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Background: A definition of myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) was published by European Society of Cardiology in 2016. The aim of this study is to analyze the clinical profile and prognosis of these patients in a prospective single-center study and compare it with the literature data. Methods: During a 3-year period, information from every consecutive MINOCA patient was gathered (n = 109). It was then compared with 412 contemporaneous patients with myocardial infarction and obstructive coronary arteries (MIOCA). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Prognosis analysis was adjusted by age and cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF). Results: MINOCA represented 16.9% of the total of patients admitted for myocardial infarction. Compared with MIOCA, they had more psychosocial disorders (22.9% vs. 10.7%; p < 0.01) and more pro-inflammatory conditions (34.9% vs. 14.0%; p < 0.01). Atrial fibrillation was twice as frequent in MINOCA (14.7% vs. 7.3%; p = 0.016). Predictors of MINOCA were as follows: female gender, absence of diabetes, absence of tobacco use, tachycardia, troponin above 10 times the 99 th percentile, and pro-inflammatory conditions. Median follow-up was 17.3 ± 9.3 months. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; a composite of a recurrence of acute myocardial infarction, transient ischemic attack/stroke, or death from cardiovascular cause and death from any cause) occurred in 10.8% of the MINOCA group as compared with 10.7% in the MIOCA group (hazard ratio [HR] 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.58–2.45; p = 0.645). Cardiovascular re-admission rates were higher in the MINOCA group: 19.8% vs. 13.9% (HR 1.85; CI 1.06–3.21; p = 0.030). Conclusions: The frequency of MINOCA is high, with fewer CVRF, and it is linked to atrial fibrillation, psychosocial disorders, and pro-inflammatory conditions. Mid-term prognosis is worse than previously thought, with a similar proportion of MACE as compared to MIOCA, and even a higher rate of cardiovascular re-admissions.

Resumen Antecedente y objetivo Los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca se caracterizan en 3 fenotipos en funcion de su fraccion de eyeccion ventricular izquierda. El proposito de este estudio fue comparar el perfil clinico, el tratamiento, el pronostico y las causas de muerte de los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca y fraccion de eyeccion ventricular izquierda reducida ( Metodologia Analisis de la informacion clinica recogida en un registro prospectivo de pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca remitidos a una consulta monografica de Cardiologia entre 2010 y 2019. Resultados Se estudiaron 1.404 pacientes con IC-FEr, 239 pacientes con IC-FErm y 266 pacientes con IC-FEp. Se observaron diferencias significativas entre los 3 grupos en relacion con diversas caracteristicas clinicas, y en cuanto a la tasa de prescripcion de farmacos moduladores de la respuesta neurohormonal. La regresion de Cox multivariante revelo un incremento del riesgo de muerte por cualquier causa en los pacientes con IC-FEp (hazard-ratio 1,36; intervalo de confianza al 95% 1,03-1,80; p = 0,028) e IC-FErm (hazard-ratio 1,36; intervalo de confianza al 95% 1,03-1,78; p = 0,029) en comparacion con los pacientes con IC-FEr. La insuficiencia cardiaca fue la causa mas frecuente de muerte en los 3 grupos; se observo un mayor peso relativo de la muerte subita en los pacientes con IC-FEr, mientras que las causas no cardiovasculares de muerte tuvieron un peso relativo mayor en los pacientes con IC-FEp e IC-FErm. Conclusiones El estudio confirma la existencia de diferencias significativas en el perfil clinico, manejo terapeutico, pronostico y causas de muerte de los pacientes con IC-FEr, IC-FErm e IC-FEp.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES Economic studies may help decision making in the management of multivessel disease in the setting of myocardial infarction. We sought to perform an economic evaluation of CROSS-AMI (Complete Revascularization or Stress Echocardiography in Patients With Multivessel Disease and ST-Segment Elevation Acute Myocardial Infarction) randomized clinical trial. METHODS We performed a cost minimization analysis for the strategies (complete angiographic revascularization [ComR] and selective stress echocardiography-guided revascularization [SelR]) compared in the CROSS-AMI clinical trial (N=306), attributable the initial hospitalization and readmissions during the first year of follow-up, using current rates for health services provided by our health system. RESULTS The index hospitalization costs were higher in the ComR group than in SelR arm (19 657.9±6236.8 € vs 14 038.7±4958.5 €; P

La presencia de una masa en la aurícula izquierda en un paciente con una prótesis mecánica mitral es relativamente frecuente y supone un reto diagnóstico. Presentamos el caso de una paciente que, tras ser intervenida de una sustitución valvular mitral, presentó insuficiencia cardíaca hallándose en el ecocardiograma una masa de gran tamaño dependiente del techo de la aurícula. La asociación del ecocardiograma transtorácico con otras técnicas de imagen cardíaca, ayuda tanto a caracterizar la lesión y determinar de forma precisa su localización, como su repercusión y posible afectación de estructuras vecinas.

We present the case of a 16-year-old male patient with a history of anxiety disorder who presented with a cardiopulmonary arrest at his home. The first cardiac rhythm (+0) was remarkable for irregular and very wide, aberrated QRS complexes (320 ms) without identifiable atrial activity. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation manoeuvres were initiated. He was intubated and transferred to the acute cardiac care unit. In the immediate ECG (+2 hours) irregular, very wide (320 ms), aberrated and right-bundle-branch-like morphology QRS complexes persisted, but after several hours of treatment (+15 hours) a sinusal activity started, QRS complexes shortened (160 ms) and a specific ECG pattern was noted on right precordial …

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Analizar la supervivencia de los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca (IC) tratados en una unidad especializada. Metodos Estudio prospectivo de una cohorte de pacientes con IC tratados en una unidad especializada entre 2011 y 2017. Se comparo la mortalidad observada a 1 y 3 anos con la mortalidad pronosticada por la puntuacion de riesgo del Meta-Analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure (MAGGIC). Resultados Se estudio a 1.280 pacientes, con una mediana de la puntuacion MAGGIC de 19 [intervalo intercuartilico, 13-24]. Las tasas de prescripcion de bloqueadores beta, inhibidores de la enzima de conversion de la angiotensina, antagonistas del receptor de la angiotensina II, antagonistas del receptor de mineralcorticoides y sacubitrilo-valsartan fueron del 93, el 67, el 22, el 73 y el 16% respectivamente. La puntuacion MAGGIC mostro una discriminacion adecuada de la mortalidad a 1 ano (estadistico c = 0,71) y a 3 anos (estadistico c = 0,76). La mortalidad observada fue significativamente menor que la pronosticada, tanto a 1 ano (el 6,2 frente al 10,9%; cociente observada/pronosticada = 0,57; p 40% (el 19,6 frente al 20,7%; cociente observada/pronosticada = 0,95; p = 0,640). Conclusiones Los pacientes con IC tratados en una unidad especializada presentaron una mortalidad inferior a la pronosticada por la puntuacion MAGGIC.

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Se sabe muy poco del impacto que las redes de atencion del infarto agudo de miocardio con elevacion del segmento ST (IAMCEST) tienen en la poblacion. El objetivo de este estudio es averiguar si el PROGALIAM (Programa Gallego de Atencion al Infarto Agudo de Miocardio) mejoro la supervivencia en la zona norte de Galicia. Metodos Se recogieron todos los eventos codificados como IAMCEST entre 2001 y 2013. Se identifico a 6.783 pacientes, divididos en 2 grupos: pre-PROGALIAM (2001-2005), 2.878 pacientes, y PROGALIAM (2006-2013), 3.905 pacientes. Resultados En la etapa pre-PROGALIAM, la mortalidad ajustada a 5 anos fue superior tanto en la poblacion total (HR = 1,22; IC95%, 1,14-1,29; p Conclusiones El desarrollo del PROGALIAM en el area norte de Galicia disminuyo la mortalidad e incremento la equidad de los pacientes con IAMCEST tanto en general como en cada una de las areas donde se implanto. Estudio registrado en ClinicalTrials.gov (Identificador: NCT02501070 ).

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Comparar los resultados a largo plazo de los anticoagulantes orales directos (ACOD) frente a los antagonistas de la vitamina K (AVK) en pacientes del mundo real con fibrilacion auricular no valvular (FANV) en un estudio nacional prospectivo. Metodos El estudio FANTASIIA incluyo consecutivamente a pacientes ambulatorios con FANV anticoagulados con ACOD o AVK desde junio de 2013 hasta octubre de 2014. Se compararon las tasas de eventos segun el anticoagulante administrado. Resultados Se incluyo a 2.178 pacientes (edad, 73,8 ± 9,4 anos; el 43,8% mujeres); de ellos, 533 (24,5%) recibian ACOD y 1.645 (75,5%), AVK. Tras una mediana de seguimiento de 32,4 meses, los pacientes con ACOD tuvieron tasas mas bajas de ictus —0,40 (IC95%, 0,17-0,97) frente a 1,07 (IC95%, 0,79-1,46) pacientes/ano; p = 0,032—, hemorragias mayores —2,13 (IC95%, 1,45-3,13) frente a 3,28 (IC95%, 2,75-3,93) pacientes/ano; p = 0,044—, muerte cardiovascular —1,20 (IC95%, 0,72-1,99) frente a 2,45 (IC95%, 2,00-3,00) pacientes/ano; p = 0,009— y muerte total —3,77 (IC95%, 2,83-5,01) frente a 5,54 (IC95%, 4,83-6,34) pacientes/ano; p = 0,016—. En el analisis de Cox modificado segun el metodo de Andersen-Gill para datos con multiples eventos, las razones de riesgos instantaneos para los pacientes con ACOD fueron 0,42 (0,16-1,07) para el ictus; 0,47 (0,20-1,16) para la embolia sistemica en general; 0,76 (0,50-1,15) para las hemorragias mayores; 0,67 (0,39-1,18) para la muerte cardiovascular; 0,86 (0,62-1,19) para la mortalidad total y 0,82 (0,64-1,05) para el combinado de ictus, embolias, hemorragias mayores y muerte. Conclusiones El tratamiento con ACOD se asocia con una tendencia a una menor tasa de todos los eventos graves, incluida la mortalidad, en relacion con los AVK en pacientes con FANV en Espana.

