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Introduction: Coronary intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is increasingly important in catheterization laboratories due to its positive prognostic impact. This study aims to characterize the use of IVUS in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in Portugal. Methods: A retrospective observational study was performed based on the Portuguese Registry on Interventional Cardiology of the Portuguese Society of Cardiology. The clinical and angiographic profiles of patients who underwent PCI between 2002 and 2016, the percentage of IVUS use, and the coronary arteries assessed were characterized. Results: A total of 118706 PCIs were included, in which IVUS was used in 2266 (1.9%). Over time, use of IVUS changed from none in 2002 to generally increasing use from 2003 (0.1%) to 2016 (2.4%). The age of patients in whom coronary IVUS was used was similar to that of patients in whom IVUS was not used, but in the former group there were fewer male patients, and a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors (hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and diabetes), previous myocardial infarction, previous PCI, multivessel coronary disease, C-type or bifurcated coronary lesions, and in-stent restenosis. IVUS was used in 54.8% of elective PCIs and in 19.15% of PCIs of the left main coronary artery. Conclusion: Coronary IVUS has been increasingly used in Portugal since 2003. It is used preferentially in elective PCIs, and in patients with higher cardiovascular risk, with more complex coronary lesions and lesions of the left main coronary artery. Resumo: Introdução: A ecografia intravascular coronária tem ganho importância nos laboratórios de hemodinâmica pela evidência de impacto prognóstico positivo para os doentes. Este trabalho tem como objetivo caraterizar a utilização de ecografia intravascular em intervenções coronárias percutâneas em Portugal. Métodos: Estudo observacional retrospetivo com base no Registo Nacional de Cardiologia de Intervenção da Sociedade Portuguesa de Cardiologia. De 2002 a 2016 caraterizou-se o perfil clínico e angiográficos dos doentes submetidos a intervenção coronária percutânea, a percentagem de utilização de ecografia intravascular e as artérias coronárias avaliadas. Resultados: Foram incluídas 118 706 intervenções coronárias percutâneas, com utilização de ecografia intravascular em 2266 (19%). A evolução temporal caraterizou-se por ausência em 2002 e uma utilização maioritariamente crescente de 2003 (0.1%) a 2016 (2.4%). O grupo de doentes com utilização de ecografia intravascular coronária tinham idade semelhante ao grupo de doentes sem utilização de ecografia intravascular coronária, com uma menor prevalência de doentes do sexo masculino e uma maior prevalência de fatores de risco cardiovasculares (hipertensão arterial, hipercolesterolemia, diabetes), enfarte agudo do miocárdio prévio, intervenção coronária percutânea prévia, doença coronária multivaso, lesões coronárias do tipo C ou em bifurcação e reestenose intra-stent. A ecografia intravascular foi utilizada em 54.8% em intervenções coronárias percutâneas eletivas e em 19.15% das intervenções coronárias percutâneas do tronco comum. Conclusão: A ecografia intravascular coronária teve uma utilização crescente em Portugal desde 2003, ocorre preferencialmente em intervenções coronárias percutâneas eletivas, de doentes com maior risco cardiovascular, com lesões coronárias mais complexas e lesões do tronco comum. Keywords: Intravascular ultrasound, Percutaneous coronary intervention, Coronary disease, Cardiology, Palavras-chave: Ecografia intravascular, Intervenção coronária percutânea, Doença coronária, Cardiologia

Current guidelines recommend the use of the Modified Diamond-Forrester (MDF) method to assess the pre-test likelihood of obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). We aimed to compare the performance of the MDF method with two contemporary algorithms derived from multicenter trials that additionally incorporate cardiovascular risk factors: the calculator-based 'CAD Consortium 2' method, and the integer-based CONFIRM score.We assessed 1069 consecutive patients without known CAD undergoing coronary CT angiography (CCTA) for stable chest pain. Obstructive CAD was defined as the presence of coronary stenosis ≥50% on 64-slice dual-source CT. The three methods were assessed for calibration, discrimination, net reclassification, and changes in proposed downstream testing based upon calculated pre-test likelihoods.The observed prevalence of obstructive CAD was 13.8% (n=147). Overestimations of the likelihood of obstructive CAD were 140.1%, 9.8%, and 18.8%, respectively, for the MDF, CAD Consortium 2 and CONFIRM methods. The CAD Consortium 2 showed greater discriminative power than the MDF method, with a C-statistic of 0.73 vs. 0.70 (p0.001), while the CONFIRM score did not (C-statistic 0.71, p=0.492). Reclassification of pre-test likelihood using the 'CAD Consortium 2' or CONFIRM scores resulted in a net reclassification improvement of 0.19 and 0.18, respectively, which would change the diagnostic strategy in approximately half of the patients.Newer risk factor-encompassing models allow for a more precise estimation of pre-test probabilities of obstructive CAD than the guideline-recommended MDF method. Adoption of these scores may improve disease prediction and change the diagnostic pathway in a significant proportion of patients.

Resumo: Introdução e objetivos: Foi nosso objetivo reportar a evolução da angioplastia coronária no tratamento do enfarte agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (EAMCST), entre 2002‐2013. Métodos: Os dados prospetivos multicêntricos do Registo Nacional de Cardiologia de Intervenção (RNCI) e os dados oficiais da Direção Geral de Saúde (DGS) foram conjugados para estudar os procedimentos no EAMCST entre 2002 e 2013. Resultados: Em 2013 realizaram‐se 3524 angioplastias primárias (ICP‐P), representando um crescimento de 315% relativamente ao ano de 2002. Em 2002 a ICP‐P representava 16% do total de angioplastias coronárias, passando a representar 25% nos anos de 2012‐2013. Entre 2002‐2013 o número de procedimentos por milhão de habitantes aumentou de 106 para 338 e a angioplastia de recurso decresceu de 70,7 para 2%. Durante o período em análise, a utilização de stents eluidores de fármaco cresceu de 9,9 para 69,5%. Após 2008, observou‐se uma utilização crescente da trombectomia de aspiração, atingindo 46,7% em 2013. Os inibidores das glicoproteínas IIb/IIIa registaram um decréscimo no seu uso, sendo de 73,2% em 2002 e de 23,6% em 2013. O acesso radial cresceu de 8,3% em 2008 até 54,6% em 2013. Conclusões: Durante o período em análise, a taxa de angioplastia coronária por milhão de habitantes triplicou. A angioplastia de recurso foi ultrapassada pela angioplastia primária a partir de 2006. Observaram‐se novas tendências no tratamento do enfarte agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST, salientando‐se a utilização de stents eluidores de fármacos e o acesso radial. Abstract: Introduction and Objectives: The aim of the present paper was to report trends in coronary angioplasty for the treatment of ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in Portugal. Methods: Prospective multicenter data from the Portuguese National Registry of Interventional Cardiology (RNCI) and official data from the Directorate‐General for Health (DGS) were studied to analyze percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedures for STEMI from 2002 to 2013. Results: In 2013, 3524 primary percutaneous coronary intervention (p‐PCI) procedures were performed (25% of all procedures), an increase of 315% in comparison to 2002 (16% of all interventions). Between 2002 and 2013 the rate increased from 106 to 338 p‐PCIs per million population per year. Rescue angioplasty decreased from 70.7% in 2002 to 2% in 2013. During this period, the use of drug‐eluting stents grew from 9.9% to 69.5%. After 2008, the use of aspiration thrombectomy increased, reaching 46.7% in 2013. Glycoprotein IIb‐IIIa inhibitor use decreased from 73.2% in 2002 to 23.6% in the last year of the study. Use of a radial approach increased steadily from 8.3% in 2008 to 54.6% in 2013. Conclusion: During the reporting period there was a three‐fold increase in primary angioplasty rates per million population. Rescue angioplasty has been overtaken by p‐PCI as the predominant procedure since 2006. New trends in the treatment of STEMI were observed, notably the use of drug‐eluting stents and radial access as the predominant approach. Palavras‐chave: Registo, Cardiologia de intervenção, Enfarte do miocárdio, Coronariografia, Angioplastia primária, Stent, Keywords: Registry, Interventional cardiology, Myocardial infarction, Coronary angiography, Primary angioplasty, Stent

