino se asoció de forma independiente con mortalidad por todas las causas (OR 2.19 [IC 95%: 1.06-4.51], p = 0.03). En el análisis de tiempo al evento, las mujeres tuvieron 93% más riesgo de morir que los hombres, luego de ajustar por variables clínicamente relevantes (HR 1.93 [IC 95%: 1.04-3.56], p = 0.04). Discusión: Las mujeres con EAMI sintomática y revascularizada presentaron un peor pronóstico en comparación a los hombres en términos de tasas de mortalidad por todas las causas y de hospitalizaciones por isquemia crítica de miembros inferiores. Por lo tanto, es fundamental lograr un adecuado control de factores de riesgo cardiovascular, como así también, optimizar el tratamiento médico en el género femenino.

Manejo del aneurisma de aorta abdominal sintomático no roto: últimos adelanto / Management of symptomatic unruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms: state of the art

RESUMEN El aneurisma de aorta abdominal (AAA) sintomático no roto es una patología que involucra a aquellos pacientes con AAA intacto, pero que presentan dolor abdominal y/o lumbar atribuido al aneurisma. Esta forma de presentación clínica es po tencialmente mortal dado que su etiopatogenia comprende cambios agudos en la pared aórtica, incluyendo inflamación, lo que incrementa la probabilidad de ruptura inminente. Está claro que estos pacientes deben ser derivados a reparación del AAA. Sin embargo, el momento de la intervención es controvertido. Por lo tanto, el objetivo del presente trabajo fue revisar la información actualizada sobre el abordaje diagnóstico-terapéutico del AAA sintomático no roto.

ABSTRACT Symptomatic unruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) refers to a group of patients with intact AAA but who present abdominal and/or lumbar pain attributed to the aneurysm. This form of clinical presentation is potentially fatal since its etiopathogenesis, involving acute changes in the aortic wall, including inflammation, increases the probability of impending rupture. It is clear that these patients should be referred to AAA repair. However, the timing of the intervention is contro versial. Therefore, the aim of the present work was to review updated information on the diagnostic-therapeutic approach of symptomatic unruptured AAA.

Clinical impact of the infrapatellar location in symptomatic peripheral arterial disease patients / Impacto clínico de la localización infrapatelar en pacientes con enfermedad arterial periférica sintomática

Abstract Background: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) frequently affects multiple segments of the limbs. Contradictory data have reported worse prognosis in aortoiliac lesions, nevertheless, diabetes and chronic limb ischemia frequently affects the infrapatellar territory. Our aim was to assess the impact of infrapatellar disease in cardiovascular outcomes. Methods: We performed a retrospective, observational cohort study at a university hospital in Argentina. Electronic health records were retrospectively reviewed including symptomatic PAD patients requiring revascularization. A multivariable regression model was performed to account for confounders. The primary endpoint was a composite of hospitalizations due to chronic limb threatening ischemia (CLTI) and major amputation events between infrapatellar and suprapatellar patients. Minor amputation events, all-cause death, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and major cardiovascular events (MACE) were secondary endpoints. Results: From January 2014 through July 2020, a total of 309 patients were included in the analysis. 151 patients had suprapatellar disease, and 158 had infrapatellar disease. The primary composite endpoint occurred in 35 patients (22.2%) in the infrapatellar patients and 18 patients (11.9%) in the suprapatellar patients (HR = 2.16; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.22-3.82]; p = 0.008). Both components of the primary outcomes occurred more frequently in infrapatellar patients. Minor amputation events were more prevalent in infrapatellar patients (HR = 5.09; 95% CI = [1.47-17.6]; p = 0.010). Death, MI, stroke, and MACE events were not different among groups (all p > 0.05). Conclusion: Infrapatellar disease was an independent factor for increased hospitalization of CLTI, major and minor amputations events, compared to suprapatellar disease in symptomatic revascularized PAD patients.

