Comparison of urgent and early endoscopy for acute non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding in high-risk patients

ObjectiveData regarding early (within 24 h) and urgent endoscopy (within 12 h) in non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NV-UGIB) revealed conflicting results. This study aimed to investigate the impact of endoscopy timing on the outcomes of high-risk patients with NV-UGIB.Patients and methodsFrom February 2020 to February 2021, consecutive high-risk (Glasgow–Blatchford score ≥12) adults admitted to the emergency department with NV-UGIB were analyzed retrospectively. The primary composite outcome was 30-day mortality from any cause, inpatient rebleeding, need for endoscopic re-intervention, need for surgery or angiographic embolization.Results240 patients were enrolled: 152 (63%) patients underwent urgent endoscopy (<12 h) and 88 (37%) patients underwent early endoscopy (12–24 h). One or more components of the composite outcome were observed in 53 (22.1%) patients: 30 (12.5%) had 30-day mortality, rebleeding occurred in 27 (11.3%), 7 (2.9%) underwent endoscopic re-intervention, and 5 (2.1%) required surgery or angiographic embolization. The composite outcome was similar between the groups. Multivariate analysis showed only hemodynamic instability on admission (OR: 3.05, p = 0.006), and the previous history of cancer (OR: 2.42, p = 0.029) were significant in predicting composite outcome. In terms of secondary outcomes, the endoscopic intervention was higher in the urgent endoscopy group (p = 0.006), whereas the number of transfused erythrocyte suspensions and the length of hospital stay was higher in the early endoscopy group (p = 0.002 and p = 0.040, respectively).ConclusionsUrgent endoscopy leads to a significant reduction in the length of hospitalization and the number of transfused erythrocyte suspensions in NV-UGIB, which can contribute to patient satisfaction, reduce healthcare expenditure, and improve hospital bed availability. The composite outcome and its sub-outcomes were the same among both groups.     

Small bowel cleansing for capsule endoscopy in paediatric patients: A prospective randomized single-blind study

BackgroundSmall bowel cleansing by capsule endoscopy has never been addressed in children.MethodsRandomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of five bowel preparation regimens on the mucosal visibility surface (as percentage of visualized surface area). Group A: a clear liquid diet for 12 h on the day before; Group B: high volume polyethylene glycol (50 mL/kg, up to 2 Lt/die); Group C: low volume polyethylene glycol (25 mL/kg up to 1 Lt/die); Group D: 20 mL (376 mg) of oral simethicone; Group E: 25 mL/kg (up to 1 Lt/die) of polyethylene glycol solution plus 20 mL (376 mg) of oral simethicone.ResultsOverall, 198 patients (53% male, median age 13 years) were enrolled. Preparation regimen visualization scores were 14.1 ± 4.2, 18.9 ± 5.1, 17.8 ± 5.5, 14.9 ± 4.8 and 20.9 ± 4.6 in groups A, B, C, D and E, respectively (P < 0.01). Positive findings were found in 172 cases (87%), but no significant differences were observed in the diagnostic yield and tolerability. Interobserver agreement, k = 0.89 (95% CI 0.83 ± 0.71).ConclusionThis is the first report in children that supports the use of 25 mL/kg (up to 1 Lt/die) of polyethylene glycol solution plus 20 mL (376 mg) of oral simethicone as the preparation of choice for capsule endoscopy.     

Effect of GLP-1 receptor agonist on gastrointestinal tract motility and residue rates as evaluated by capsule endoscopy

AimThis study evaluated the effects of a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist on gastrointestinal (GI) tract motility and residue rates by examining GI transit time and lumen using capsule endoscopy.Material and methodsGI motility and lumen were assessed by capsule endoscopy before and after liraglutide administration in 14 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).ResultsGastric transit time in the group with diabetic neuropathy (DN) was 1:12:36 ± 1:04:30 h before liraglutide administration and 0:48:40 ± 0:32:52 h after administration (nonsignificant difference, P = 0.19). Gastric transit time in the non-DN group was 1:01:30 ± 0:52:59 h before administration and 2:33:29 ± 1:37:24 h after administration (significant increase, P = 0.03). Duodenal and small intestine transit time in the DN group was 4:10:34 ± 0:25:54 h before and 6:38:42 ± 3:52:42 h after administration (not significant, P = 0.09) and, in the non-DN group, 3:51:03 ± 0:53:47 h before and 6:45:31 ± 2:41:36 h after administration (significant increase, P = 0.03). The GI residue rate in the DN group was 32.1 ± 24% before administration and 90.0 ± 9.1% after administration (significant increase, P < 0.001), and increased in all patients; in the non-DN group, it was 32.1 ± 35.3% before and 78.3 ± 23.9% after administration (significant increase, P < 0.001), and also increased in all patients.ConclusionLiraglutide causes delayed gastric emptying and inhibits duodenal and small intestine motility. However, these GI movement-inhibiting effects may be decreased or absent in patients with DN-associated dysautonomia.     