Introducción y objetivos El uso de dispositivos de asistencia circulatoria mecánica de corta duración como puente a trasplante es frecuente en España. Se desconocen la epidemiología y la repercusión de las complicaciones infecciosas en estos pacientes. Métodos Descripción sistemática de la epidemiología y análisis de la repercusión pronóstica de las complicaciones infecciosas en un registro multicéntrico retrospectivo de pacientes tratados con dispositivos de asistencia circulatoria mecánica de corta duración como puente a trasplante cardiaco urgente entre 2010 y 2015 en 16 hospitales españoles. Resultados Se estudió a 249 pacientes; 87 (34,9%) de ellos tuvieron un total de 102 infecciones. La vía respiratoria fue la localización más frecuente (n = 47; 46,1%). En 78 casos (76,5%) se obtuvo confirmación microbiológica; se aislaron en total 100 gérmenes causales, con predominio de bacterias gramnegativas (n = 58, 58%). Los pacientes con complicaciones infecciosas presentaron mayor mortalidad durante el periodo de asistencia circulatoria mecánica (el 25,3 frente al 12,3%; p = 0,009) y menor probabilidad de recibir un trasplante (el 73,6 frente al 85,2%; p = 0,025) que los pacientes sin infección. La mortalidad posoperatoria tras el trasplante fue similar en ambos grupos (con infección, el 28,3%; sin infección, el 23,4%; p = 0,471). Conclusiones Los pacientes tratados con dispositivos de asistencia circulatoria mecánica de corta duración como puente al trasplante cardiaco están expuestos a un alto riesgo de complicaciones infecciosas, las cuales se asocian con una mayor mortalidad en espera del órgano. Introduction and objectives Short-term mechanical circulatory support is frequently used as a bridge to heart transplant in Spain. The epidemiology and prognostic impact of infectious complications in these patients are unknown. Methods Systematic description of the epidemiology of infectious complications and analysis of their prognostic impact in a multicenter, retrospective registry of patients treated with short-term mechanical devices as a bridge to urgent heart transplant from 2010 to 2015 in 16 Spanish hospitals. Results We studied 249 patients, of which 87 (34.9%) had a total of 102 infections. The most frequent site was the respiratory tract (n = 47; 46.1%). Microbiological confirmation was obtained in 78 (76.5%) episodes, with a total of 100 causative agents, showing a predominance of gram-negative bacteria (n = 58, 58%). Compared with patients without infection, those with infectious complications showed higher mortality during the support period (25.3% vs 12.3%, P = .009) and a lower probability of receiving a transplant (73.6% vs 85.2%, P = .025). In-hospital posttransplant mortality was similar in the 2 groups (with infection: 28.3%; without infection: 23.4%; P = .471). Conclusions Patients supported with temporary devices as a bridge to heart transplant are exposed to a high risk of infectious complications, which are associated with higher mortality during the organ waiting period. Sin financiación 6.975 JCR (2021) Q1, 33/143 Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems 0.407 SJR (2021) Q3, 205/356 Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine No data IDR 2021 UEM

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[Abstract] Background and objectives: Cardiovascular risk estimation in people over 70 years of age is problematic. Most scores have been created based on cohorts of middle-aged people, with an underrepresentation of older adults. The predictive power of classical cardiovascular risk factors declines with age. The aim of this work is to develop a specific score for estimating cardiovascular risk among the elderly population in Spain. Methods: This work is a population-based cohort established in 1995. Setting: Three geographical areas of Spain (Madrid, Ávila, and Lugo). Participants: 3,729 people older than 64 years with no cardiovascular diseases (CVD) at baseline. Measurements: Suspected fatal and nonfatal CVD (both coronary heart disease and stroke) were investigated annually and confirmed using the WHO-MONICA criteria. All participants were followed-up on until occurrence of a first CVD event, until death, or until December 31, 2015. Results: Age was the strongest predictor of CVD at 10 years in both men and women. In men, variables associated with CVD were high blood pressure treatment (HR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.067-1.710), diabetes (HR: 1.359; 95% CI: 0.997-1.852), and smoking (HR: 1.207; 95% CI: 0.945-1.541) and in women, the variables were smoking (HR: 1.881; 95% CI: 1.356-2.609) and diabetes (HR: 1.285; 95% CI: 0.967-1.707). Total cholesterol did not increase the risk of CVD in men or women. However, total cholesterol levels >200 mg/dL were inversely associated with 10-year risk of CVD in men and women. Conclusions: In elderly Spanish men, total CVD at 10 years is significantly increased by age, diabetes, and antihypertensive treatment and in elderly Spanish women by diabetes and smoking. Total cholesterol levels did not increase the risk of CVD, particularly in males. [Resumen] Antecedentes y objetivos. La estimación del riesgo cardiovascular en personas mayores de 70 años es problemática. La mayoría de las escalas se han creado basándose en cohortes de personas de mediana edad, con una representación insuficiente de los adultos de más edad. El poder predictivo de los factores de riesgo cardiovascular clásicos disminuye con la edad. El objetivo de este estudio es desarrollar una escala específica para estimar el riesgo cardiovascular de la población anciana española. Métodos. Este estudio se realizó en una cohorte poblacional establecida en 1995. Marco: tres zonas geográficas de España (Madrid, Ávila y Lugo). Participantes: 3.729 personas mayores de 64 años sin enfermedades cardiovasculares (ECV) al inicio del seguimiento. Mediciones: Se investigaron anualmente las sospechas de ECV mortal y no mortal (cardiopatía coronaria e ictus) y se confirmaron usando los criterios del proyecto MONICA de la OMS. Se siguió a todos los participantes hasta que apareció el primer episodio de ECV, hasta su muerte o hasta el 31 de diciembre de 2015. Resultados. La edad fue el factor predictivo más potente de ECV a los 10 años en ambos sexos. Las variables asociadas con ECV en los varones fueron el tratamiento de la hipertensión arterial (HR: 1,35; IC al 95%: 1,067−1,710), la diabetes (HR: 1,359; IC al 95%: 0,997−1,852) y el tabaquismo (HR: 1,207; IC al 95%: 0,945−1,541) y en las mujeres, el tabaquismo (HR: 1,881; IC al 95%: 1,356−2,609) y la diabetes (HR: 1,285; IC al 95%: 0,967−1,707). El colesterol-total no aumentó el riesgo de ECV, ni en varones ni en mujeres. Sin embargo, las concentraciones de colesterol total > 200 mg/dL se asociaron inversamente al riesgo de ECV a los 10 años, tanto en varones como en mujeres. Conclusiones. La ECV total a los 10 años aumenta significativamente en los varones españoles de edad avanzada con la edad, la diabetes y el tratamiento antihipertensivo y en las mujeres con la diabetes y el tabaquismo. Los niveles de colesterol total no aumentaron el riesgo de ECV, sobre todo en los varones. Instituto de Salud Carlos III; FIS 93/012 Instituto de Salud Carlos III; FIS 96/1993 Instituto de Salud Carlos III; FIS 02/0896 Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (España); PB/255-Co4

BACKGROUND: Multimorbidity is common in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. Charlson comorbidity index (CCI) is used to evaluate multimorbidity in the general population. Limited long-term data are available on the relationship between CCI and AF. We examined the association between CCI, anticoagulation control and outcomes in AF patients.METHODS: We studied 1956 from the FANTASIIA registry, an observational Spanish nationwide study on anticoagulated AF patients. Time in therapeutic range (TTR) was used to evaluate anticoagulation control. Stroke/TIA, major bleeding, cardiovascular (CV) death and all-cause death were study outcomes.RESULTS: Mean ± SD CCI was 1.1 ± 1.2. Based on CCI quartiles, patients were categorised in four groups: 676 (34.6%) in Q1 (CCI 0); 683 (34.9%) in Q2 (CCI 1); 345 (17.6%) in Q3 (CCI 2); and 252 (12.9%) in Q4 (CCI ≥3). In vitamin K antagonist treated patients, the highest CCI quartile was inversely associated with TTR >70% (odds ratio:0.67, 95% confidence interval (CI):0.45-0.99). During observation, a progressively higher rate of major bleeding, CV death and all-cause death was found across the quartiles (all p < 0.001). The final Cox multivariable regression analysis showed an association with increasing risk for major bleeding occurrence in Q3 and Q4 (hazard ratio (HR):1.69, 95%CI:1.00-2.87 and HR:1.92, 95%CI:1.08-3.41). An increasing risk for all-cause death and CV death was found across CCI quartiles.CONCLUSIONS: In a nationwide contemporary cohort of AF anticoagulated patients, multimorbidity was inversely associated with good anticoagulation control. A progressively higher risk for major bleeding, CV death and all-cause death was found across CCI quartiles.