Background: The revascularization strategy of the left main disease is determinant for clinical outcomes.Objective: We sought to 1) validate and compare the performance of the SYNTAX Score 1 and 2 for predicting major cardiovascular events at 4 years in patients who underwent unprotected left main angioplasty and 2) evaluate the long-term outcome according to the SYNTAX score 2--recommended revascularization strategy. Methods: We retrospectively studied 132 patients from a single--centre registry who underwent unprotected left main angioplasty between March 1999 and December 2010. Discrimination and calibration of both models were assessed by ROC curve analysis, calibration curves and the Hosmer--Lemeshow test. Results: Total event rate was 26.5% at 4 years. The AUC for the SYNTAX Score 1 and SYNTAX Score 2 for percutaneous coronary intervention, was 0.61 (95% CI:0.49--0.73) and 0.67 (95% CI:0.57--0.78), respectively. Despite a good overall adjustment for both models, the SYNTAX Score 2 tended to underpredict risk. In the 47 patients (36%) who should have undergone surgery according to the SYNTAX Score 2, event rate was numerically higher (30% vs. 25%; p = 0.54), and for those with a higher difference between the two SYNTAX Score 2 scores (Percutaneous coronary intervention vs. Coronary artery by--pass graft risk estimation greater than 5.7%), event rate was almost double (40% vs. 22%; p = 0.2).Conclusion: The SYNTAX Score 2 may allow a better and individualized risk stratification of patients who need revascularization of an unprotected left main coronary artery. Prospective studies are needed for further validation.

Resumo: Introdução e objetivos: Foi nosso objetivo estudar as tendências da intervenção coronária percutânea entre 2004‐2013 e comparar Portugal com outros países europeus. Métodos: Análise dos procedimentos coronários efetuados entre 2004‐2013 com base num registo prospetivo, multicêntrico, voluntário, doente a doente – Registo Nacional de Cardiologia de Intervenção (RNCI) da Associação Portuguesa de Intervenção Cardiovascular da Sociedade Portuguesa de Cardiologia (APIC‐SPC) – e dos dados oficiais publicados pela Direção Geral de Saúde (DGS). Resultados: Em 2013 realizaram‐se 36 810 cateterismos diagnósticos (3529 coronariografias por milhão de habitantes), representando um aumento significativo de 34% relativamente ao ano de 2007 (p

Copyright © The Author(s). 2018, Background: We aimed to evaluate the impact of thrombus aspiration (TA) during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (P-PCI) in ‘real-world’ settings. Methods: We performed a retrospective study, using data from the National Registry of Interventional Cardiology (RNCI 2006–2012, Portugal) with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients treated with P-PCI. The primary outcome, in-hospital mortality, was analysed through adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). Results: We assessed data for 9458 STEMI patients that undergone P-PCI (35% treated with TA). The risk of in-hospital mortality with TA (aOR 0.93, 95%CI:0.54–1.60) was not significantly decreased. After matching patients through the propensity score, TA reduced significantly the risk of in-hospital mortality (OR 0.58, 95%CI:0.35–0.98; 3500 patients). Conclusions: The whole cohort data does not support the routine use of TA in P-PCI, but the results of the propensityscore matched cohort suggests that the use of selective TA may improve the short-term risks of STEMI.

Objective: To evaluate the performance of traditional cardiovascular (CV) risk factors in identifying a higher than expected coronary atherosclerotic burden. Methods: We assessed 2069 patients undergoing coronary CT angiography, with assessment of calcium score (CS), for suspected coronary artery disease. A higher than expected atherosclerotic burden was defined as CS >75th percentile (CS >P75) according to age and gender-adjusted monograms. The ability of traditional CV risk factors to predict a CS >P75 was assessed in a customized logistic regression model (“Clinical Score”) and by the calculation of SCORE (Systemic Coronary Risk Evaluation). The population attributable risk (PAR) of risk factors for CS >P75 was calculated. Results: The median CS was 3.0 (IQR 0.0–98.0); 362 patients had CS >P75. The median SCORE was 3.0 (IQR 1.0–4.0). With the exception of hypertension, all traditional CV risk factors were independent predictors of CS >P75: diabetes, dyslipidemia, smoking and family history (OR 1.3–2.2, p≤0.026). The areas under the ROC curves for CS >P75 were 0.64 for the Clinical Score (95% CI 0.61–0.67, pP75 were in the two lower quartiles of the Clinical Score. Altogether, the traditional risk factors explain 56% of the prevalence of CS >P75 (adjusted PAR 0.56). Conclusion: Despite the association of CV risk factors with a higher than expected atherosclerotic burden, they appear to explain only half of its prevalence. Even when integrated in scores, the predictive power of these risk factors was modest, exposing the limitations of risk stratification based solely on demographic and clinical risk factors. Resumo: Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho dos fatores de risco cardiovascular (CV) clássicos na identificação de carga aterosclerótica superior ao esperado. Métodos: Avaliámos 2069 doentes (dts) que realizaram AngioTC cardíaca e ScCa para exclusão de doença coronária. Definiu-se carga aterosclerótica superior ao esperado um ScCa acima do percentil 75 (ScCa>p75) de acordo com nomogramas ajustados para o sexo e idade. A capacidade dos fatores de risco clássicos preverem ScCa>p75 avaliou-se num modelo de regressão logística customizado (score clínico) e pelo SCORE. Avaliou-se o Population Attributable Risk (PAR) dos fatores de risco para ScCa>p75. Resultados: A mediana de ScCa foi 3,0 [IIQ 0,0-98,0]; 362 dts com ScCa>p75. A mediana do HeartScore foi 3,0 [IIQ 1,0-4,0]. Exceto a hipertensão arterial, todos os fatores de risco foram preditores independentes de CaSc>p75: diabetes mellitus, dislipidemia, tabagismo e história familiar (OR 1,3-2,2, p≤0,026). As áreas abaixo da curva ROC para SaCa>p75 foram 0,64 para score clínico (IC95% 0,61-0,67; pp75 encontravam-se nos dois quartis de score clínico mais baixos. No seu conjunto, os fatores de risco clássicos explicam 56% da prevalência de ScCa>p75 (PAR ajustado 0,56). Conclusão: Apesar de os fatores de risco CV se associarem a uma carga aterosclerótica superior ao esperado, justificam pouco mais de metade da sua prevalência. O poder preditor destes fatores de risco é modesto, mesmo integrados em scores, revelando as limitações da estratificação de risco baseada apenas em dados demográficos e fatores de risco clínicos. Keywords: Atherosclerotic burden, Risk factor, Attributable risk, Calcium score, CT angiography, Palavras-chave: Carga Aterosclerótica, Fator de risco, Score de cálcio, AngioTC