Resumen Objetivo: La enfermedad vascular periférica (EVP) afecta generalmente múltiples segmentos de los miembros. Existe información contradictoria con respecto al pronóstico de pacientes con enfermedad aortoilíaca, sin embargo, la diabetes y la enfermedad critica de miembros inferiores habitualmente afecta el territorio infrapatelar. Nuestro objetivo es determinar el impacto de la afectación infrapatelar en eventos cardiovasculares. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, observacional en un hospital universitario de Argentina. Se revisó la historia clínica electrónica de pacientes con EVP con requerimiento de revascularización. Se generó un modelo de regresión multivariado incluyendo variables clínicamente relevantes. El punto final primario fue un combinado de hospitalización por isquemia crítica y amputaciones mayores entre pacientes con afectación infrapatelar y suprapatelar. Amputaciones menores, muerte por todas las causas, infarto agudo de miocardio (IAM), accidente cerebrovascular (ACV) y un combinado de eventos cardiovasculares (MACE) fueron los puntos secundarios. Resultados: Se reclutó un total de 309 pacientes desde enero de 2014 hasta julio de 2020. 151 pacientes presentaron enfermedad suprapatelar y 158 infrapatelar. El punto final primario ocurrió en 35 pacientes (22.2%) en el grupo infrapatelar y en 18 pacientes (11.9%) en suprapatelares (HR 2.16; intervalo de confianza 95% [1.22-3.82]; p = 0.008). Ambos componentes ocurrieron con mayor frecuencia en pacientes con afectación infrapatelar. Los eventos de amputación menor fueron mas prevalentes en pacientes con afectación infrapatelar (HR 5.09; IC95% [1.47-17.6]; p = 0.010) La mortalidad por todas las causas, IAM, ACV y MACE no fueron diferentes entre los grupos (p > 0.05). Conclusión: La enfermedad infrapatelar fue un factor independiente para mayor riesgo de hospitalización por isquemia critica, amputación mayor y menor comparado con pacientes con afectación suprapatelar en EVP sintomática revascularizada.

[Procedural and long-term outcomes of elective endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair in octogenarians]. / Resultados perioperatorios y a largo plazo de la reparación electiva endovascular del aneurisma de aorta abdominal en octogenarios.

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare the immediate and long-term outcomes of endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) between patients under and over the age of 80 with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Methods: From 2011 to 2017, we conducted a retrospective cohort study with AAA patients who received elective EVAR. Primary outcomes included hospital mortality, length of stay, acute kidney injury, and the need for re-interventions. Secondary outcomes included aneurysm-related mortality, acute myocardial infarction, stroke, acute limb ischemia, and prolonged mechanical ventilation. Results: A total of 77 (62.6%) patients under the age of 80 years old and 46 (37.4%) octogenarians were included in the study. The male gender and AAA diameter did not differ among groups (92.2% vs. 82.6%, p = 0.11 and 5.4 cm [4.9-6.2 cm] vs. 5.4 cm [5-6 cm], p = 0.53, respectively). The younger patients had a higher prevalence of tobacco use (72.7% vs. 41.7%, p = 0.01). There were no deaths during the index hospitalization. The incidence of reinterventions (5.3% vs. 15.2%, p = 0.11) and acute kidney injury (14.3% vs. 23.9%, p = 0.18) did not differ between groups, but the length of stay was longer for octogenarian patients (3 days [2-4] vs. 2 days [2-3, p = 0.04)]. Endoleaks were the most common cause for re-interventions (81.8%), with a prevalence of 34% across the entire cohort. There were no differences in any of the secondary outcomes between groups. Conclusion: In octogenarian patients with AAA, EVAR represents a safe procedure both during the index hospitalization and during long-term follow-up.

Objetivo: Comparar los resultados inmediatos y a largo plazo de la reparación endovascular del aneurisma de aorta abdominal (REVA) entre pacientes menores de 80 años y octogenarios. Método: Cohorte retrospectiva que incluyó pacientes con aneurisma de aorta abdominal (AAA) sometidos a REVA electiva desde 2011 hasta 2017. Se evaluaron como punto finales primarios la mortalidad hospitalaria, la duración de la estadía hospitalaria, la incidencia de insuficiencia renal aguda y el requerimiento de reintervenciones. Los puntos finales secundarios incluyeron la mortalidad asociada al aneurisma, infarto agudo de miocardio, accidente cerebrovascular, isquemia arterial aguda de las extremidades y ventilación mecánica prolongada. Resultados: Se incluyeron 77 (62.6%) pacientes menores de 80 años y 46 (37.4%) octogenarios. La prevalencia de sexo masculino y el diámetro del AAA no difirieron entre ambos grupos (92.2% vs. 82.6%, p = 0.11 y 5.4 cm [4.9-6.2 cm] vs. 5.4 cm [5-6 cm], p = 0.53, respectivamente). Los pacientes más jóvenes presentaron una mayor prevalencia de tabaquismo (72.7% vs. 41.7%, p = 0.01). No se registraron muertes durante la hospitalización índice. La incidencia de reintervenciones (5.3% vs. 15.2%, p = 0.11) e insuficiencia renal aguda (14.3% vs. 23.9%, p = 0.18) no difirieron entre ambos grupos, pero la estadía hospitalaria fue más prolongada en pacientes octogenarios (3 días [2-4 días] vs. 2 días [2-3 días], p = 0.04). La causa más frecuente de reintervenciones fue la presencia de endofugas (81.8%), con una prevalencia del 34% en toda la cohorte. No se observaron diferencias en ninguno de los puntos finales secundarios entre ambos grupos. Conclusión: En pacientes octogenarios con AAA, la REVA presentó un buen perfil de seguridad perioperatorio y a largo plazo.