[Abstract] Introduction and objectives. Short-term mechanical circulatory support is frequently used as a bridge to heart transplant in Spain. The epidemiology and prognostic impact of infectious complications in these patients are unknown. Methods. Systematic description of the epidemiology of infectious complications and analysis of their prognostic impact in a multicenter, retrospective registry of patients treated with short-term mechanical devices as a bridge to urgent heart transplant from 2010 to 2015 in 16 Spanish hospitals. Results. We studied 249 patients, of which 87 (34.9%) had a total of 102 infections. The most frequent site was the respiratory tract (n = 47; 46.1%). Microbiological confirmation was obtained in 78 (76.5%) episodes, with a total of 100 causative agents, showing a predominance of gram-negative bacteria (n = 58, 58%). Compared with patients without infection, those with infectious complications showed higher mortality during the support period (25.3% vs 12.3%, P = .009) and a lower probability of receiving a transplant (73.6% vs 85.2%, P = .025). In-hospital posttransplant mortality was similar in the 2 groups (with infection: 28.3%; without infection: 23.4%; P = .471). Conclusions. Patients supported with temporary devices as a bridge to heart transplant are exposed to a high risk of infectious complications, which are associated with higher mortality during the organ waiting period. [Resumen] Introducción y objetivos. El uso de dispositivos de asistencia circulatoria mecánica de corta duración como puente a trasplante es frecuente en España. Se desconocen la epidemiología y la repercusión de las complicaciones infecciosas en estos pacientes. Métodos. Descripción sistemática de la epidemiología y análisis de la repercusión pronóstica de las complicaciones infecciosas en un registro multicéntrico retrospectivo de pacientes tratados con dispositivos de asistencia circulatoria mecánica de corta duración como puente a trasplante cardiaco urgente entre 2010 y 2015 en 16 hospitales españoles. Resultados. Se estudió a 249 pacientes; 87 (34,9%) de ellos tuvieron un total de 102 infecciones. La vía respiratoria fue la localización más frecuente (n = 47; 46,1%). En 78 casos (76,5%) se obtuvo confirmación microbiológica; se aislaron en total 100 gérmenes causales, con predominio de bacterias gramnegativas (n = 58, 58%). Los pacientes con complicaciones infecciosas presentaron mayor mortalidad durante el periodo de asistencia circulatoria mecánica (el 25,3 frente al 12,3%; p = 0,009) y menor probabilidad de recibir un trasplante (el 73,6 frente al 85,2%; p = 0,025) que los pacientes sin infección. La mortalidad posoperatoria tras el trasplante fue similar en ambos grupos (con infección, el 28,3%; sin infección, el 23,4%; p = 0,471). Conclusiones. Los pacientes tratados con dispositivos de asistencia circulatoria mecánica de corta duración como puente al trasplante cardiaco están expuestos a un alto riesgo de complicaciones infecciosas, las cuales se asocian con una mayor mortalidad en espera del órgano.

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Los valores plasmaticos de galectina-3 (Gal-3) estan elevados y se correlacionan con la mortalidad total y cardiovascular en pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca, pero su correlacion con el pronostico tras el trasplante cardiaco (TxC) es desconocida. El objetivo fue describir la tendencia evolutiva y el valor pronostico de este biomarcador tras el TxC. Metodos Mediante enzimoinmunoensayo, se midieron las concentraciones plasmaticas de Gal-3 en muestras de suero de 122 receptores de TxC, antes y 1, 3, 6 y 12 meses despues de este. Mediante regresion de Cox se analizo el valor pronostico del valor plasmatico de Gal-3 a los 12 meses del TxC. El objetivo primario del estudio fue la variable combinada muerte o disfuncion del injerto. Resultados Las concentraciones de Gal-3 disminuyeron progresivamente durante el primer ano tras el TxC (medianas: pretrasplante, 19,1 ng/ml; 1 ano postrasplante, 14,6 ng/ml; p Conclusiones Las concentraciones plasmaticas de Gal-3 disminuyeron progresivamente durante el primer ano tras el TxC. Un valor plasmatico elevado de Gal-3 1 ano tras el TxC se correlaciono con un pronostico adverso.

[Abstract] Introduction and objectives: Circulating galectin-3 (Gal-3) is elevated and significantly correlates with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with heart failure. However, the relationship between serum Gal-3 and heart transplant (HT) outcomes is unclear. The aim of this study was to describe the longitudinal trend and prognostic value of Gal-3 levels after HT. Methods: Banked serum samples were available from 122 HT recipients, collected before transplant and at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months posttransplant. Gal-3 levels in these serum samples were measured by enzyme immune assay. Multivariable Cox regression was performed to determine the prognostic value of 12-month posttransplant Gal-3 serum levels. The primary endpoint was the composite variable all-cause death or graft failure over long-term posttransplant follow-up. Results: Circulating Gal-3 concentration steadily decreased during the first year after HT (median values: pretransplant, 19.1 ng/mL; 1-year posttransplant, 14.6 ng/mL; P

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES To analyze differences between sexes in the clinical management of patients presenting with symptoms of chest pain and/or palpitations within a population-based study. METHODS The OFRECE study included a random sample of 8400 individuals from the Spanish population aged 40 years and older; 1132 (13.5%) had previously consulted for chest pain and 1267 (15.1%) had consulted for palpitations and were included in the present study. We calculated both the crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) of undergoing certain tests and the results of consultations by sex. Adjustment was performed by classic cardiovascular risk factors, a personal history of cardiovascular disease, and a diagnosis of stable angina or atrial fibrillation confirmed in the OFRECE study in each case. RESULTS No differences were observed in history of consultation for chest pain between women and men (13% vs 14.1%; P=.159) but differences were found in palpitations (19% vs 10.4%, respectively; P

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos En un estudio de base poblacional, se analizaron las posibles diferencias en funcion del sexo en la atencion al dolor toracico o las palpitaciones como motivo de consulta. Metodos El estudio OFRECE incluyo una muestra aleatoria de la poblacion espanola de 8.400 participantes de edad ≥ 40 anos, de los que 1.132 (13,5%) tenian antecedentes de consulta por dolor en el pecho y 1.267 (15,1%), por palpitaciones y se incluyen en este estudio. Se calculo la odds ratio (OR) de que se practicaran determinadas pruebas y se comunicaran los resultados de las consultas en relacion con el hecho de ser mujer, tanto brutas como ajustadas por los factores de riesgo cardiovascular clasicos, antecedentes de enfermedad cardiovascular y diagnostico de angina estable o fibrilacion auricular confirmado en este estudio en cada caso. Resultados No se observaron diferencias en los antecedentes de consulta por dolor toracico entre mujeres y varones (el 13 y el 14,1%; p = 0,159) y si en las consultas por palpitaciones (el 19,0 y el 10,4% respectivamente; p Conclusiones Este trabajo no confirma un sesgo en razon del sexo en la atencion a estos sintomas, aunque no es descartable completamente un sesgo de genero en el diagnostico confirmado en el estudio que limite su capacidad para identificar diferencias en la atencion a las pacientes.

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Las anomalias electrocardiograficas son muy comunes. El proposito de este estudio es analizar la prevalencia de hallazgos electrocardiograficos anormales y su significado clinico en la poblacion general espanola de 40 o mas anos. Metodos Subanalisis del estudio OFRECE; se selecciono una muestra representativa de la poblacion espanola de 40 o mas anos. Se dispuso de datos clinicos y electrocardiograma de todos los participantes. La lectura de los electrocardiogramas fue centralizada, los evaluaron de manera independiente 2 cardiologos expertos y se consulto con un tercero en caso de desacuerdo, para llegar al diagnostico final por consenso. Antes de iniciarse la lectura de los electrocardiogramas, se establecieron estrictamente los criterios diagnosticos de cada una de las anomalias analizadas. Se estudiaron la prevalencia y los factores clinicos asociados con: crecimiento de cavidades, trastornos de conduccion, anomalias de la repolarizacion, ondas Q patologicas, extrasistolia auricular y ventricular y preexcitacion. Resultados Se evaluo a 8.343 individuos (media de edad, 59,2 anos; el 52,4% mujeres). Solo 4.074 (51,2%) presentaron un electrocardiograma rigurosamente normal. Las anomalias mas frecuentes fueron las alteraciones inespecificas de la repolarizacion (16%) asociadas con enfermedad coronaria y fibrilacion auricular; el bloqueo de rama derecha (8,1%) asociado con enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva cronica; el hemibloqueo anterosuperior izquierdo (6,5%) relacionado con la hipertension y la insuficiencia cardiaca y el intervalo PR largo (3,7%) se asociaron con enfermedad coronaria. Conclusiones Las anomalias electrocardiograficas son muy comunes en la poblacion general de 40 o mas anos. Tan solo la mitad de la poblacion tenia un electrocardiograma rigurosamente normal.