Eficacia del octreótido sobre la recurrencia hemorrágica de las angiectasias del intestino delgado. Estudio comparativo

IntroductionFifty percent of small bowel bleeding is caused by angioectasia and the rebleeding rate due to small bowel angioectasia (SBA) is 80%. Its endoscopic treatment is difficult. Beneficial effects of octreotide on gastrointestinal angioectasia have been described, but no studies have reported its efficacy in SBA.AimOur aim was to investigate the effectiveness of octreotide in the prevention of rebleeding due to SBA.Material and methodsSixteen patients with bleeding caused by SBA were assigned to treatment with octreotide 100 μg/24 h SC, for at least 6 months, and compared with a non-treatment group of 36 patients. The primary outcome was the rebleeding rate, and the secondary outcomes were the number of hospital readmissions, bleeding-related death, and adverse effects.ResultsOctreotide was administered for 10.5 ± 8.4 months. Follow-up was 12.9 ± 17.3 months and 15.3 ± 17.7 months, in the treatment and non-treatment groups, respectively (p = 0.09). At the end of follow-up, 4 (25%) treatment group patients and 26 (72.2%) non-treatment group patients presented with rebleeding (p = 0.002). In the treatment group and non-treatment group, the cumulative probability of remaining rebleeding-free at one year was 79% vs 44.2%, and 79% vs 34.6% at 2 years, respectively (p = 0.05). Through the multiple logistic regression analysis, treatment was the protective variable. Six patients presented with adverse events. One of those patients (6.25%) had a major adverse event.ConclusionsOur results suggest that treatment with octreotide could be efficacious in the prevention of rebleeding due to SBA.     

A simple rule to personalize standard dual therapy across all genotypes in naive chronic hepatitis C patients: The TT4 randomized trial

BackgroundRapid and early virological responses to peginterferon-alpha and ribavirin are predictive of sustained virological response (SVR) in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We aimed at finding a simple rule to determine the shortest duration of dual therapy for all HCV genotypes, obtained by multiplying time to Initial Viral Response, IVR (first undetectable HCV-RNA) by 4 (Tailored Therapy-4, or TT4).Method267 naïve HCV-infected patients with compensated liver disease were randomized (2:1) to the TT4 (n = 180) or current standard-of-care (SoC, n = 87) and received peginterferon-alpha plus ribavirin. Patients with HCV-RNA decrease ≤2 log₁₀ at week 12 or detectable HCV-RNA at week 24 discontinued treatment.ResultsBoth groups had comparable baseline characteristics, SVR rates were similar in the whole population (60.6% vs. 60.9%) and within each genotype subgroup (G1: 46.6% vs. 55.6%; G2: 90.2% vs. 94.4%; G3: 74.1% vs. 58.3%; G4: 45.8% vs. 33.3%). Relapse rate was higher in G1-TT4 than G1-SoC. Treatment duration in SVR patients was shorter in TT4 compared to SoC, both overall [25 ± 15 vs. 36 ± 12.1 weeks], and for subgroups: G1 [35.3 ± 16.7 vs. 47.3 ± 2.6 weeks], G2 [18.3 ± 7.5 vs. 24 ± 2.8 weeks], G3 [15.2 ± 8.7 vs. 22.8 ± 3 weeks] and G4 [26.9 ± 13 vs. 48 weeks].ConclusionsIn HCV-naive patients, TT4-rule treatment yields similar SVR rates compared to SoC but with shorter treatment duration and remarkable cost reduction.     