Clinical impact of the infrapatellar location in symptomatic peripheral arterial disease patients.

Background: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) frequently affects multiple segments of the limbs. Contradictory data have reported worse prognosis in aortoiliac lesions, nevertheless, diabetes and chronic limb ischemia frequently affects the infrapatellar territory. Our aim was to assess the impact of infrapatellar disease in cardiovascular outcomes. Methods: We performed a retrospective, observational cohort study at a university hospital in Argentina. Electronic health records were retrospectively reviewed including symptomatic PAD patients requiring revascularization. A multivariable regression model was performed to account for confounders. The primary endpoint was a composite of hospitalizations due to chronic limb threatening ischemia (CLTI) and major amputation events between infrapatellar and suprapatellar patients. Minor amputation events, all-cause death, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and major cardiovascular events (MACE) were secondary endpoints. Results: From January 2014 through July 2020, a total of 309 patients were included in the analysis. 151 patients had suprapatellar disease, and 158 had infrapatellar disease. The primary composite endpoint occurred in 35 patients (22.2%) in the infrapatellar patients and 18 patients (11.9%) in the suprapatellar patients (HR = 2.16; 95% confidence interval [CI]= [1.22-3.82]; p = 0.008). Both components of the primary outcomes occurred more frequently in infrapatellar patients.Minor amputation events were more prevalent in infrapatellar patients (HR = 5.09; 95% CI = [1.47-17.6]; p = 0.010). Death,MI, stroke, and MACE events were not different among groups (all p > 0.05). Conclusion: Infrapatellar disease was anindependent factor for increased hospitalization of CLTI, major and minor amputations events, compared to suprapatellardisease in symptomatic revascularized PAD patients.

Objetivo: La enfermedad vascular periférica (EVP) afecta generalmente múltiples segmentos de los miembros. Existe información contradictoria con respecto al pronóstico de pacientes con enfermedad aortoilíaca, sin embargo, la diabetes y la enfermedad critica de miembros inferiores habitualmente afecta el territorio infrapatelar. Nuestro objetivo es determinar el impacto de la afectación infrapatelar en eventos cardiovasculares. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, observacional en un hospital universitario de Argentina. Se revisó la historia clínica electrónica de pacientes con EVP con requerimiento de revascularización. Se generó un modelo de regresión multivariado incluyendo variables clínicamente relevantes. El punto final primario fue un combinado de hospitalización por isquemia crítica y amputaciones mayores entre pacientes con afectación infrapatelar y suprapatelar. Amputaciones menores, muerte por todas las causas, infarto agudo de miocardio (IAM), accidente cerebrovascular (ACV) y un combinado de eventos cardiovasculares (MACE) fueron los puntos secundarios. Resultados: Se reclutó un total de 309 pacientes desde enero de 2014 hasta julio de 2020. 151 pacientes presentaron enfermedad suprapatelar y 158 infrapatelar. El punto final primario ocurrió en 35 pacientes (22.2%) en el grupo infrapatelar y en 18 pacientes (11.9%) en suprapatelares (HR 2.16; intervalo de confianza 95% [1.22-3.82]; p = 0.008). Ambos componentes ocurrieron con mayor frecuencia en pacientes con afectación infrapatelar. Los eventos de amputación menor fueron mas prevalentes en pacientes con afectación infrapatelar (HR 5.09; IC95% [1.47-17.6]; p = 0.010) La mortalidad por todas las causas, IAM, ACV y MACE no fueron diferentes entre los grupos (p > 0.05). Conclusión: La enfermedad infrapatelar fue un factor independiente para mayor riesgo de hospitalización por isquemia critica, amputación mayor y menor comparado con pacientes con afectación suprapatelar en EVP sintomática revascularizada.