[Resumen] Introducción y objetivos. En España, el balón de contrapulsación intraaórtico (BCIA) se ha usado frecuentemente como puente al trasplante cardiaco (TxC) urgente. El propósito es analizar los resultados de esta estrategia. Métodos. Se realizó una revisión retrospectiva caso por caso de los registros clínicos de 281 pacientes adultos listados para TxC urgente asistidos con BCIA en 16 hospitales españoles entre 2010 y 2015. Se analizaron la supervivencia antes y después del trasplante y la incidencia de eventos adversos. Resultados. Se trasplantó a 194 pacientes (69%; IC95%, 63,3-74,4) y 20 (7,1%; IC95%, 4,4-10,8) fallecieron durante la asistencia, cuya duración media fue de 10,9 ± 9,7 días. El BCIA se explantó antes de obtener un órgano a 32 pacientes (11,4%). En 35 pacientes (12,5%; IC95%, 8,8-16,9) se implantó un dispositivo de asistencia circulatoria mecánica completa. El tiempo en la lista de espera urgente se incrementó desde 5,9 ± 6,3 días en 2010 hasta 15 ± 11,7 días en 2015 (p = 0,001). La supervivencia a 30 días y a 1 y 5 años tras el TxC fue del 88,1% (IC95%, 85,7-90,5), 76% (IC95%, 72,9-79,1) y 67,8% (IC95%, 63,7-71,9) respectivamente. La tasa de incidencia de eventos adversos mayores —disfunción del BCIA, ictus, hemorragia o infección— durante la asistencia fue de 26 (IC95%, 20,6-32,4) eventos/1.000 pacientes-día. La tasa de incidencia de explante del BCIA por complicaciones fue de 7,2 (IC95%, 4,5-10,8) casos/1.000 pacientes-día. Conclusiones. En el contexto de listas de espera cortas, el BCIA puede utilizarse como puente al TxC urgente con resultados aceptables. Esta estrategia conlleva una incidencia significativa de eventos adversos. [Abstract] Introduction and objectives. In Spain, intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) has been used frequently as a bridge to urgent heart transplant (HT). We sought to analyze the clinical outcomes of this strategy. Methods. We conducted a case-by-case, retrospective review of clinical records of 281 adult patients listed for urgent HT under IABP support in 16 Spanish institutions from 2010 to 2015. Pre- and post-transplant survival and adverse clinical events were analyzed. Results. A total of 194 (69%, 95%CI, 63.3-74.4) patients were transplanted and 20 (7.1%, 95%CI, 4.4-10.8) died during a mean period of IABP support of 10.9 ± 9.7 days. IABP support was withdrawn before an organ became available in 32 (11.4%) patients. Thirty-five (12.5%, 95%CI, 8.8-16.9) patients transitioned from IABP to full-support mechanical devices. Mean urgent waiting list time increased from 5.9 ± 6.3 days in 2010 to 15 ± 11.7 days in 2015 (P = .001). Post-transplant survival rates at 30-days, 1-year, and 5-years were 88.1% (95%CI, 85.7-90.5), 76% (95%CI, 72.9-79.1), and 67.8% (95%CI, 63.7-71.9), respectively. The incidence rate of major adverse clinical outcomes—device dysfunction, stroke, bleeding or infection—during IABP support was 26 (95%CI, 20.6-32.4) episodes per 1000 patient-days. The incidence rate of IABP explantation due to complications was 7.2 (95%CI, 4.5-10.8) cases per 1000 patient-days. Conclusions. In a setting of short waiting list times, IABP can be used to bridge candidates to urgent HT with acceptable postoperative results, but there were significant rates of adverse clinical events during support.

Introducción y objetivos: Analizar el impacto del lactato sérico en receptores de trasplante cardiaco urgente en asistencia circulatoria mecánica de corta duración preoperatoria. Métodos: Se realizó un subanálisis de un registro multicéntrico español basado en pacientes incluidos en «urgencia grado 0» para trasplante cardiaco con asistencia circulatoria mecánica preoperatoria de corta duración entre 2010 y 2015. Se seleccionó a los receptores de trasplante con cifras preoperatorias de lactato conocidas. El desenlace principal fue la supervivencia 1 año tras el trasplante. Resultados: Se estudió a 177 receptores de trasplante cardiaco urgente, de los que 90 necesitaron asistencia preoperatoria con oxigenador extracorpóreo de membrana venoarterial, 51 con asistencia ventricular izquierda y 36 con asistencia biventricular. De ellos, 44 (25%) presentaban hiperlactatemia antes del trasplante (≥ 2 mmol/l). En el análisis multivariable, la cifra de lactato sérico resultó predictora independiente de mortalidad tras el trasplante (cada 0,1 mmol/l, HR ajustada = 1,02; IC95%, 1,01-1,03; p = 0,007). La supervivencia estimada al año del trasplante cardiaco fue del 53,1% (IC95%, 45,3-60,9) en los pacientes con hiperlactactemia preoperatoria y el 75,6% (IC95%, 71,8-79,4) en los pacientes sin hiperlactatemia (HR ajustada = 1,94; IC95%, 1,04-3,63; p = 0,039). El impacto pronóstico de la hiperlactatemia fue significativo en los pacientes asistidos con oxigenador extracorpóreo de membrana venoarterial, pero no en aquellos con dispositivos de asistencia ventricular. Conclusiones: Los valores preoperatorios de ácido láctico son un potente factor pronóstico independiente en receptores de trasplante cardiaco urgente. Introduction and objectives: To study the prognostic value of serum lactate in patients under temporary preoperative mechanical circulatory support who underwent urgent heart transplant. Methods: We conducted a subanalysis of a Spanish multicenter registry recording data on patients under temporary mechanical circulatory support listed for highly urgent heart transplant from 2010 to 2015. Participants selected for the present study were those who received a transplant and who had known preoperative serum lactate levels. The main study outcome was 1-year survival after transplant. Results: A total of 177 heart transplant recipients were studied; preoperatively, 90 were supported on venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, 51 on temporary left ventricular assist devices, and 36 on temporary biventricular assist devices. Preoperative hyperlactatemia (≥ 2 mmol/L) was present in 44 (25%) patients. On multivariable analysis, pretransplant serum lactate was identified as an independent predictor of 1-year posttransplant survival (adjusted HR per 0.1 mmol/L, 1.02; 95%CI, 1.01-1.03; P = .007). One-year posttransplant survival was 53.1% (95%CI, 45.3-60.9) in patients with preoperative hyperlactatemia and 75.6% (95%CI, 71.8-79.4) in those without preoperative hyperlactatemia (adjusted HR, 1.94; 95%CI, 1.04-3.63; P = .039). Preoperative hyperlactatemia correlated with adverse outcomes in patients supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, but not in patients supported on ventricular assist devices. Conclusions: Preoperative serum lactate is a strong independent predictor of worse outcomes in patients undergoing urgent heart transplant on short-term mechanical circulatory support. Sin financiación 4.642 JCR (2019) Q1, 30/138 Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems 0.473 SJR (2019) Q3, 196/362 Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine No data IDR 2019 UEM

[Abstract] Background and objective. Patients with heart failure are classified into three phenotypes based on left ventricular ejection fraction. This work aimed to compare the clinical profile, treatment, prognosis, and causes of death of patients with heart failure and reduced (

Aim: To derive a new clinical score to improve the prediction of those at risk of poor International Normalized Ratio control among patients with atrial fibrillation taking vitamin K antagonists. Materials & methods: The score was calculated using PAULA database and validated in the FANTASIIA population. Results: The DAFNE score (cardiovascular Disease, concomitant treatment with Amiodarone, Food/dietary transgression and taking ≥7 pills daily, fEemale sex) score was related to a higher probability of poor International Normalized Ratio control. C-indexes were 0.611 and 0.576 (De Long test, p = 0.007) for the DAFNE and SAMe-TT2R2 scores, respectively. Conclusion: The DAFNE score is a new clinical score which may potentially help determine those patients with atrial fibrillation who are at high risk of poor anticoagulation control with vitamin K antagonists. Patients with atrial fibrillation are often treated with a group of drugs called vitamin K antagonists. However, taking these drugs can result in poor anticoagulation control in certain patients. This paper aims to find a new way to predict which patients might have a higher risk of poor anticoagulation control. The authors suggest that the DAFNE score, which is shown to be bigger if there is a greater chance of poor anticoagulation control, could be used to help predict patients who might be at risk.

[Resumen] Introducción y objetivos. Los estudios económicos pueden ayudar a tomar decisiones en el tratamiento de la enfermedad multivaso en el infarto. Se planteó realizar una evaluación económica del ensayo clínico CROSS-AMI (Complete Revascularization or Stress Echocardiography in Patients With Multivessel Disease and ST-Segment Elevation Acute Myocardial Infarction). Métodos. Se realizó un análisis de comparación de costes económicos de las estrategias (revascularización angiográfica completa [RCom] y revascularización selectiva guiada por isquemia en ecocardiograma de estrés [RSel]) comparadas en el ensayo clínico CROSS-AMI (N = 306), derivados de la hospitalización inicial y del primer año de seguimiento, según las tarifas oficiales vigentes en nuestro sistema de salud. Resultados. El coste de la hospitalización inicial resultó superior en el grupo de RCom que en la rama de RSel (19.657,9 ± 6.236,8 frente a 14.038,7 ± 4.958,5 euros; p < 0,001). No hubo diferencias entre ambos grupos en el coste del primer año de seguimiento (RCom, 2.423,5 ± 4.568,0 euros; Rsel, 2.653,9 ± 5.709,1 euros; p = 0,697). El coste total fue 22.081,3 ± 7.505,6 euros en la rama de RCom y 16.692,6 ± 7.669,9 euros en la rama de RSel (p < 0,001). Conclusiones. En el ensayo clínico CROSS-AMI, el sobrecoste inicial de la RCom frente a la RSel no se vio compensado por un ahorro significativo en el seguimiento. La RSel parece ser una estrategia más eficiente que la RCom para los pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo con elevación del segmento ST y enfermedad multivaso tratados mediante angioplastia emergente. [Abstract] Introduction and objectives. Economic studies may help decision making in the management of multivessel disease in the setting of myocardial infarction. We sought to perform an economic evaluation of CROSS-AMI (Complete Revascularization or Stress Echocardiography in Patients With Multivessel Disease and ST-Segment Elevation Acute Myocardial Infarction) randomized clinical trial. Methods. We performed a cost minimization analysis for the strategies (complete angiographic revascularization [ComR] and selective stress echocardiography–guided revascularization [SelR]) compared in the CROSS-AMI clinical trial (N = 306), attributable the initial hospitalization and readmissions during the first year of follow-up, using current rates for health services provided by our health system. Results. The index hospitalization costs were higher in the ComR group than in SelR arm (19 657.9 ± 6236.8 € vs 14 038.7 ± 4958.5 €; P < .001). There were no differences in the costs of the first year of follow-up rehospitalizations between both groups for (ComR 2423.5 ± 4568.0 vs SelR 2653.9 ± 5709.1; P = .697). Total cost was 22 081.3 ± 7505.6 for the ComR arm and 16 692.6 ± 7669.9 for the SelR group (P < .001). Conclusions. In the CROSS-AMI trial, the initial extra economic costs of the ComR versus SelR were not offset by significant savings during follow-up. SelR seems to be more efficient than ComR in patients with ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome and multivessel disease treated by emergent angioplasty.