Introduction: Increased activation of the sympathetic nervous system plays a central role in the pathophysiology of hypertension (HTN). Catheter-based renal denervation (RDN) was recently developed for the treatment of resistant HTN. Aim: To assess the safety and efficacy of RDN for blood pressure (BP) reduction at six months in patients with resistant HTN. Methods: In this prospective registry of patients with essential resistant HTN who underwent RDN between July 2011 and May 2013, the efficacy of RDN was defined as ≥10 mmHg reduction in office systolic blood pressure (SBP) six months after the intervention. Results: In a resistant HTN outpatient clinic, 177 consecutive patients were evaluated, of whom 34 underwent RDN (age 62.7±7.6 years; 50.0% male). There were no vascular complications, either at the access site or in the renal arteries. Of the 22 patients with complete six-month follow-up, the response rate was 81.8% (n=18). The mean office SBP reduction was 22 mmHg (174±23 vs. 152±22 mmHg; p

Resumo: Introdução: O aumento da atividade do sistema nervoso simpático desempenha um papel preponderante na fisiopatologia da hipertensão arterial (HTA). Recentemente foi desenvolvida uma técnica de intervenção percutânea – a desnervação renal (DNR) – para o tratamento da HTA resistente. Objetivo: Avaliar a segurança imediata e a eficácia da DNR aos seis meses na redução da pressão arterial em doentes com HTA resistente. Métodos: Registo prospetivo de doentes com HTA essencial resistente submetidos a DNR entre julho de 2011 e maio de 2013. A eficácia da DNR foi definida pela redução ≥ 10 mmHg da pressão arterial sistólica (PAS), avaliada na consulta dos seis meses de seguimento. Resultados: Numa consulta de HTA resistente avaliaram‐se 177 doentes consecutivos, dos quais 34 (idade 62,7 ± 7,6 anos; 50,0% homens) efetuaram DNR. Não ocorreram complicações vasculares, nomeadamente no acesso ou nas artérias renais. Nos 22 doentes com seguimento completo aos seis meses, a taxa de respondedores foi 81,8% (n=18). A PAS na consulta diminuiu em média 22 mmHg (174 ± 23 versus 152 ± 22 mmHg; p

The absence of coronary calcification is associated with an excellent prognosis. However, a calcium score of zero does not exclude the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) or the possibility of future cardiovascular events. Our aim was to study the prevalence and predictors of coronary artery disease in patients with a calcium score of zero. Prospective registry consisted of 3,012 consecutive patients that underwent cardiac CT (dual source CT). Stable patients referred for evaluation of possible CAD that had a calcium score of zero (n = 864) were selected for this analysis. The variables that were statistically significant were included in a multivariable logistic regression model. From 864 patients with a calcium score of zero, 107 (12.4%) had coronary plaques on the contrast CT (10.8%, n = 93 with nonobstructive CAD and 1.6%, n = 14 with obstructive CAD). By logistic regression analysis, the independent predictors of CAD in this population were age >55 years [odds ratio (OR) 1.63 (1.05-2.52)], hypertension [OR 1.64 (1.05-2.56)] and dyslipidemia [OR 1.54 (1.00-2.36)]. In the presence of these 3 variables, the probability of having coronary plaques was 21%. The absence of coronary artery calcification does not exclude the presence of coronary artery disease, but the prevalence of obstructive disease is very low. In this population, the independent predictors of CAD in the setting of a calcium score of zero were hypertension, dyslipidemia, and age above 55 years. In the presence of these 3 predictors, the probability of having CAD was almost 2 times higher than in the general population.

Resumo: A tomografia computorizada cardíaca (angioTC cardíaca) permite documentar a presença de doença coronária, independentemente do seu grau de estenose. Recentemente, foi validado o valor prognóstico da doença coronária não obstrutiva documentada por angioTC cardíaca. No entanto, não existem ainda recomendações claras acerca da abordagem destes doentes, nomeadamente sobre o início de medidas farmacológicas mais agressivas em prevenção primária. A abordagem destes doentes permanece controversa, sobretudo nos casos em que existe uma discrepância entre o risco cardiovascular e a carga aterosclerótica objetivada na angioTC.Os autores descrevem o caso de um doente com discrepância entre a extensão da aterosclerose coronária objetivada e a sua estimativa de acordo com os scores de probabilidade pré-teste e de eventos cardiovasculares. Tratando-se de um indivíduo com documentação de aterosclerose coronária acima do esperado - score de cálcio superior ao percentil 90 e doença coronária não obstrutiva na angioTC cardíaca, mas por outro lado, assintomático e sem fatores de risco nem antecedentes cardiovasculares, com uma estimativa de risco cardiovascular muito baixa e atleta de competição, torna-se difícil decidir acerca do risco/benefício de medidas farmacológicas de prevenção primária. Abstract: Cardiac computed tomography (CT) documents the presence of coronary artery disease, regardless of the degree of stenosis. The prognostic value of non-obstructive coronary artery disease documented by cardiac CT has recently been validated. However, there are still no clear guidelines on the management of such patients, particularly concerning initiation of more aggressive pharmacological measures for primary prevention. The approach to these patients remains controversial, especially in cases in which there is a discrepancy between cardiovascular risk and the atherosclerotic burden as documented by cardiac CT.The authors describe the case of a patient with a discrepancy between the extent of documented coronary atherosclerosis and that estimated according to pretest probability and cardiovascular risk scores. As this individual had more severe coronary atherosclerosis than expected (calcium score above the 90th percentile and non-obstructive coronary artery disease on cardiac CT) but was a competitive athlete and otherwise asymptomatic and without risk factors or cardiovascular history, with a very low estimated cardiovascular risk, it was difficult to decide on the risks and benefits of pharmacological primary prevention. Palavras-chave: Tomografia computorizada cardíaca, Doença coronária não obstrutiva, Exercício físico, Keywords: Cardiac computed tomography, Non-obstructive coronary artery disease, Physical exercise