Population attitude and access to the healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic / Actitud de la población y acceso al sistema de salud durante la pandemia de COVID-19

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic elicited important changes in community habits and behaviors, including a distancing of people from the healthcare system. The objective of this work was to understand the causes that gave rise to changes in behavior from an individual perspective in the Argentine Republic. We performed a cross-sectional, web-based survey using an online questionnaire. The survey was distributed via the WhatsApp application for smartphones among subjects across the Argentine territory using a combination of convenience and snowball sampling. We received 6176 responses. Almost 70% of respondents manifested fear of visiting a physician. One third of respondents manifested having a desire or need in at least one occasion of visiting a physician but, of these, 48% avoided it. The main reasons for avoiding visits were: 1) a recommenda tion of staying home (40%); 2) lack of access to the physician (35%); and 3) fear of contagion (26%). The most common form of consultation was through unconventional means (e-mail, telephone, or WhatsApp). One of 5 respondents had difficulties to obtain a medication prescription and 5% stopped the use of at least one medica tion. Regarding healthy habits, almost 2/3 of those surveyed stated that they became more sedentary; 11% of hypertensive patients increased their consumption of salt and 15% saw their blood pressure values increase, while 16% of dyslipidemic patients showed increased consumption of fats.

Resumen La pandemia de COVID-19 determinó un importante cambio de los hábitos y comportamientos comu nitarios, entre ellos se observó un distanciamiento de la gente del sistema de salud y el abandono de hábitos saludables. El objetivo de este trabajo fue comprender las causas que dieron lugar a dichos cambios de com portamiento desde una perspectiva individual y evaluar el impacto en el control de los factores de riesgo car diovasculares. Realizamos una encuesta utilizando un cuestionario en línea y distribuida mediante la aplicación WhatsApp entre personas de la Argentina utilizando una combinación de muestreo por conveniencia y en "bola de nieve". Recibimos 6176 respuestas, casi el 70% de los encuestados manifestaron temor de realizar una con sulta médica. Un tercio de los encuestados manifestó haber tenido necesidad de ir al médico en al menos una oportunidad desde el inicio de la pandemia, pero de éstos, el 48% evitó la visita. Las principales razones para evitarla: 1) la recomendación de quedarse en casa (40%); 2) dificultad para acceder al sistema de salud (35%); y 3) miedo al contagio (26%). La forma de consulta más común fue a través de medios no convencionales (correo electrónico, teléfono o WhatsApp). Uno de cada 5 encuestados tuvo dificultades para obtener una receta y el 5% dejó de tomar al menos un medicamento. En cuanto a los hábitos saludables, casi 2/3 de los encuestados afirmaron volverse más sedentarios, el 11% de los hipertensos aumentó su consumo de sal y el 15% aumentó sus valores de presión arterial, mientras que el 16% de los dislipidémicos mostró un mayor consumo de grasas.

Population attitude and access to the healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic elicited important changes in community habits and behaviors, including a distancing of people from the healthcare system. The objective of this work was to understand the causes that gave rise to changes in behavior from an individual perspective in the Argentine Republic. We performed a cross-sectional, web-based survey using an online questionnaire. The survey was distributed via the WhatsApp application for smartphones among subjects across the Argentine territory using a combination of convenience and snowball sampling. We received 6176 responses. Almost 70% of respondents manifested fear of visiting a physician. One third of respondents manifested having a desire or need in at least one occasion of visiting a physician but, of these, 48% avoided it. The main reasons for avoiding visits were: 1) a recommendation of staying home (40%); 2) lack of access to the physician (35%); and 3) fear of contagion (26%). The most common form of consultation was through unconventional means (e-mail, telephone, or WhatsApp). One of 5 respondents had difficulties to obtain a medication prescription and 5% stopped the use of at least one medication. Regarding healthy habits, almost 2/3 of those surveyed stated that they became more sedentary; 11% of hypertensive patients increased their consumption of salt and 15% saw their blood pressure values increase, while 16% of dyslipidemic patients showed increased consumption of fats.