Observational study [Abstract] Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) and peripheral artery disease (PAD) are common conditions that increase cardiovascular risk. We determined the association between PAD and prognosis in a cohort of real-world patients receiving oral anticoagulant therapy for nonvalvular AF. Methods: We prospectively included 1956 patients (mean age 73.8 ± 9.5 years, 44.0% women) receiving oral anticoagulant therapy for AF. Clinical characteristics were collected at baseline. Patients were followed for a period of 3 years. Survival analysis and multivariable regression analyses were performed to assess variables related to death, stroke, bleeding, myocardial infarction and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Results: Patients with PAD (n = 118; 6%) exhibited higher rates of cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular diseases. After 3 years of follow-up, there were a total of 255 deaths (no PAD 233, vs PAD 22), 45 strokes (43 vs 2), 146 major bleedings (136 vs 10) and 168 MACE (148 vs 20). On univariate analysis, there was a higher risk of cardiovascular mortality (2.02%/year no PAD vs 4.08%/year PAD, P = .02), myocardial infarction (0.99%/year no PAD vs 2.43%/year PAD, P = .02) and MACE (3.18%/year no PAD vs 6.99%/year PAD, P < .01). There was no statistically significant association with these events after multivariable adjustment. Conclusions: In a large cohort of anticoagulated patients with AF, the presence of PAD represents a higher risk subgroup and is associated with worse crude outcomes. The exact contribution of the PAD independently of other cardiovascular diseases or risk factors requires further investigation. Instituto de Salud Carlos III; RD16/11/00420 Instituto de Salud Carlos III; RD12/0042/0068 Instituto de Salud Carlos III; RD12/0042/0010 Instituto de Salud Carlos III; RD12/0042/0069 Instituto de Salud Carlos III; RD12/0042/0063

BACKGROUND:Atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with diabetes (DM) are at increased risk of cardiovascular events and have higher related morbidity and mortality. PURPOSE:To compare clinical characteristics, cardiovascular adverse outcomes and quality of anticoagulation in AF patients with and without DM. METHODS:AF patients from the Spanish national, multicentric, prospective FANTASIIA registry were included. Patients received oral anticoagulation (vitamin K antagonists (VKA) or direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC)) for at least 6 months before inclusion. Baseline clinical characteristics and comorbidities were recorded. After 2-years follow-up, the association between adverse events and the presence of DM was evaluated. RESULTS:1956 individuals (mean age 73.8 ± 9.5 years, 56% male) were analysed; of these, 574 (29.3%) had DM. Diabetic patients had increased prevalence of other risk factors such as hypertension (90.6% vs 76.1%; p

Objective: To describe major events at follow up in octogenarian patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) according to anticoagulant treatment: direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) versus vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). Methods: A total of 578 anticoagulated patients aged ≥80 years with AF were included in a prospective, observational, multicenter study. Basal features, embolic events (stroke and systemic embolism), severe bleedings, and all-cause mortality at follow up were investigated according to the anticoagulant treatment received. Results: Mean age was 84.0 ± 3.4 years, 56% were women. Direct oral anticoagulants were prescribed to 123 (21.3%) patients. Compared with 455 (78.7%) patients treated with VKAs, those treated with DOACs presented a lower frequency of permanent AF (52.9% vs 61.6%, P = .01), cancer history (4.9% vs 10.9%, P = .046), renal failure (21.1% vs 32.2%, P = .02), and left ventricular dysfunction (2.4% vs 8.0%, P = .03); and higher frequency of previous stroke (26.0% vs 16.6%, P = .02) and previous major bleeding (8.1% vs 3.6%, P = .03). There were no significant differences in Charlson, CHA2DS2VASc, nor HAS-BLED scores. At 3-year follow up, rates of embolic events, severe bleedings, and all-cause death (per 100 patients-year) were similar in both groups (DOACs vs VKAs): 0.34 vs 1.35 ( P = .15), 3.45 vs 4.41 ( P = .48), and 8.2 vs 11.0 ( P = .18), respectively, without significant differences after multivariate analysis (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.25, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.03-1.93, P = .19; HR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.44-1.76, P = .72 and HR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.53-1.33, P = .46, respectively). Conclusion: In this “real-world” registry, the differences in major events rates in octogenarians with AF were not statistically significant in those treated with DOACs versus VKAs.

[Abstract] Background: While many risk factors for Atrial Fibrillation (AF) have been identified, there are important differences in their relative impact between sexes. The aim of our study was to investigate the influence of sex as a long-term predictor of adverse events in “real world” AF patients treated with direct oral anticoagulants. Methods: The FANTASIIA registry is a prospective, national and multicentric study including outpatients with anticoagulated AF patients. Baseline characteristics and adverse events at 3 years of follow-up were collected and classified by sex. Cox multivariate analysis was performed to investigate the role of sex in major events and composite outcomes. Results: A total of 1956 patients were included in the study. 43.9% of them were women, with a mean age of 73.8 ± 9.4 years (women were older 76.5 ± 7.9 vs 71.7 ± 10.1, p

Background Obesity and atrial fibrillation ( AF ) frequently coexist and independently increase mortality. We sought to assess the association between obesity and adverse events in patients receiving oral anticoagulants for AF . Methods and Results Consecutive AF outpatients receiving anticoagulant agents (both vitamin K antagonists and direct oral anticoagulants) were recruited into the FANTASIIA (Atrial fibrillation: influence of the level and type of anticoagulation on the incidence of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke) registry. This observational, multicenter, and prospective registry of AF patients analyzes the quality of anticoagulation, incidence of events, and differences between oral anticoagulant therapies. We analyzed baseline patient characteristics according to body mass index, normal: 2 , overweight: 25–30 kg/m 2 , and obese: ≥30 kg/m 2 ), assessing all‐cause mortality, stroke, major bleeding and major adverse cardiovascular events (a composite of ischemic stroke, myocardial infarction, and total mortality) at 3 years’ follow‐up. In this secondary prespecified substudy, the association of weight on prognosis was evaluated. We recruited 1956 patients (56% men, mean age 73.8±9.4 years): 358 (18.3%) had normal body mass index, 871 (44.5%) were overweight, and 727 (37.2%) were obese. Obese patients were younger ( P P =0.42). After a median follow‐up of 1070 days, 255 patients died (13%), 45 had a stroke (2.3%), 146 a major bleeding episode (7.5%) and 168 a major adverse cardiovascular event (8.6%). Event rates were similar between groups for total mortality ( P =0.29), stroke ( P =0.90), major bleeding ( P =0.31), and major adverse cardiovascular events ( P =0.24). On multivariate Cox analysis, body mass index was not independently associated with all‐cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, stroke, major bleeding, or major adverse cardiovascular events. Conclusions In this prospective cohort of patients anticoagulated for AF , obesity was highly prevalent and was associated with more comorbidities, but not with poor prognosis.

Background: There is an emerging field underlying the myocardial infarction (MI) with non-obstruc­tive coronary arteries (MINOCA). The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of psycho-emotional disorders and social habits in MINOCA patients. Methods: The study included 95 consecutive patients diagnosed of MINOCA and 178 patients with MI and obstructive lesions. MINOCA patients were included when they fulfilled the three main criteria: accomplishment of the Third Universal Definition of Myocardial Infarction, absence of obstructive coronary arteries and no clinically overt specific cause for the acute presentation. Results: MINOCA patients had a higher frequency of previous psychiatric illnesses than the obstructive coronary arteries group (29.7% vs. 12.9%, p = 0.001). MINOCA patients recognized emotional stress in 75.7% of the cases, while only 32.1% of the obstructive related group did (p < 0.001). The relation­ship remained after excluding takotsubo syndrome from the analysis (26 cases, 27.4%): psychiatric diseases (27.9% vs. 12.9%, p < 0.01) and recognition of emotional stress (70.8% vs. 32.1%, p < 0.001). Social habits which could act as stress modulating showed no significant relation with MINOCA. Conclusions: Psycho-emotional disorders are related to MINOCA and they could act as risk fac­tor. This relationship is maintained after excluding takotsubo from the analysis. (Cardiol J 2018; 25, 1: 24–31)

Background Heart transplantation (HT) is a well-established lifesaving treatment for endstage cardiac failure. Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) represents one of the main problems after HT because of its diagnostic complexity and the poor evidence for supporting treatments. Complement cascade and B-cells play a key role in AMR and contribute to graft damage. This study explored the importance of variants in genes related to complement pathway and B-cell biology in HT and AMR in donors and in donor-recipient pairs.Methods and Results:Genetic variants in 112 genes (51 complement and 61 B-cell biology genes) were analyzed on next-generation sequencing in 28 donor-recipient pairs, 14 recipients with and 14 recipients without AMR. Statistical analysis was performed with SNPStats, R, and EPIDAT3.1. We identified one single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in donors in genes related to B-cell biology,interleukin-4 receptor subunitα (p.Ile75Val-IL4Rα), which correlated with the development of AMR. Moreover, in the analysis of recipient-donor genotype discrepancies, we identified another SNP, in this case inadenosine deaminase(ADA; p.Val178(p=)), which was related to B-cell biology, associated with the absence of AMR. Conclusions Donor polymorphisms and recipient-donor discrepancies in genes related to the biology of B-cells, could have an important role in the development of AMR. In contrast, no variants in donor or in donor-recipient pairs in complement pathways seem to have an impact on AMR.