The relation between body mass index (BMI) and coronary artery disease (CAD) extension remains controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between BMI and CAD extension documented by coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA).Prospective registry including 1706 consecutive stable patients that performed CCTA (dual source scanner) for the evaluation of CAD. The population was stratified by BMI: normal 530 (31.1%), overweight 802 (47.0%) and obesity 374 (21.9%). BMI was significantly higher in patients with CAD (27.7 ± 4.3 vs 26.8 ± 4.3 kg/m(2), p 0.001); these patients were also older, more often male and had higher prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia. By multivariate analysis (logistic regression) BMI remains an independent predictor of CAD (odds ratio (OR) 1.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01-1.06; p = 0.012). Regarding the severity of CAD, BMI was not significantly different among patients with and without obstructive CAD (27.7 ± 4.3 vs 27.2 ± 4.3 kg/m(2), p = 0.120). In 319 patients (4516 segments; 4077 evaluable), a detailed atherosclerotic burden was evaluated and compared among BMI classes, defined according to the presence of plaque and the degree of stenosis. Obstructive CAD was identified in 16.9% of the patients and 45.1% had non-obstructive CAD. The discriminative threshold for high burden, established by the segment involvement score (SIS), was5 segments with plaque (15.4% patients). The prevalence of SIS5 among the BMI classes was: 18.7%, 13.7% and 13.6% for normal, overweight and obesity respectively (p values for the specific classes versus all other patients: 0.241, 0.450 and 0.663).In this population of stable patients undergoing CCTA for suspected CAD, BMI was an independent predictor of its presence, but was not correlated with the coronary disease severity.

To describe a coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA)-adapted Leaman score (CT-LeSc) as a tool to quantify total coronary atherosclerotic burden with information regarding localization, type of plaque and degree of stenosis and to identify clinical predictors of a high coronary atherosclerotic burden as assessed by the CT-LeSc. Single center prospective registry including a total of 772 consecutive patients undergoing CCTA (Dual-source CT) from April 2011 to March 2012. For the purpose of this study, 581 stable patients referred for suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) without previous myocardial infarction or revascularization procedures were included. Pre-test CAD probability was determined using both the Diamond-Forrester extended CAD consortium method (DF-CAD consortium model) and the Morise score. Cardiovascular risk was assessed with the HeartScore. The cut-off for the 3rd tercile (CT-LeSc ≥8.3) was used to define a population with a high coronary atherosclerotic burden. The median CT-LeSc in this population (n = 581, 8,136 coronary segments evaluated; mean age 57.6 ± 11.1; 55.8 % males; 14.6 % with diabetes) was 2.2 (IQR 0-6.8). In patients with CAD (n = 341), the median CT-LeSc was 5.8 (IQR 3.2-9.6). Among patients with nonobstructive CAD, most were classified in the lowest terciles (T1, 43.0 %; T2, 36.1 %), but 20.9 % were in the highest tercile (T3). The majority of the patients with obstructive CAD were classified in T3 (78.2 %), but 21.8 % had a CT-LeSc in lower terciles (T1 or T2). The independent predictors of a high CT-LeSc were: Male sex (OR 1.73; 95 % CI 1.04-2.90) diabetes (OR 2.91; 95 % CI 1.61-5.23), hypertension (OR 2.54; 95 % CI 1.40-4.63), Morise score ≥ 16 (OR 1.97; 95 % CI 1.06-3.67) and HeartScore ≥ 5 (OR 2.42; 95 % CI 1.41-4.14). We described a cardiac CT adapted Leaman score as a tool to quantify total (obstructive and nonobstructive) coronary atherosclerotic burden, reflecting the comprehensive information about localization, degree of stenosis and type of plaque provided by CCTA. Male sex, hypertension, diabetes, a HeartScore ≥5 % and a Morise score ≥ 16 were associated with a high coronary atherosclerotic burden, as assessed by the CT-LeSc. About one fifth of the patients with nonobstructive CAD had a CT-LeSc in the highest tercile, and this could potentially lead to a reclassification of the risk profile of this subset of patients identified by CCTA, once the prognostic value of the CT-LeSc is validated.

(1) To study the prevalence and severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) in diabetic patients. (2) To provide a detailed characterization of the coronary atherosclerotic burden, including the localization, degree of stenosis and plaque composition by coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Single center prospective registry including a total of 581 consecutive stable patients (April 2011-March 2012) undergoing CCTA (Dual-source CT) for the evaluation of suspected CAD without previous myocardial infarction or revascularization procedures. Different coronary plaque burden indexes and plaque type and distribution patterns were compared between patients with (n = 85) and without diabetes (n = 496). The prevalence of CAD (any plaque; 74.1 vs. 56%; p = 0.002) and obstructive CAD (≥50% stenosis; 31.8 vs. 10.3%; p < 0.001) were significantly higher in diabetic patients. The remaining coronary atherosclerotic burden indexes evaluated (plaque in LM-3v-2v with prox. LAD; SIS; SSS; CT-LeSc) were also significantly higher in diabetic patients. In the per segment analysis, diabetics had a higher percentage of segments with plaque in every vessel (2.6/13.1/7.5/10.5% for diabetics vs. 1.4/7.1/3.3/4.4% for nondiabetics for LM, LAD, LCx, RCA respectively; p < 0.001 for all) and of both calcified (19.3 vs. 9.2%, p < 0.001) and noncalcified or mixed types (14.4 vs. 7.0%; p < 0.001); the ratio of proximal-to-distal relative plaque distribution (calculated as LM/proximal vs. mid/distal/branches) was lower for diabetics (0.75 vs. 1.04; p = 0.009). Diabetes was an independent predictor of CAD and was also associated with more advanced CAD, evaluated by indexes of coronary atherosclerotic burden. Diabetics had a significantly higher prevalence of plaques in every anatomical subset and for the different plaque composition. In this report, the relative geographic distribution of the plaques within each subgroup, favored a more mid-to-distal localization in the diabetic patients.