La pandemia de COVID-19 determinó un importante cambio de los hábitos y comportamientos comunitarios, entre ellos se observó un distanciamiento de la gente del sistema de salud y el abandono de hábitos saludables. El objetivo de este trabajo fue comprender las causas que dieron lugar a dichos cambios de comportamiento desde una perspectiva individual y evaluar el impacto en el control de los factores de riesgo cardiovasculares. Realizamos una encuesta utilizando un cuestionario en línea y distribuida mediante la aplicación WhatsApp entre personas de la Argentina utilizando una combinación de muestreo por conveniencia y en "bola de nieve". Recibimos 6176 respuestas, casi el 70% de los encuestados manifestaron temor de realizar una consulta médica. Un tercio de los encuestados manifestó haber tenido necesidad de ir al médico en al menos una oportunidad desde el inicio de la pandemia, pero de éstos, el 48% evitó la visita. Las principales razones para evitarla: 1) la recomendación de quedarse en casa (40%); 2) difi cultad para acceder al sistema de salud (35%); y 3) miedo al contagio (26%). La forma de consulta más común fue a través de medios no convencionales (correo electrónico, teléfono o WhatsApp). Uno de cada 5 encuestados tuvo dificultades para obtener una receta y el 5% dejó de tomar al menos un medicamento. En cuanto a los hábitos saludables, casi 2/3 de los encuestados afirmaron volverse más sedentarios, el 11% de los hipertensos aumentó su consumo de sal y el 15% aumentó sus valores de presión arterial, mientras que el 16% de los dislipidémicos mostró un mayor consumo de grasas.

Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio predict in-hospital mortality in symptomatic but unruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm patients.

BACKGROUND: Symptomatic but unruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a potentially fatal disease since its etiopathogenesis, involving acute changes in the aortic wall, including inflammation, increasing the probability of impending rupture. The objective of the present study was to assess the prognostic value of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and the platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in patients undergoing urgent symptomatic AAA repair. METHODS: This was a retrospective study including 29 patients with symptomatic AAA repaired between 2011 and 2020. Both NLR and PLR were calculated on hospital admission prior to the intervention. The primary end point was in-hospital mortality, and the secondary end point included length of hospital stay and postoperative complications. RESULTS: In-hospital mortality rate was 10.3%. The discriminatory performance to predict the primary end point was very good both for PLR (area under the ROC curve [AUC]: 0.92 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.82-1.00; P=0.02) and NLR (AUC: 0.88 [95% CI: 0.75-1.00]; P=0.04). The best cutoff point to predict in-hospital mortality was 185 for PLR (100% sensitivity and 85% specificity) and 6.4 for NLR (100% sensitivity and 77% specificity). The most frequent postoperative complication was acute kidney failure (37.9%). Both elevated PLR as NLR were significantly associated with acute kidney failure and multiorgan failure in the immediate postoperative period (P<0.01). None of the two ratios was associated with length of hospital stay (P=NS). CONCLUSIONS: Both PLR and NLR are low-cost inflammatory markers widely available in every emergency department, with excellent performance to predict in-hospital mortality in patients undergoing symptomatic AAA repair. Patients with a PLR≥185 and/or an NLR≥6.4 could benefit from a "surveyed waiting conduct" improving the preoperative clinical condition prior to the intervention, or even considering endovascular repair.

Five-year outcomes of elective infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm repair at a university hospital in Argentina / Resultados a cinco años de la reparación electiva del aneurisma de aorta abdominal infrarrenal en un hospital universitario de Argentina.

Objective: Few data about outcomes of elective infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair in Latin America have been published. The objective of the present study is to address this aspect in our population. Method: Retrospective cohort, in which patients with infrarenal AAA undergoing elective surgical or endovascular repair from January 2011 to May 2017 at a university hospital in Autonomous City of Buenos Aires were consecutively included. The primary endpoints were perioperative mortality and all-cause mortality during follow-up. Among the secondary endpoints, the requeriment of reinterventions was assessed. Results: 195 patients were included. Open surgery was performed in 72 patients (36.9%) and endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) in 123 (63.1%). Perioperative mortality in the surgery group was 2.8%, while no deaths were recorded in the endovascular group (p = 0.06). The median follow-up was 38 months. No statistically significant difference was found in long-term mortality incidence rate between patients who underwent EVAR and those who underwent open surgery (7% per year vs. 6.7% per year, p = 0.8). The requirement of reinterventions was significantly higher in the endovascular group (9.0% vs. 0%, p = 0.01). Conclusions: Survival analyses demonstrated no statistically significant differences in perioperative and long-term mortality for patients who underwent EVAR compared with those who underwent open surgery, while the former had a higher rate of reinterventions. The results observed in our population do not differ from those published in the United State or Europe.