To analyze the clinical profile and therapeutic strategy in atrial fibrillation (AF) according to gender in a contemporaneous patient cohort a prospective, multicenter observational study was performed on consecutive patients diagnosed with AF and assessed by cardiology units in the region of Galicia (Spain). A total of 1007 patients were included, of which 32.3% were women. The mean age of the women was significantly greater than that of the men (71.6 versus 65.7 years, p &lt, 0.001), with a higher prevalence of hypertension (HTN) and valve disease. Women more often reported symptoms related to arrhythmia (28.2% in EHRA class I versus 36.4% in men), with a poorer level of symptoms (EHRA classes IIb and III). Thromboembolic risk was significantly higher among women (CHA2DS2-VASc 3 ± 1.3 versus 2 ± 1.5), in the same way as bleeding risk (HAS-BLED 0.83 ± 0.78 versus 0.64 ± 0.78) (p &lt, 0.001), and women more often received anticoagulation therapy (94.1% versus 87.6%, p = 0.001). Rhythm control strategies proved significantly less frequent in women (55.8% versus 66.6%, p = 0.001), with a lesser electrical cardioversion (ECV) rate (18.4% versus 27.3%, p = 0.002). Perceived health status was poorer in women. Women were older and presented greater comorbidity than men, with a greater thromboembolic and bleeding risk. Likewise, rhythm control strategies were less frequent than in men, despite the fact that women had poorer perceived quality of life and were more symptomatic.

Background In Spain, listing for high-urgent heart transplantation is allowed for critically ill candidates not weanable from temporary mechanical circulatory support (T-MCS). We sought to analyse the clinical outcomes of this strategy. Methods and results We conducted a case-by-case, retrospective review of clinical records of 291 adult patients listed for high-urgent heart transplantation under temporary devices from 2010 to 2015 in 16 Spanish institutions. Survival after listing and adverse clinical events were studied. At the time of listing, 169 (58%) patients were supported on veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO), 70 (24%) on temporary left ventricular assist devices (T-LVAD) and 52 (18%) on temporary biventricular assist devices (T-BiVAD). Seven patients transitioned from VA-ECMO to temporary ventricular assist devices while on the waiting list. Mean time on T-MCS was 13.1 ± 12.6 days. Mean time from listing to transplantation was 7.6 ± 8.5 days. Overall, 230 (79%) patients were transplanted and 54 (18.6%) died during MCS. In-hospital postoperative mortality after transplantation was 33.3%, 11.9% and 26.2% for patients bridged on VA-ECMO, T-LVAD and T-BiVAD, respectively (P = 0.008). Overall survival from listing to hospital discharge was 54.4%, 78.6% and 55.8%, respectively (P = 0.002). T-LVAD support was independently associated with a lower risk of death over the first year after listing (hazard ratio 0.52, 95% confidence interval 0.30–0.92). Patients treated with VA-ECMO showed the highest incidence rate of adverse clinical events associated with T-MCS. Conclusion Temporary devices may be used to bridge critically ill candidates directly to heart transplantation in a setting of short waiting list times, as is the case of Spain. In our series, bridging with T-LVAD was associated with more favourable outcomes than bridging with T-BiVAD or VA-ECMO.

Background Despite of the effectiveness and safety profile of Non-vitamin K Antagonists Oral Anticoagulants (NOACs) even in real-world (RW) Atrial Fibrillation (AF) patients, Vitamin K Antagonists (VKAs) have remained widely used in clinical practice worldwide but the comparison with acenocoumarol therapy in RW is unknown. Purpose To estimate the potential absolute benefit in clinical adverse events if the AF patients anticoagulated with VKA therapy had been treated with NOACs. Methods We analyzed anticoagulated AF patients who were prospectively recruited into the multicentre FANTASIIA registry. Patients were treated with VKAs for at least 6 months prior to inclusion. The estimation of clinical adverse events avoided was calculated applying absolute risk reductions, relative risk reductions and hazard ratios from the meta-analysis of RW use of NOACs relative to VKAs. Results We analyzed 1,470 patients under VKA therapy (mean age 74.1±9.5 years; 56.4% male). Stroke rate with acenocoumarol treatment was 0.88%/year. The estimated rates for stroke using NOACs would be 0.80%/year for Dabigatran 150 mg; 0.76%/year for Rivaroxaban and 0.74%/year for Apixaban instead of VKA. No significant differences were observed between the different NOACs and VKA in stroke rate. Major bleeding with acenocoumarol was 3.40%/year. The estimated rates for major bleeding using NOACs would be 2.75%/year for Dabigatran 150 mg; 3.37%/year for Rivaroxaban and 2.18%/year for Apixaban instead of VKA. Apixaban was the only NOAC that showed a significant estimated reduction rates (p=0.046). Finally, the all-cause mortality rate with acenocoumarol was 4.69%/year. The estimated rates of all-cause mortality using NOACs would be 3.28%/year for Dabigatran 150mg; 4.88%/year for Rivaroxaban and 2.67%/year for Apixaban. Dabigatran and Apixaban showed significant estimated reduction rates with the highest reduction with Apixaban (Table). Annual Rate reduction of adverse events Conclusion The absolute estimated effect of NOACs in the AF patients anticoagulated with VKA showed a significant reduction in adverse clinical events. Apixaban performed the highest estimated reduction in major bleeding and all-cause mortality in comparison with acenocoumarol.

Background: Recent trials suggest that complete revascularization in patients with acute ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction and multivessel disease is associated with better outcomes than infarct-related artery (IRA)–only revascularization. There are different methods to select non-IRA lesions for revascularization procedures. We assessed the clinical outcomes of complete angiographically guided revascularization versus stress echocardiography–guided revascularization in patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction. Methods: We performed a randomized clinical trial in patients with multivessel disease who underwent a successful percutaneous coronary intervention of the IRA to test differences in prognosis (composite end point included cardiovascular mortality, nonfatal reinfarction, coronary revascularization, and readmission for heart failure after 12 months of follow-up) between complete angiographically guided revascularization (n=154) or stress echocardiography–guided revascularization (n=152) of the non-IRA lesions in an elective procedure before hospital discharge. Results: The trial was prematurely stopped after the inclusion of 77% of the planned study population. As many as 152 (99%) patients in the complete revascularization group and 44 (29%) patients in the selective revascularization group required a percutaneous coronary intervention procedure of a non-IRA lesion before discharge. The primary end point occurred in 21 (14%) patients of the stress echocardiography–guided revascularization group and 22 (14%) patients of the complete angiographically guided revascularization group (hazard ratio, 0.95; 95% CI, 0.52–1.72; P =0.85). Conclusions: In patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction and multivessel disease, stress echocardiography–guided revascularization may not be significantly different to complete angiographically guided revascularization, thereby reducing the need for elective revascularization before hospital discharge. Clinical Trial Registration: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique identifier: NCT01179126.

Background The precise age distribution and calculated stroke risk of screen-detected atrial fibrillation (AF) is not known. Therefore, it is not possible to determine the number needed to screen (NNS) to identify one treatable new AF case (NNS-Rx) (i.e., Class-1 oral anticoagulation [OAC] treatment recommendation) in each age stratum. If the NNS-Rx is known for each age stratum, precise cost-effectiveness and sensitivity simulations can be performed based on the age distribution of the population/region to be screened. Such calculations are required by national authorities and organisations responsible for health system budgets to determine the best age cutoffs for screening programs and decide whether programs of screening should be funded. Therefore, we aimed to determine the exact yield and calculated stroke-risk profile of screen-detected AF and NNS-Rx in 5-year age strata. Methods and findings A systematic review of Medline, Pubmed, and Embase was performed (January 2007 to February 2018), and AF-SCREEN international collaboration members were contacted to identify additional studies. Twenty-four eligible studies were identified that performed a single time point screen for AF in a general ambulant population, including people ≥65 years. Authors from eligible studies were invited to collaborate and share patient-level data. Statistical analysis was performed using random effects logistic regression for AF detection rate, and Poisson regression modelling for CHA2DS2-VASc scores. Nineteen studies (14 countries from a mix of low- to middle- and high-income countries) collaborated, with 141,220 participants screened and 1,539 new AF cases. Pooled yield of screening was greater in males across all age strata. The age/sex-adjusted detection rate for screen-detected AF in ≥65-year-olds was 1.44% (95% CI, 1.13%–1.82%) and 0.41% (95% CI, 0.31%–0.53%) for 70% have ≥1 additional stroke risk factor other than age/sex. Our data, based on the largest number of screen-detected AF collected to date, show the precise relationship between yield and estimated stroke risk profile with age, and strong dependence for NNS-RX on the age distribution of the population to be screened: essential information for precise cost-effectiveness calculations., Nicole Lowres and colleagues report on stroke risk in people with atrial fibrillation detected by screening., Author summary Why was this study done? Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm problem that often has no symptoms, so people are unaware they have this condition. People with atrial fibrillation can have a very high stroke risk if they are not appropriately treated with anticoagulant medications, and this risk increases with age. Screening for atrial fibrillation is recommended in many guidelines, although the precise age distribution and calculated stroke risk of atrial fibrillation detected by screening is not known. Accurate age-specific data are required for cost-effectiveness analysis, to inform the most appropriate age cutoff for screening based on the age distribution of the population to be screened. What did the researchers do and find? Investigators from 19 atrial fibrillation screening studies across the world agreed to collaborate and share patient-level data, providing a combined database of 141,220 people screened and 1,539 screen-detected cases of atrial fibrillation. Our study was able to quantify the yield and stroke risk for atrial fibrillation in 5-year age brackets, showing the exact relationship of how the yield of screening and stroke risk of screen-detected atrial fibrillation increases with age. The yield of screening was not influenced by the screening method used or the recruitment setting, indicating that screening programs can be established based on available resources. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate the precise relationship of the number that need to be screened to identify one new atrial fibrillation case, or one new atrial fibrillation case in whom anticoagulant treatment is guideline recommended, in 5-year age brackets. What do these findings mean? This study demonstrates the high calculated stroke risk of screen-detected AF and the high proportion with at least one additional stroke risk factor other than age or sex. These data allow for accurate simulations of cost-effectiveness of screening, including sensitivity analyses, based on the age distribution of the population to be screened. Ultimately, these data may be used to assist development of health policy around the development of atrial fibrillation screening programs, tailored to the specific health system and resources available.