Incidence and evolution of foreign body impaction in the upper gastrointestinal tract and its relationship with eosionophilic oesophagitis

BackgroundForeign body impaction is a frequent indication of urgent endoscopy. One of the reasons for impaction is eosinophilic oesophagitis (EE). To analyze characteristics of oesophageal foreign body impactions and their relationship with eosinophilic oesophagitis.MethodsIn this retrospective study, urgent endoscopies in a tertiary care centre were analyzed. We included all urgent endoscopies due to bolus and foreign body impactions performed between September 1st 2018 and September 1st 2020. We reviewed clinical data of all patients who were diagnosed with EE and compared it to impactions that were due to other motives. The mean follow-up time was 18.7 months.Results693 urgent endoscopy procedures were performed. 239 (34%) of these were due to foreign body ingestion. Mean age of the patients was 63 years old and 135 (63%) were men. EE was diagnosed in 36 (17%) patients. The factors associated with EE were age, to be younger than 50 years (OR, 7.3; 95% CI, 1.1–48.4; p = 0.04), asthma/rhinitis/atopic dermatitis (OR, 8.9; 95% CI, 2.3–35.3; p = 0.002), findings in the endoscopy as trachealization (OR, 9.7; 95% CI, 1.3–70.9; p = 0.03) and psychotropic/calcium channel blocker drugs (OR, 0.09; 95% CI, 0.009–0.9; p = 0.04). 15 (7%) patients died. In 6 of them death was impaction-related. None patients with EE died.ConclusionsForeign body impaction in the upper gastrointestinal tract due to EE is a frequent cause of urgent endoscopy. Being under 50 years of age, having asthma/rhinitis/atopic dermatitis, trachealization on the oesophagus and not taking psychotropic/calcium channel blocker drugs are factors associated with the diagnosis of EE. Mortality in the follow-up of patients without EE is important.     

Alteraciones temporomandibulares y odontológicas en pacientes con artritis reumatoide

ObjectiveTo characterize the orofacial abnormalities in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and compare them with those in a reference population.MethodsThe study included 30 RA patients and 30 consecutive patients in an odontology clinic in whom RA was ruled out. Patients underwent a clinical dental examination which included: 1) clinical and radiographic abnormalities of the temporomandibular joint; 2) biomechanical craniocervical analysis; 3) state of dentition and treatment needs; 4) periodontal status; 5) oral hygiene status; and 6) facial pain, which was compared among study groups. In addition, the association between the variables studied was determined through correlation tests.ResultsPatients with RA showed a higher prevalence of temporomandibular abnormalities, both clinical (100.0% vs. 60.0%, P < .001) and radiographic, including erosions (50.0% vs. 16.0%, P = .010), compared with individuals in the control group. Likewise, patients with RA had a greater number of missing teeth (6.9 ± 5.7 vs. 3.0 ± 2.0, P = .001), more caries (13.4 ± 5.4 vs. 4.9 ± 6.5, P = .001), periodontitis (1.3 ± 0.9 vs. 0.8 ± 0.8, P = .015), poorer oral hygiene (43.3% vs. 13.3%, P = .005) and greater facial pain (66.7% vs. 20.0%, P < .001). The cephalometric analysis of Rocabado showed differences in the craniocervical angle and hyoid triangle between RA and controls. Significant correlations were obtained between oral and temporomandibular abnormalities.ConclusionsPatients with RA showed a greater orofacial deterioration, which reflects the importance of multidisciplinary care, including periodic dental examination.     

Disección coronaria espontánea en España: un estudio sobre bases administrativas realizado a partir del Conjunto Mínimo Básico de Datos español

Introduction and objectivesSpontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare cause of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We sought to compare the results on in-hospital mortality and 30-day readmission rates among patients with AMI-SCAD vs AMI due to other causes (AMI-non-SCAD).MethodsRisk-standardized in-hospital mortality (rIMR) and risk-standardized 30-day readmission ratios (rRAR) were calculated using the minimum dataset of the Spanish National Health System (2016-2019).ResultsA total of 806 episodes of AMI-SCAD were compared with 119 425 episodes of AMI–non-SCAD. Patients with AMI-SCAD were younger and more frequently female than those with AMI–non-SCAD. Crude in-hospital mortality was lower (3% vs 7.6%; P < .001) and rIMR higher (7.6 ± 1.7% vs 7.4 ± 1.7%; P = .019) in AMI-SCAD. However, after propensity score adjustment (806 pairs), the mortality rate was similar in the 2 groups (AdjOR, 1.15; 95%CI, 0.61-2,2; P = .653). Crude 30-day readmission rates were also similar in the 2 groups (4.6% vs 5%, P = .67) whereas rRAR were lower (4.7 ± 1% vs 4.8% ± 1%; P = .015) in patients with AMI-SCAD. Again, after propensity score adjustment (715 pairs) readmission rates were similar in the 2 groups (AdjOR, 1.14; 95%CI, 0.67–1.98; P = .603).ConclusionsIn-hospital mortality and readmission rates are similar in patients with AMI-SCAD and AMI–non-SCAD when adjusted for the differences in baseline characteristics. These findings underscore the need to optimize the management, treatment, and clinical follow-up of patients with SCAD.     