Ojetivo: La evidencia surgida en Latinoamérica acerca de los resultados de la reparación electiva del aneurisma de aorta abdominal (AAA) es escasa, por lo que el objetivo de este estudio es abordar este aspecto en la población nacional. Método: Cohorte retrospectiva en la cual se incluyó de forma consecutiva a pacientes con AAA infrarrenal sometidos a reparación quirúrgica o endovascular en forma electiva desde enero de 2011 hasta mayo de 2017 en un hospital universitario de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires. Los puntos finales primarios fueron la mortalidad perioperatoria y la mortalidad por todas las causas durante el seguimiento. Entre los puntos finales secundarios se evaluó el requerimiento de reintervenciones. Resultados: Se incluyó a 195 pacientes. La operación abierta se llevó a cabo en 72 pacientes (36.9%), mientras que el procedimiento endovascular se practicó en 123 (63.1%). La mortalidad perioperatoria en el grupo quirúrgico fue de 2.8%, sin registro de muertes en el grupo endovascular (p = 0.06). La mediana de seguimiento fue de 38 meses. La incidencia de mortalidad tardía fue de 7%/año en pacientes con reparación endovascular y de 6.7%/año en los quirúrgicos (p = 0.8). El requerimiento de reintervenciones fue significativamente mayor en el grupo endovascular (9.0% vs. 0%, p = 0.01). Conclusiones: La mortalidad perioperatoria y la mortalidad tardía de los pacientes tratados de manera electiva por AAA en forma quirúrgica o endovascular fueron similares, en tanto que los pacientes sometidos a reparación endovascular requirieron mayor cantidad de reintervenciones. Los resultados observados en la población no difieren de los publicados en Estados Unidos o Europa.

Novel Common Femoral Artery Lesion Classification in Patients Undergoing Endovascular Revascularization.

PURPOSE: Common femoral artery (CFA) is a critical segment of the lower-limb arterial tree. We sought to propose an extensive classification in order to appraise a diagnostic and therapeutic approach. METHODS: A retrospective cohort of CFA lesions with endovascular therapy was evaluated. We appraised the extension, the degree of stenosis and the calcium burden. A new group "IV" included lesions that started at the external iliac artery or common iliac artery extending into the CFA and affecting its bifurcation. The primary outcome was the need for a retrograde bailout access after failed anterograde access and the procedural time. RESULTS: From 2012 to 2020, a total of 58 lower limbs in patients with CFA lesions were included. New proposed group IV compromised 36% of lesions. Additionally, procedural time was significantly longer in group IV lesions compared with the rest (76.9 ± 32.23 min vs 47.67 ± 17.93 min, p < 0.01), as was the requirement of retrograde bailout access (23.8 vs 2.6%, p = 0.03). Occlusive lesions were associated with longer procedural times and bailout retrograde access compared to stenotic lesions (74.7 ± 33.6 min vs 48.29 ± 16 min, p < 0.001 and 26.1 vs 0%, p = 0.006, respectively), as well as heavy calcification compared to mild or moderate calcification (73.18 ± 28.15 vs 51.86 ± 25.1, p = 0.06 and 29.4 vs 2.4%, p = 0.009, respectively). Secondary clinical outcomes and target lesion revascularization did not differ among groups. CONCLUSIONS: Our classification includes a new group of extensive and frequent lesions, which did not fit in previous classifications.

Additive prognosis of clinical presentation in revascularized peripheral arterial disease patients.