[Abstract] Introduction. One of the main problems involved in heart transplantation (HT) is antibody-mediated rejection (AMR). Many aspects of AMR are still unresolved, including its etiology, diagnosis and treatment. In this project, we hypothesize that variants in genes involved in B-cell biology in HT patients can yield diagnostic and prognostic information about AMR. Methods. Genetic variants in 61 genes related to B-cell biology were analyzed by next generation sequencing in 46 HT patients, 23 with and 23 without AMR. Results. We identified 3 single nucleotide polymorphisms in ITGA4 gene (c.1845G>A, c.2633A>G, and c.2883C>T) that conformed the haplotype AGT-ITGA4. This haplotype is associated with the development of AMR. Moreover, AMR patients with the haplotype AGT-ITGA4 present lower levels of integrin α-4 in serum samples compared to the reference GAC haplotype in control patients. Conclusion. We can conclude that polymorphisms in genes related to the biology of B-cells could have an important role in the development of AMR. In fact, the AGT haplotype in ITGA4 gene could potentially increase the risk of AMR. Instituto de Salud Carlos III; PI13/02174

Meta-análisis [Abstract] Introduction and objectives: To analyze survival in heart failure (HF) patients treated at a specialized unit. Methods: Prospective cohort-based study of HF patients treated at a specialized unit from 2011 to 2017. Observed 1- and 3-year mortality rates were compared with those predicted by the Meta-Analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure (MAGGIC) risk score. Results: We studied 1280 patients, whose median MAGGIC risk score was 19 [interquartile range, 13-24]. Prescription rates of beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and sacubitril-valsartan were 93%, 67%, 22%, 73%, and 16%, respectively. The MAGGIC risk score showed good discrimination for mortality at 1 year (c-statistic=0.71) and 3 years (c-statistic=0.76). Observed mortality was significantly lower than predicted mortality, both at 1 year (6.2% vs 10.9%; observed/predicted ratio=0.57; P 70 years (29.9% vs 34.7%; observed/predicted ratio=0.86; P=.126) and in patients with ejection fraction> 40% (19.6% vs 20.7%; observed/predicted ratio=0.95; P=.640). Conclusions: Mortality in HF patients treated at a specialized clinic was significantly lower than that predicted by the MAGGIC risk score. [Resumen] Introducción y objetivos. Analizar la supervivencia de los pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca (IC) tratados en una unidad especializada. Métodos. Estudio prospectivo de una cohorte de pacientes con IC tratados en una unidad especializada entre 2011 y 2017. Se comparó la mortalidad observada a 1 y 3 años con la mortalidad pronosticada por la puntuación de riesgo del Meta-Analysis Global Group in Chronic Heart Failure (MAGGIC). Resultados. Se estudió a 1.280 pacientes, con una mediana de la puntuación MAGGIC de 19 [intervalo intercuartílico, 13-24]. Las tasas de prescripción de bloqueadores beta, inhibidores de la enzima de conversión de la angiotensina, antagonistas del receptor de la angiotensina II, antagonistas del receptor de mineralcorticoides y sacubitrilo-valsartán fueron del 93, el 67, el 22, el 73 y el 16% respectivamente. La puntuación MAGGIC mostró una discriminación adecuada de la mortalidad a 1 año (estadístico c = 0,71) y a 3 años (estadístico c = 0,76). La mortalidad observada fue significativamente menor que la pronosticada, tanto a 1 año (el 6,2 frente al 10,9%; cociente observada/pronosticada = 0,57; p < 0,001) como a 3 años (el 16,7 frente al 27,7%; cociente observada/pronosticada = 0,60; p < 0,001). Esta discrepancia se observó en diversos subgrupos, excepto en los pacientes mayores de 70 años (el 29,9 frente al 34,7%; cociente observada/pronosticada = 0,86; p = 0,126) y en pacientes con fracción de eyección > 40% (el 19,6 frente al 20,7%; cociente observada/pronosticada = 0,95; p = 0,640). Conclusiones. Los pacientes con IC tratados en una unidad especializada presentaron una mortalidad inferior a la pronosticada por la puntuación MAGGIC.

OBJECTIVES To investigate the potential clinical benefit of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) in patients supported with venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) as a bridge to heart transplantation (HT). METHODS We studied 169 patients who were listed for urgent HT under VA-ECMO support at 16 Spanish institutions from 2010 to 2015. The clinical outcomes of patients under simultaneous IABP support (n = 73) were compared to a control group of patients without IABP support (n = 96). RESULTS There were no statistically significant differences between the IABP and control groups with regard to the cumulative rates of transplantation (71.2% vs 81.2%, P = 0.17), death during VA-ECMO support (20.6% vs 14.6%, P = 0.31), transition to a different mechanical circulatory support device (5.5% vs 5.2%, P = 0.94) or weaning from VA-ECMO support due to recovery (2.7% vs 0%, P = 0.10). There was a higher incidence of bleeding events in the IABP group (45.2% vs 25%, P = 0.006; adjusted odds ratio 2.18, 95% confidence interval 1.02–4.67). In-hospital postoperative mortality after HT was 34.6% in the IABP group and 32.5% in the control group (P = 0.80). One-year survival after listing for urgent HT was 53.3% in the IABP group and 52.2% in the control group (log rank P = 0.75). Multivariate adjustment for potential confounders did not change this result (adjusted hazard ratio 0.94, 95% confidence interval 0.56–1.58). CONCLUSIONS In our study, simultaneous IABP therapy in transplant candidates under VA-ECMO support did not significantly reduce morbidity or mortality. Sin financiación 1.675 JCR (2019) Q3, 98/138 Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems, 123/210 Surgery; Q4, 53/64 Respiratory System 0.660 SJR (2019) Q2, 137/362 Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine, 63/147 Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine, 138/451 Surgery No data IDR 2019 UEM

Introduction: Clinical scales are currently the best method to assess pain in the neonate, given the impossibility of self-report in this age group. A study is designed with the aim of determining the current practices as regards the clinical assessment of pain in Spanish Neonatal Units and the factors associated with the use of clinical scales. Methods: A prospective longitudinal observational study was conducted. A total of 30 Units participated and 468 neonates were included. Results: Only 13 Units (43.3%) had pain assessment protocols. Pain was evaluated with a scale in 78 neonates (16.7%, 95% CI; 13.1–20.1) and the mean number of pain assessments per patient and per day was 2.3 (Standard Deviation; 4.8), with a median of 0.75. Of the total number of 7189 patient-days studied, there was at least one pain assessment in 654 (9.1%). No pain assessment was performed with a clinical scale on any patient in 20 (66.7%) Units. Among those that did, a wide variation was observed in the percentage of patients in whom pain was assessed, as well as in the scales used. The CRIES (C-Crying; R-Requires increased oxygen administration; I-Increased vital signs; E-Expression; S-Sleeplessness) scale was used in most Units. In the multivariate analysis, only invasive mechanical ventilation was associated with receiving a pain assessment with a scale (OR 1.46, P = .042). Discussion: The majority of neonates admitted into Intensive Care in Spain do not receive a pain assessment. Many units still do not routinely use clinical scales, and there is a wide variation between those that do use them. These results could serve as a basis for preparing national guidelines as regards pain in the neonate. Resumen: Introducción: Las escalas clínicas son hoy en día el mejor método para evaluar el dolor en el neonato, dada la imposibilidad de autorreporte en este grupo de edad. Se diseñó un estudio con el objetivo de determinar las prácticas actuales en relación con la valoración clínica del dolor en España y los factores asociados al uso de escalas clínicas. Métodos: El estudio es de tipo observacional, longitudinal y prospectivo. Participaron 30 unidades y se reclutó a 468 neonatos. Resultados: Solo 13 unidades (43,3%) disponían de protocolos de valoración del dolor. Se evaluó el dolor con una escala en 78 neonatos (16,7%, IC del 95%, 13,1-20,1) y el número medio de valoraciones del dolor por paciente y día de estancia fue de 2,3 ± 4,8, con una mediana de 0,75. Del total de 7.189 días-paciente estudiados, 654 (9,1%) conllevaron al menos una valoración del dolor. Veinte unidades (66,7%) no realizaron evaluación del dolor con una escala clínica en ningún paciente. Entre las que sí lo hicieron, se observó una gran variabilidad en el porcentaje de pacientes en los que se evaluó el dolor y en las escalas utilizadas. La escala CRIES (C-Crying; R-Requires increased oxygen administration; I-Increased vital signs; E-Expression; S-Sleeplessness) fue la que se usó en más unidades. En el análisis multivariante solo la ventilación mecánica invasiva se asoció a recibir valoración del dolor con una escala (OR 1,46, p = 0,042). Discusión: La mayoría de los neonatos ingresados en cuidados intensivos en España no recibe una valoración del dolor. Muchas unidades todavía no utilizan rutinariamente las escalas clínicas y entre las que las utilizan existe una gran variabilidad. Estos resultados pueden servir de base para la elaboración de guías nacionales al respecto del dolor en el neonato.