Background: Treadmill exercise testing has low specificity for the detection of significant epicardial coronary artery disease (CAD). A possible mechanism to explain some of the false positives is transient subendocardial ischemia induced by intraventricular gradients (IVG) during stress. The development of IVG during dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) occurs in 8-38% of non-selected populations. Objectives: To determine: 1. the prevalence of IVG in a selected population of false positives on treadmill stress testing; 2. whether this prevalence is different from that described for non-selected populations; 3. whether patient characteristics are related to the presence of IVG; 4. the relation between the presence of IVG and the occurrence of ECG abnormalities, symptoms and blood pressure. Methods and Results: We evaluated 50 consecutive patients with false positive treadmill stress tests (normal CT coronary angiography, nuclear perfusion tests or angiography) with DSE (2D and Doppler evaluation). All DSE exams were negative for ischemia. Stress-induced IVG was seen in 34 of the 50 patients (68%) and 16 patients (32%) did not develop IVG (p 0.05). However, the presence of IVG was associated with the occurrence of ischemic ST depression during dobutamine stress echo (p 0,05). No entanto, a presença de GIV relacionou-se com a ocorrência de depressão do segmento ST durante o ecocardiograma de sobrecarga com dobutamina (p < 0,05). Conclusões: 1. A prevalência de GIV durante o ecocardiograma de stress com dobutamina em populações seleccionadas de falsos positivos de prova de esforço é muito elevada, ocorrendo em 2/3 dos doentes. 2. Esta prevalência é significativamente mais alta que a descrita para populações não seleccionadas. 3. Idade, género, factores de risco para DAC, terapêutica com beta-bloqueantes/antagonistas dos canais de cálcio, doença arterial significativa/HVE, sintomas e a pressão arterial durante a sobrecarga não se relacionam com a presença ou ausência de GIV. 4. A presença de GIV está relacionada com a ocorrência de alterações isquémicas do segmento ST durante a ecocardiografia de sobrecarga com dobutamina. Keywords: Treadmill stress tests, False positives, Stress echocardiography, Physical exercise, Intraventricular gradient, Palavras-chave: Prova de esforço, Falsos positivos, Ecocardiografia de sobrecarga, Exercício físico, Gradiente intraventricular

Anomalous origin of coronary arteries represents a clinical challenge because of the anatomical variability and possible functional consequences, the pathophysiological mechanisms involved, and the lack of large published series that would provide evidence to guide the clinical and therapeutic approach. The authors describe the case of a 55-year-old male patient with a long history of atypical chest pain who was considered to have a low to intermediate likelihood of coronary artery disease. Therefore, and also bearing in mind his physical limitations (congenital left leg atrophy), he was referred for cardiac CT to rule out coronary artery disease. The exam showed a left coronary artery arising from the right coronary cusp and with an interarterial course, between the aorta and pulmonary trunk. Although this is a potentially malignant anatomical variant with surgical indication, a conservative approach was chosen, considering the late diagnosis and particular risk-benefit profile. Resumo: A origem anómala das artérias coronárias constitui um importante desafio clínico pela variabilidade anatómica, possíveis repercussões funcionais, mecanismos fisiopatológicos implicados e também pela ausência de grandes séries na literatura que forneçam sólida evidência científica para a sua orientação clínica e terapêutica.Os autores descrevem o caso de um doente de 55 anos, com antecedentes de hipertensão, dislipidemia e atrofia congénita da perna esquerda, que se apresentou com quadro de dor retroesternal atípica com um ano de evolução. Tendo em conta os fatores de risco cardiovasculares e exames complementares de diagnóstico previamente realizados, considerou-se ser um doente com probabilidade baixa a intermédia de doença coronária. Assim, e pela sua limitação funcional, realizou angioTC cardíaca que revelou uma origem anómala da coronária esquerda na cúspide coronária direita e com trajeto entre a aorta e a artéria pulmonar. Embora esta seja uma variante anatómica com potencial evolução maligna, optou-se por uma atitude conservadora após ponderação do risco-benefício no contexto clínico deste doente. Keywords: Anomalous origin of coronary arteries, Cardiac CT, Sudden death, Palavras-chave: Origem anómala das coronárias, AngioTC cardíaca, Morte súbita

Resumo: A origem anómala das artérias coronárias constitui um importante desafio clínico pela variabilidade anatómica, possíveis repercussões funcionais, mecanismos fisiopatológicos implicados e também pela ausência de grandes séries na literatura que forneçam sólida evidência científica para a sua orientação clínica e terapêutica.Os autores descrevem o caso de um doente de 55 anos, com antecedentes de hipertensão, dislipidemia e atrofia congénita da perna esquerda, que se apresentou com quadro de dor retroesternal atípica com um ano de evolução. Tendo em conta os fatores de risco cardiovasculares e exames complementares de diagnóstico previamente realizados, considerou-se ser um doente com probabilidade baixa a intermédia de doença coronária. Assim, e pela sua limitação funcional, realizou angioTC cardíaca que revelou uma origem anómala da coronária esquerda na cúspide coronária direita e com trajeto entre a aorta e a artéria pulmonar. Embora esta seja uma variante anatómica com potencial evolução maligna, optou-se por uma atitude conservadora após ponderação do risco-benefício no contexto clínico deste doente. Abstract: Anomalous origin of coronary arteries represents a clinical challenge not only because of the anatomical variability, but also the possible functional consequences, pathophysiological mechanisms involved and the absence of large series in the literature that would provide evidence for clinical and therapeutic orientation.The authors describe the case of a 55-year-old male patient with a long history of atypical chest pain who was considered to have a low to intermediate likelihood of coronary artery disease. Therefore, and also bearing in mind his physical limitations (congenital left leg atrophy), he was referred for cardiac CT to rule out coronary artery disease. The exam showed a left coronary artery arising from the right coronary cusp and with an interarterial course, between the aorta and pulmonary trunk. Although this is a potentially malignant anatomical variant with surgical indication, a conservative approach was chosen, considering the late diagnosis and particular risk-benefit profile. Palavras-chave: Origem anómala das coronárias, AngioTC cardíaca, Morte súbita, Keywords: Anomalous origin of coronary arteries, Cardiac CT, Sudden death

Takotsubo syndrome (TS) is an acute and reversible clinical syndrome characterized by transient hypokinesis of the left ventricular (LV) apex. Variant forms of LV dysfunction have been reported, including inverted Takotsubo syndrome (ITS), which represents only 5% of cases and has previously been linked to excessive use of inhaled adrenergic beta-2 agonists. The authors describe the case of a 60-year-old female patient who was diagnosed with ITS after the excessive use of inhaled adrenergic beta-2 agonists. This case highlights an uncommon variant of this syndrome that may not be obvious and must be suspected in this particular context. LEARNING POINTS Takotsubo syndrome (TS) was initially described with a classic pattern of LV apical akinesis and accounts for around 75–80% of cases. Variants including inverted Takotsubo (also known as basal variant) can affect other areas of the myocardium. Several physiopathological mechanisms have been implicated. Catecholamine-induced cardiotoxicity is one of the most supported theories, while other triggers, including excessive use of inhaled beta-2 agonists, have also been described. Treatment of TS is mainly symptomatic and conservative and frequently leads to rapid resolution and LV function recovery.