BACKGROUND: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a frequent cause of morbidity and mortality. It may present with diverse clinical presentations. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognosis of these clinical presentations. METHODS: We performed a retrospective cohort study, in which symptomatic PAD patients were included from 2014 to 2020 at a university hospital in Argentina. We classified symptomatic PAD in intermittent claudication (IC), chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) and acute ischemia (AI). Our primary endpoint was to compare the composite of all-cause mortality and major amputation events between the three groups. RESULTS: We included 309 patients, with a median follow up of 1.87 years (IQR 0.72-3.67). The primary endpoint was more prevalent in CLTI and AI patients (33% and 33.3%) compared to IC patients (8.1%), P<0.001. CLTI and AI were independently associated with the primary endpoint after adjusting for clinical variables of interest (OR 4.04 95%CI [1.86-9.07], P<0.001 and OR 5.40 95%CI [2.18-13.7], P<0.001, respectively). Mortality incidence rate (per 100 patients/year) was similar between AI and CLTI patients (14.2 95% CI [8.0-24.1] and 13.1 95%CI [8.8-19.7], respectively, P=0.67) but higher compared to IC (2.9 95%CI [1.6-5.1], P<0.01). Major amputation events were more prevalent in CLTI (16.5%) compared to AI (8.9%) and IC patients (1.2%), P<0.01. CONCLUSIONS: Those with CLTI and AI have a particular increased risk of all-cause death and major amputation events. Although mortality incidence was similar between AI and CLTI patients, the latter have an increased risk of major amputation events compared to AI and IC patients.

Prevalencia de dilatación aórtica en pacientes con válvula aórtica bicúspide según los valores de referencia de la población argentina / Prevalence of Aortic Dilation in Patients with Bicuspid Aortic Valve According to Reference Values for the Argentine Population

RESUMEN Introducción: Una proporción significativa de los pacientes con válvula aórtica bicúspide (VAB) desarrollan una dilatación de la aorta que los predispone a serias complicaciones. Objetivos: Estimar la prevalencia de dilatación aórtica aplicando los valores de referencia de la población argentina en pacientes con VAB y la influencia de los distintos métodos de indexación (talla, T, y superficie corporal, SC). Materiales y métodos: Se incluyeron consecutivamente 581 pacientes adultos con VAB. Se definió la dilatación según el criterio propuesto por las guías (fórmulas de Devereux) y sobre la base de los valores propuestos por el registro MATEAR (Medición de Aorta Torácica por Ecocardiografía en Argentina). Resultados: La edad media fue de 44,9 años (±16), 68,7% sexo masculino. Sobre la base del registro MATEAR se observó alta prevalencia de dilatación de la raíz aórtica o aorta ascendente (72,3% según T y 61,5% según SC) que resultó, en la raíz, mayor que la obtenida según las fórmulas de Devereux (T 47% vs. 31,5%; SC 35,2% vs. 26,5% p < 0,001). Se observó una subestimación sistemática al indexar por SC en pacientes con índice de masa corporal >25 kg/m² (57,8% de la población). Conclusiones: La prevalencia de dilatación aórtica, cuando aplicamos los valores de referencia para la población argentina, fue alta y en la raiz significativamente mayor que la determinada por puntos de corte originados en otras poblaciones. Se observó una subestimación sistemática al corregir por superficie corporal en pacientes con índice de masa corporal >25 kg/m², por lo que indexar por talla sería la opción más recomendable.

ABSTRACT Background: A significant proportion of patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) develop aortic dilation predisposing to serious complications. Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of aortic dilation applying reference values for the Argentine population in patients with BAV, and the influence of different indexing methods [height, (H) and body surface area (BSA)] Methods: A total of 581 adult patients with BAV were consecutively included in the study. Aortic dilation was defined according to guideline criteria (Devereux formula) and the reference values suggested by the Echocardiography Thoracic Aortic Assessment in Argentina (MATEAR) registry. Results: Mean age was 44.9±16 years and 68.7% were men. A high prevalence of aortic root or ascending aorta dilation was observed based on MATEAR criteria (72.3% according to H and 61.5 % according to BSA). This was significantly higher for the aortic root than the one obtained with the Devereux formula (H: 47% vs. 31.5%; BSA: 35.2% vs. 26.5% P <0.001). A systematic underestimation was found when indexing for BSA in patients with body mass index (BMI) >25 kg/m² (57.8% of population). Conclusions: When applying the reference values for the Argentine population the prevalence of aortic dilation was high and significantly greater than at the root that determined by cutoff points originating in other populations. Systematic underestimation was observed when correcting for BSA in patients with BMI >25 kg/m², so indexing by H would be the most recommended option.