Carta científica

Background Research suggests that men are less likely to seek help for depression, substance abuse, and stressful life events due to negative perceptions of asking for and receiving help. This may be exacerbated in male military cadets who exhibit higher levels of gender role conflict because of military culture. Methods This exploratory study examined the perceptions of 78 male military cadets toward help-seeking behaviors. Cadets completed the 31-item Barriers to Help Seeking Scale (BHSS) and a component factor analysis was used to generate five composite variables and compare to validated factors. Perceptual mapping and vector modeling, which produce 3-dimensional models of a group’s perceptions, were then used to model how they conceptualize help-seeking. Results Factor analysis showed slightly different groupings than the BHSS, perhaps attributed to different characteristics of respondents, who are situated in a military school compared to general university males. Perceptual maps show that cadets perceive trust of doctors closest to them and help-seeking farthest, supporting the concept that these males have rigid beliefs about having control and its relationship to health seeking. Differences were seen when comparing maps of White and non-White cadets. White cadets positioned themselves far away from all variables, while non-White cadets were closest to “emotional control”. Conclusion To move these cadets toward help-seeking, vector modeling suggests that interventions should focus on their general trust of doctors, accepting lack of control, and decreasing feelings of weakness when asking for help. For non-White cadets a focus on self-reliance may also need to be emphasized. Use of these unique methods resulted in articulation of specific barriers that if addressed early, may have lasting effects on help-seeking behavior as these young men become adults. Future studies are needed to develop and test specific interventions to promote help-seeking among military cadets.

Background This study aims to determine the incidence and causes of structural valve deterioration (SVD) among all models of Mitroflow bioprostheses (A12/LX/DL), as well as to define their long-term clinical and hemodynamic performance. Methods and Results We retrospectively reviewed a series of 1023 patients who underwent aortic valve replacement with Mitroflow bioprostheses between 2001 and 2014. A small aortic root was found in 22.4% of patients. There were two cases of severe patient-prosthesis mismatch. Only 31 patients developed SVD. The rate of incidence was 8.1 cases per 1000 patient-years. Cumulative incidence of SVD was 1.4% and 3% at five and 10 years, respectively. Freedom from SVD was 97.4% and 88.2% at five and 10 years, respectively. Anticalcification phospholipid reduction treatment (PRT) for model DL was a protective factor for SVD. Multivariable analysis confirmed age 70 years, and cases with severe left ventricular hypertrophy. PRT might contribute to improved long-term durability.

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Recientemente se han producido numerosas novedades en el manejo de la fibrilacion auricular no valvular y el tratamiento antiarritmico, anticoagulante y no farmacologico empleado, pero su aplicacion a la clinica no es inmediata. El objetivo del trabajo es conocer las caracteristicas generales de manejo y tratamiento antiarritmico de una poblacion general de pacientes con fibrilacion auricular no valvular actualmente en Espana. Metodos Estudio observacional y prospectivo de 1.318 pacientes consecutivos con fibrilacion auricular no valvular, anticoagulados y reclutados entre junio de 2013 y marzo de 2014. Se analizan sus caracteristicas generales, el manejo y el tratamiento antiarritmico utilizado. Resultados La media de edad era 73,8 ± 9,4 anos; eran mujeres el 42,5%. La fibrilacion auricular fue paroxistica en el 28% de los casos, permanente en el 50%, persistente en el 17,6%, persistente de larga duracion en el 4,5% y de novo en 66 pacientes (5%). Se eligio control del ritmo en el 39,4% de los casos y de frecuencia en el 60,6%. Tomaron bloqueadores beta el 60,2%, digoxina el 19,5% y antagonistas del calcio el 10,7%. Los antiarritmicos empleados fueron amiodarona (12,6%), flecainida (8,9%), propafenona (0,4%), sotalol (0,5%) y dronedarona (2,3%). Se realizo cardioversion previa en el 41,9%, ablacion en el 3,4% y cierre de orejuela en el 0,2%. Conclusiones Actualmente en nuestro pais se maneja a los pacientes con fibrilacion auricular no valvular preferentemente con control de frecuencia, sobre todo con bloqueadores beta, reciben pocos antiarritmicos y se los somete en muy baja proporcion a tratamientos no farmacologicos.

Observational study [Abstract] Introduction and objectives: To compare the long-term results of direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) vs vitamin K antagonists (VKA) in real-world-patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) in a nationwide, prospective study. Methods: The FANTASIIA registry prospectively included outpatients with AF anticoagulated with DOAC or VKA (per protocol, proportion of VKA and DOAC 4:1), consecutively recruited from June 2013 to October 2014 in Spain. The incidence of major events was analyzed and compared according to the anticoagulant treatment received. Results: A total of 2178 patients were included in the study (mean age 73.8±9.4 years), and 43.8% were women. Of these, 533 (24.5%) received DOAC and 1645 (75.5%) VKA. After a median follow up of 32.4 months, patients receiving DOAC vs those receiving VKA had lower rates of stroke-0.40 (95%CI, 0.17-0.97) vs 1.07 (95%CI,0.79-1.46) patients/y, P=.032-, severe bleedings-2.13 (95%CI, 1.45-3.13) vs 3.28 (95%CI, 2.75-3.93) patients/y; P = .044-, cardiovascular death-1.20 (95%CI, 0.72-1.99) vs 2.45 (95%CI, 2.00-3.00) patients/y; P = .009-, and all-cause death-3.77 (95%CI, 2.83-5.01) vs 5.54 (95%CI, 4.83-6.34) patients/y; P = .016-. In a modified Cox regression model by the Andersen-Gill method for multiple events, hazard ratios for patients receiving DOAC were: 0.42 (0.16-1.07) for stroke; 0.47 (0.20-1.16) for total embolisms; 0.76 (0.50-1.15) for severe bleedings; 0.67 (0.39-1.18) for cardiovascular death; 0.86 (0.62-1.19) for all-cause death, and 0.82 (0.64-1.05) for the combined event consisting of stroke, embolism, severe bleeding, and all-cause death. Conclusions: Compared with VKA, DOAC is associated with a trend to a lower incidence of all major events, including death, in patients with NVAF in Spain. [Resumen] Introducción y objetivos. Comparar los resultados a largo plazo de los anticoagulantes orales directos (ACOD) frente a los antagonistas de la vitamina K (AVK) en pacientes del mundo real con fibrilación auricular no valvular (FANV) en un estudio nacional prospectivo. Métodos. El estudio FANTASIIA incluyó consecutivamente a pacientes ambulatorios con FANV anticoagulados con ACOD o AVK desde junio de 2013 hasta octubre de 2014. Se compararon las tasas de eventos según el anticoagulante administrado. Resultados. Se incluyó a 2.178 pacientes (edad, 73,8 ± 9,4 años; el 43,8% mujeres); de ellos, 533 (24,5%) recibían ACOD y 1.645 (75,5%), AVK. Tras una mediana de seguimiento de 32,4 meses, los pacientes con ACOD tuvieron tasas más bajas de ictus —0,40 (IC95%, 0,17-0,97) frente a 1,07 (IC95%, 0,79-1,46) pacientes/año; p = 0,032—, hemorragias mayores —2,13 (IC95%, 1,45-3,13) frente a 3,28 (IC95%, 2,75-3,93) pacientes/año; p = 0,044—, muerte cardiovascular —1,20 (IC95%, 0,72-1,99) frente a 2,45 (IC95%, 2,00-3,00) pacientes/año; p = 0,009— y muerte total —3,77 (IC95%, 2,83-5,01) frente a 5,54 (IC95%, 4,83-6,34) pacientes/año; p = 0,016—. En el análisis de Cox modificado según el método de Andersen-Gill para datos con múltiples eventos, las razones de riesgos instantáneos para los pacientes con ACOD fueron 0,42 (0,16-1,07) para el ictus; 0,47 (0,20-1,16) para la embolia sistémica en general; 0,76 (0,50-1,15) para las hemorragias mayores; 0,67 (0,39-1,18) para la muerte cardiovascular; 0,86 (0,62-1,19) para la mortalidad total y 0,82 (0,64-1,05) para el combinado de ictus, embolias, hemorragias mayores y muerte. Conclusiones. El tratamiento con ACOD se asocia con una tendencia a una menor tasa de todos los eventos graves, incluida la mortalidad, en relación con los AVK en pacientes con FANV en España.