Introduction and Objectives: The aim of the present paper is to report trends in Portuguese interventional cardiology from 2004 to 2013 and to compare them with other European countries. Methods: Based on the Portuguese National Registry of Interventional Cardiology and on official data from the Directorate-General of Health, we give an overview of developments in coronary interventions from 2004 to 2013. Results: In 2013, 36 810 diagnostic catheterization procedures were performed, representing an increase of 34% compared to 2007 and a rate of 3529 coronary angiograms per million population. Coronary interventions increased by 65% in the decade from 2004 to 2013, with a total of 13 897 procedures and a rate of 1333 coronary interventions per million population in 2013. Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) increased by 265% from 2004 to 2013 (1328 vs. 3524), an adjusted rate of 338 primary PCIs per million, representing 25% of total angioplasties. Stents were the most frequently used devices, drug-eluting stents being used in 73% in 2013. Radial access increased from 4.1% in 2004 to 57.9% in 2013. Conclusion: Interventional cardiology in Portugal has been expanding since 2004. We would emphasize the fact that in 2013 all Portuguese interventional cardiology centers were participating in the National Registry of Interventional Cardiology, as well as the growth in primary PCI and increased use of radial access. Resumo: Introdução e objetivos: Foi nosso objetivo estudar as tendências da intervenção coronária percutânea entre 2004-2013 e comparar Portugal com outros países europeus. Métodos: Análise dos procedimentos coronários efetuados entre 2004-2013 com base num registo prospetivo, multicêntrico, voluntário, doente a doente – Registo Nacional de Cardiologia de Intervenção (RNCI) da Associação Portuguesa de Intervenção Cardiovascular da Sociedade Portuguesa de Cardiologia (APIC-SPC) – e dos dados oficiais publicados pela Direção Geral de Saúde (DGS). Resultados: Em 2013 realizaram-se 36 810 cateterismos diagnósticos (3529 coronariografias por milhão de habitantes), representando um aumento significativo de 34% relativamente ao ano de 2007 (p

Takayasu arteritis is a large vessel vasculitis with various clinical presentations depending on the territories affected. We report the case of a 47-year-old woman who was diagnosed with Takayasu arteritis following rapid progression of coronary disease. The condition evolved rapidly under corticosteroid therapy, with formation of new arterial stenoses within the carotid and splanchnic circulations. Disease remission was achieved with cyclophosphamide pulses and percutaneous angioplasty of the affected vessels was performed. Resumo: A arterite de Takayasu é uma vasculite de grandes vasos que cursa com apresentações clínicas diversas consoante os territórios afetados. Apresenta-se o caso clínico de uma mulher de 47 anos a quem foi feito o diagnóstico de arterite de Takayasu na sequência de doença coronária rapidamente progressiva. O quadro evoluiu rapidamente, sob corticoterapia, com formação de estenoses a nível da circulação carotídea e esplâncnica, tendo-se conseguido estabilização da doença com pulsos de ciclofosfamida e angioplastia percutânea das lesões. Keywords: Takayasu arteritis, Large vessel vasculitis, Vasculitis, Cyclophosphamide, Coronary artery disease, Palavras-chave: Arterite de Takayasu, Vasculite de grandes vasos, Vasculite, Ciclofosfamida, Doença coronária

Objetivo: descrever as características dos casos de Infecções Relacionadas à Assistência a Saúde diagnosticados em pacientes internados em um hospital de ensino do Nordeste do Brasil. Metodologia: estudo transversal, descritivo com abordagem quantitativa e utilização de dados secundários, desenvolvido no Hospital Universitário da Universidade Federal do Piauí. A população do estudo compreendeu 377 casos de infecção relacionada à assistência à saúde, diagnosticados no período janeiro de 2015 a julho de 2016. Os dados foram analisados no software IBM® SPSS®. Resultados: observou-se uma maior ocorrência de infecções relacionadas à assistência à saúde entre idosos, totalizando 49,1%. Os principais focos de infecção foram pneumonia (30,2%), infecção do trato urinário (14,6%) e pneumonia associada à ventilação mecânica (13,3%). A ocorrência de óbitos em pacientes diagnosticados com infecção hospitalar foi de 20,7%. Conclusão: sugere-se discussões periódicas entre profissionais de saúde acerca da cadeia epidemiológica, as medidas de prevenção e controle das Infecções Relacionadas à Assistência a Saúde.Descritores: Infecção Hospitalar. Microbiologia. Enfermagem.

Hepatoid carcinoma of the ovary (HCO) was first reported in 1987 in 5 cases of malignant ovarian tumors which were similar to hepatocarcinoma in the histological analysis. We report the first case in the literature of a patient diagnosed with HCO treated using HIPEC after extensive cytoreductive surgery, and we discuss the value of this therapeutical option in patients with HCO.

Introduction and Aims: Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is increasingly used as a treatment option for unprotected left main coronary artery (ULMCA) lesions. We aimed to evaluate the long-term outcome of patients undergoing ULMCA PCI. Methods and Results: We retrospectively analyzed 95 consecutive patients (median EuroSCORE I 2.9 [IQR 1.4;6.1]) who underwent ULMCA PCI between 1999 and 2006, included in a single-center prospective registry. The primary outcome was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) defined as all-cause death, myocardial infarction (MI) and target lesion revascularization (TLR) at five years. Forty patients (42.1%) were treated in the setting of acute coronary syndrome and 81 patients (85%) had at least one additional significant lesion (SYNTAX score 24.2±11.8). Single ULMCA PCI was performed in 33% (81.1% with drug-eluting stents) and complete functional revascularization was achieved in 79% of the patients. During the observation period, 20 patients died (21.1%), 6 (6.3%) had MI and 11 (11.6%) had TLR (total combined MACE 28.4%). Independent predictors of MACE were previous MI (HR 2.9 95% CI 1.23–6.92; p=0.015), hypertension (HR 5.7 95% CI 1.86–17.47; p=0.002) and the EuroSCORE I (HR 1.1 95% CI 1.03–1.12; p=0.001). Drug-eluting stent implantation was associated with a significantly lower MACE rate, even after propensity score adjustment (AUC=0.84; HR [corrected] 0.1; 95% CI 0.04–0.26; p