La paradoja de la obesidad en la insuficiencia cardíaca en ancianos / The Obesity Paradox of Heart Failure in the Elderly

RESUMEN Introducción: Múltiples estudios demostraron una relación "protectora" del índice de masa corporal (IMC) incrementado por sobre el IMC normal o bajo en el desarrollo y el pronóstico de la insuficiencia cardíaca. Las categorías de IMC de la población adulta no son adecuadas en la población anciana. Nos proponemos comparar la incidencia de mortalidad global y de reinternación por insuficiencia cardíaca durante el primer año según la categoría de IMC en esta población. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional y analítico de una cohorte retrospectiva de pacientes mayores de 65 años internados en la unidad de cuidados intensivos cardiológicos del Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires (HIBA) con diagnóstico de síndrome de insuficiencia cardíaca aguda (SICA) entre enero de 2013 y diciembre de 2017. Resultados: Se incluyeron 409 pacientes. Los subgrupos con mayor IMC presentaron menor mortalidad al año (peso insuficiente: 53%, normopeso: 41%, sobrepeso: 33%, obesos: 27%, p = 0,008). En el análisis multivariado, el HR para mortalidad anual ajustado por edad, sexo, reinternaciones, insuficiencia renal y tipo de insuficiencia cardíaca fue de 0,51 (IC95% 0,29-0,90) en los pacientes con sobrepeso y de 0,36 (IC95% 0,19-0,67) en los pacientes obesos con respecto a los de peso insuficiente. No hubo diferencias en la mortalidad intrahospitalaria ni en las reinternaciones al año entre los diferentes subgrupos de IMC. Conclusión: En la población de ancianos con SICA, los subgrupos con mayor IMC tienen mejor pronóstico durante el primer año, por lo que se cumple la "paradoja de la obesidad".

ABSTRACT Background: Multiple studies have demonstrated a "protective" relationship of increased body mass index (BMI) over normal or low BMI in the development and prognosis of heart failure. The BMI categories of the adult population are not adequate in the elderly population. We propose to compare the incidence of global mortality and/or readmission for heart failure during the first year according to the BMI category in this population. Methods: This was an observational and analytical study of a retrospective cohort of patients ≥65 years admitted to the cardiology intensive care unit of Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires with a diagnosis of Acute Heart Failure Syndrome (AHFS) between January 2013 and December 2017. Results: The study included 409 patients. The subgroups with higher BMI had lower mortality at one year (Underweight: 53%, Normal weight: 41%, Overweight: 33%, Obese: 27%, p = 0.008). In the multivariate analysis, annual mortality HR adjusted for age, gender, readmissions, kidney failure and type of heart failure was 0.51 (95% CI 0.29-0.90) for overweight patients and 0.36 (95% CI 0.19-0.67) for patients with obesity compared with underweight patients. There were no differences in inhospital mortality or in readmissions at one year between the different BMI subgroups. Conclusion: In the elderly population with AHFS, the subgroups with higher BMI have a better prognosis during the first year, fulfilling the "obesity paradox".

Acute pulmonary embolism in a patient with mild COVID-19 symptoms: a case report.

BACKGROUND: The venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a frequent condition, which may worsen the prognosis of hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Nevertheless, the incidence of this complication is unknown in patients with mild COVID-19 symptoms. CASE SUMMARY: A 26-year-old female nurse, who had been taking oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) treatment for the last 2 years, developed mild COVID-19 symptoms (rhinitis and anosmia). She underwent isolation at home and was subsequently followed up with telehealth visits. Fifteen days after her initial presentation, she developed acute onset sudden dyspnoea. On physical examination, she was found to be tachycardic with normal pulse oximetry. The initial risk score for VTE was moderate and laboratory results showed increased D-dimer level without other relevant findings. Computed tomography pulmonary angiography was performed, which confirmed low-risk subsegmental pulmonary embolism. DISCUSSION: Venous thromboembolism in patients who present with severe COVID-19 symptoms has already been described in the literature; its incidence is greater in patients hospitalized in intensive care units. Efforts to prevent VTE based on risk scores are widely recognized. However, the relationship in patients who present with mild COVID-19 symptoms and VTE is still unknown. Recently, experts on this field have introduced thromboprophylaxis guidelines including ambulatory patients based on the severity of COVID-19 symptoms and pro-thrombotic risk. Our patient showed no major risk for developing VTE; therefore, the VTE could be associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection or the eventual pro-thrombotic association with the concomitant use of OCPs.