Cardiac computed tomography (CT) documents the presence of coronary artery disease, regardless of the degree of stenosis. The prognostic value of non-obstructive coronary artery disease documented by cardiac CT has recently been validated. However, there are still no clear guidelines on the management of such patients, particularly concerning initiation of more aggressive pharmacological measures for primary prevention. The approach to these patients remains controversial, especially in cases in which there is a discrepancy between cardiovascular risk and the atherosclerotic burden as documented by cardiac CT.The authors describe the case of a patient with a discrepancy between the extent of documented coronary atherosclerosis and that estimated according to pretest probability and cardiovascular risk scores. As this individual had more severe coronary atherosclerosis than expected (calcium score above the 90th percentile and non-obstructive coronary artery disease on cardiac CT) but was a competitive athlete and otherwise asymptomatic and without risk factors or cardiovascular history, with a very low estimated cardiovascular risk, it was difficult to decide on the risks and benefits of pharmacological primary prevention. Resumo: A tomografia computorizada cardíaca (angioTC cardíaca) permite documentar a presença de doença coronária, independentemente do seu grau de estenose. Recentemente, foi validado o valor prognóstico da doença coronária não obstrutiva documentada por angioTC cardíaca. No entanto, não existem ainda recomendações claras acerca da abordagem destes doentes, nomeadamente sobre o início de medidas farmacológicas mais agressivas em prevenção primária. A abordagem destes doentes permanece controversa, sobretudo nos casos em que existe uma discrepância entre o risco cardiovascular e a carga aterosclerótica objetivada na angioTC.Os autores descrevem o caso de um doente com discrepância entre a extensão da aterosclerose coronária objetivada e a sua estimativa de acordo com os scores de probabilidade pré-teste e de eventos cardiovasculares. Tratando-se de um indivíduo com documentação de aterosclerose coronária acima do esperado - score de cálcio superior ao percentil 90 e doença coronária não obstrutiva na angioTC cardíaca, mas por outro lado, assintomático e sem fatores de risco nem antecedentes cardiovasculares, com uma estimativa de risco cardiovascular muito baixa e atleta de competição, torna-se difícil decidir acerca do risco/benefício de medidas farmacológicas de prevenção primária. Keywords: Cardiac computed tomography, Non-obstructive coronary artery disease, Physical exercise, Palavras-chave: Tomografia computorizada cardíaca, Doença coronária não obstrutiva, Exercício físico

Cardiac CT provides noninvasive information on cardiac anatomy, particularly in coronary artery disease. However, exposure to radiation has been identified as a limitation of this exam. The aim of this study was to evaluate variations in radiation dose over time and to identify variables associated with use of higher radiation doses.A prospective registry of 643 patients who underwent 64-slice dual source cardiac CT scan (Dual source CT--Somaton Definition, Siemens-Medical) during 2007 and 2008 was analyzed.The sample was divided into quartiles according to the chronological order of the exams. There was a progressive reduction in median radiation dose in the quartiles analyzed (Q1: 8.9 [5.9-14.1], Q2: 6.6 [5.5-10.7], Q3: 6.4 [5.3-8.7], Q4: 6.1 [5.2-7.9] mSv), significant when the first quartile was compared with the others (p0.05). Along with this reduction, was a progressive increase in the use of a tube voltage of 100 kV (p0.001). Predictors of a higher radiation dose were higher body mass index, previous cardiac surgery, atrial fibrillation during acquisition, longer acquisition time and use of a tube voltage of 120 kV. When one or more of these variables were present (one third of the population), the radiation dose was significant higher (12.1 [9.5-14.8] vs. 5.7 [5.0-6.7] mSv, p0.001).

Thromboembolism is a major cause of death in cancer patients. The association between paraneoplastic hypercoagulability of oncological patients and long-term central venous catheters (CVC) may result in CVC associated thrombosis. Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO), especially when associated with atrial septal aneurysm (ASA) is a risk factor for paradoxical embolism. We report a case of paradoxical embolism with stroke in an oncological patient with a huge CVC thrombus playing "ping-pong" with an hypermobile ASA with a PFO. We review the management of hypercoagulability in oncologic patients and discuss the potential role of routine transthoracic echocardiography before the implantation of long term central venous catheters to identify predisposing conditions to paradoxical embolism and select patients for anticoagulant therapy.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a relatively common genetic disease (prevalence of 0.2%), with a clinical spectrum that ranges from absence of symptoms to presentation as sudden cardiac death. Atypical forms are a diagnostic challenge and recent cardiac imaging techniques, such as cardiac CT and magnetic resonance imaging, can make an important contribution. We present a review of this disease based on two case reports.

Late complications from vascular closure devices, such as puncture site stenosis, are not well documented. They may be of clinical significance and probably share the same mechanism that underlies intra-coronary stent restenosis. Thus, treatment approaches based on balloon angioplasty alone may not be sufficient, and the use of stents (when possible) is safe and effective in this setting. We describe the case of a 60-year-old patient with a 90% stenosis of the femoral artery, which CT angiography strongly suggested to be secondary to previous implantation of a closure device.

The authors report the case of a 44-year-old man, with a history of hypertension, smoking, peripheral artery disease and chronic renal failure. After renal transplantation, the patient developed persistent high blood pressure, despite optimal medical therapy. When angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor therapy was begun, he developed acute anuric renal failure, which was reversed after interruption of the ACE inhibitor. After the initial clinical evaluation, the patient was referred for renal angiography, which revealed critical stenosis of the proximal left common iliac artery, just above the renal graft artery anastomosis. The patient underwent successful angioplasty and stenting of the lesion, with complete normalization of blood pressure.

Resumo: A arterite de Takayasu é uma vasculite de grandes vasos que cursa com apresentações clínicas diversas consoante os territórios afetados. Apresenta‐se o caso clínico de uma mulher de 47 anos a quem foi feito o diagnóstico de arterite de Takayasu na sequência de doença coronária rapidamente progressiva. O quadro evoluiu rapidamente, sob corticoterapia, com formação de estenoses a nível da circulação carotídea e esplâncnica, tendo‐se conseguido estabilização da doença com pulsos de ciclofosfamida e angioplastia percutânea das lesões. Abstract: Takayasu arteritis is a large vessel vasculitis with various clinical presentations depending on the territories affected. We report the case of a 47‐year‐old woman who was diagnosed with Takayasu arteritis following rapid progression of coronary disease. The condition evolved rapidly under corticosteroid therapy, with formation of new arterial stenoses within the carotid and splanchnic circulations. Disease remission was achieved with cyclophosphamide pulses and percutaneous angioplasty of the affected vessels was performed. Palavras‐chave: Arterite de Takayasu, Vasculite de grandes vasos, Vasculite, Ciclofosfamida, Doença coronária, Keywords: Takayasu arteritis, Large vessel vasculitis, Vasculitis, Cyclophosphamide, Coronary artery disease

Diabetes and other forms of impaired glucose metabolism (IGM) can be present in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), despite normal fasting glycemia and no prior evidence of diabetes. Undiagnosed IGM can be associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events.To assess the prevalence of IGM in patients with CAD and without diabetes and to identify its repercussions on their cardiovascular risk profile.Consecutive patients with CAD documented by angiography, without prior history of diabetes and fasting glycemia126 mg/dL, were studied. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed to identify and classify IGM. The patients were divided into three groups: normal if fasting glycemia100 mg/dL and normal OGTT; prediabetes if fasting glycemiaor = 100 mg/dL and abnormal OGTT, with 2-h glycemiaor = 140 and200 mg/dL; and diabetes if 2-h glycemiaor = 200 mg/dL after OGTT. For assessment of the cardiovascular risk profile, various clinical, laboratorial (including lipid profile, fasting insulinemia 2 h after OGTT, insulin resistance index and A1c hemoglobin) and angiographic characteristics were analyzed. The differences between groups were determined.54 patients were studied (mean age 65 +/- 9 years, 78 % male) and IGM was identified in 37 (69%), with prediabetes in 23 (43%) and diabetes in 14 (26%). Patients with IGM had more dyslipidemia, higher levels of fasting glycemia, triglycerides and urea and lower HDL cholesterol. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed in 12% of patients in the normal group, 44% in the prediabetes group and 50% in the diabetes group (p = 0.047). CAD was more severe in the presence of IGM, being multivessel in 84% of these patients versus 59% in the normal group (p = 0.046).In patients with CAD without clinical suspicion of diabetes, a routine OGTT can identify a significant percentage with prediabetes and diabetes, which can have a negative impact on their cardiovascular risk profile.

The growing use of abciximab during coronary angioplasty, with 12 hours of intravenous perfusion, prolongs hospital stay and increases the risk of hemorrhage after sheath removal at the puncture site. Femoral percutaneous closure devices can reduce immobilization time, but their safety in the presence of abciximab in respect to hemorrhage has not been clearly determined.To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Perclose system in patients undergoing angioplasty with abciximab.The Perclose system was used in 79 patients undergoing angioplasty, with abciximab in 31 patients (58.6 +/- 12.2 years, 90% male, p = NS)--Group 1, and 48 pts without abciximab (61.8 +/- 10.9 years, 79% male, p = NS)--Group 2. We compared heparin dose, sheath diameters, primary success rate, coronary care unit admissions and minor and major complications. One patient was previously anticoagulated with warfarin and all the others were on oral antiplatelet therapy before and after angioplasty.Primary success with the use of the Perclose system was 78%. We found no significant statistical differences between groups in respect to the presence of diabetes, sheath diameter or referral for intervention. Heparin dosage was slightly higher in group 2 (p = 0.09) and ACT was also higher in group 2 (p = 0.01). More patients in group 1 had delayed ambulation (p = 0.04) due to abciximab perfusion. In 7 patients in group 1 and 9 in group 2, additional manual/mechanical compression was needed for moderate bleeding in the first hours (p = NS). One rupture of the femoral artery with need for surgical repair (primary failure) and another delayed rupture (48 hours) occurred in group 1 (both with an associated infection), and 1 pseudoaneurysm in a patient from group 2, without abciximab but taking warfarin (p = NS). None of the variables analyzed determined the occurrence of complications. Only oral anticoagulation determined the occurrence of major complications.User of the Perclose system for percutaneous closure of the femoral artery in patients undergoing coronary angioplasty with simultaneous use of abciximab was not associated with greater morbidity than in patients without glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor antagonists.

The association between atrial fibrillation (AF) and mitral valve disease is frequent. Isolation of the pulmonary veins by radiofrequency energy applications performed intraoperatively has been proposed for patients with AF in whom mitral valve surgery has been indicated. Balloon mitral valvuloplasty is currently the preferred procedure for patients with mitral stenosis and a favorable valve anatomy.To evaluate the short- and long-term results of percutaneous pulmonary vein isolation for the treatment of AF in patients with mitral stenosis undergoing balloon mitral valvuloplasty.Five patients (four male and one female, age 43 +/- 4 years) underwent balloon mitral valvuloplasty concomitant with pulmonary vein isolation between August 1996 and February 1997. These patients had permanent AF, diagnosed 31 +/- 12 months previously; their mitral valve area was 1.0 +/- 0.25 cm2 and their left atria measured 54 +/- 5 mm. Balloon mitral valvuloplasty was performed via a transseptal approach, and then four ablation lines were created in the left atrial posterior wall to encircle all four pulmonary veins. Radiofrequency applications lasted 45 seconds each, and aimed at a maximum preset temperature of 65 degrees C. Electrical cardioversion was performed at the end of the procedure.Mitral valve area increased 1.0 +/- 0.3 cm2 after valvuloplasty. The number of radiofrequency applications per patient was 37 +/- 3, and the average duration of the entire treatment was 131 +/- 28 minutes. Fluoroscopy time averaged 32 +/- 12 minutes. All patients were discharged in sinus rhythm, and mitral flow Doppler evaluation at one month showed a biphasic pattern in all cases, with the A wave measuring 70 +/- 15 cm/sec. Three patients maintained sinus rhythm at five-year follow-up. Of these patients, one had developed a left atrial flutter at four-year follow-up and underwent ablation. The remaining two patients presented AF at five year follow-up.Percutaneous isolation of the pulmonary veins concomitant with balloon mitral valvuloplasty had suppressed AF in 60% of patients by five-year follow-up.

Thirty-three men with stable exercise-induced angina pectoris entered a randomized, double-blind, crossover study in which controlled-release isosorbide-5-mononitrate 60 mg once daily was compared with conventional isosorbide dinitrate 20 mg 3 times daily. Each drug was given for 2 weeks. Twenty-eight patients completed the study and data on exercise variables are available in 23 patients. Treatment with either drug resulted in significant antianginal effects, when measured 6 hours after a single dose and after 2 weeks of therapy compared with baseline placebo; however, there were significantly fewer signs of myocardial ischemia during treatment with isosorbide-5-mononitrate. There was no evidence of tolerance to either drug treatment but a significant attenuation of resting blood pressure (but not of exercise blood pressure) was observed with both drugs. Headache was the only clinically significant adverse event during therapy and it occurred more frequently in the isosorbide dinitrate treatment group (p less than 0.05 vs placebo); 3 such patients had to withdraw from the study because of headache. Thus, once-daily, controlled-release isosorbide-5-mononitrate appears as effective as conventional isosorbide dinitrate 3 times daily in patients with stable angina pectoris. The once-daily administration is convenient and improves patient compliance.