No inferioridad de la titulación de enfermera de insuficiencia cardiaca en comparación con la de cardiólogo de insuficiencia cardiaca. Ensayo aleatorizado multicéntrico ETIFIC

Introduction and objectivesBeta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors), angiotensin-II-receptor-blockers (ARB), and mineralocorticoid-receptor antagonists decrease mortality and heart failure (HF) hospitalizations in HF patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. The effect is dose-dependent. Careful titration is recommended. However, suboptimal doses are common in clinical practice. This study aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of dose titration of the aforementioned drugs by HF nurses vs HF cardiologists.MethodsETIFIC was a multicenter (n = 20) noninferiority randomized controlled open label trial. A total of 320 hospitalized patients with new-onset HF, reduced ejection fraction and New York Heart Association II-III, without beta-blocker contraindications were randomized 1:1 in blocks of 4 patients each stratified by hospital: 164 to HF nurse titration vs 156 to HF cardiologist titration (144 vs 145 analyzed). The primary endpoint was the beta-blocker mean relative dose (% of target dose) achieved at 4 months. Secondary endpoints included ACE inhibitors, ARB, and mineralocorticoid-receptor antagonists mean relative doses, associated variables, adverse events, and clinical outcomes at 6 months.ResultsThe mean ± standard deviation relative doses achieved by HF nurses vs HF cardiologists were as follows: beta-blockers 71.09% ± 31.49% vs 56.29% ± 31.32%, with a difference of 14.8% (95%CI, 7.5-22.1), P < .001; ACE inhibitors 72.61% ± 29.80% vs 56.13% ± 30.37%, P < .001; ARB 44.48% ± 33.47% vs 43.51% ± 33.69%, P = .93; and mineralocorticoid-receptor antagonists 71% ± 32.12% vs 70.47% ± 29.78%, P = .86; mean ± standard deviation visits were 6.41 ± 2.82 vs 2.81 ± 1.58, P < .001, while the number (%) of adverse events were 34 (23.6) vs 30 (20.7), P = .55; and at 6 months HF hospitalizations were 1 (0.69) vs 9 (5.51), P = .01.ConclusionsETIFIC is the first multicenter randomized trial to demonstrate the noninferiority of HF specialist-nurse titration vs HF cardiologist titration. Moreover, HF nurses achieved higher beta-blocker/ACE inhibitors doses, with more outpatient visits and fewer HF hospitalizations.Trial registry number: NCT02546856.     

A simplified clinical risk score predicts the need for early endoscopy in non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding

BackgroundPre-endoscopic triage of patients who require an early upper endoscopy can improve management of patients with non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding.AimsTo validate a new simplified clinical score (T-score) to assess the need of an early upper endoscopy in non variceal bleeding patients. Secondary outcomes were re-bleeding rate, 30-day bleeding-related mortality.MethodsIn this prospective, multicentre study patients with bleeding who underwent upper endoscopy were enrolled. The accuracy for high risk endoscopic stigmata of the T-score was compared with that of the Glasgow Blatchford risk score.ResultsOverall, 602 patients underwent early upper endoscopy, and 472 presented with non-variceal bleeding. High risk endoscopic stigmata were detected in 145 (30.7%) cases. T-score sensitivity and specificity for high risk endoscopic stigmata and bleeding-related mortality was 96% and 30%, and 80% and 71%, respectively. No statistically difference in predicting high risk endoscopic stigmata between T-score and Glasgow Blatchford risk score was observed (ROC curve: 0.72 vs. 0.69, p = 0.11). The two scores were also similar in predicting re-bleeding (ROC curve: 0.64 vs. 0.63, p = 0.4) and 30-day bleeding-related mortality (ROC curve: 0.78 vs. 0.76, p = 0.3).ConclusionsThe T-score appeared to predict high risk endoscopic stigmata, re-bleeding and mortality with similar accuracy to Glasgow Blatchford risk score. Such a score may be helpful for the prediction of high-risk patients who need a very early therapeutic endoscopy.     

Función endotelial y microvascular distal a stents farmacoactivos sin polímero y captadores de células endoteliales. Estudio aleatorizado FUNCOMBO

Introduction and objectivesThe vasomotor function of new-generation drug-eluting stents designed to enhance stent healing and reendothelialization is unknown. This study aimed to compare the endothelial function of the infarct-related artery (IRA) treated with bioactive circulating endothelial progenitor cell-capturing sirolimus-eluting stents (COMBO) vs polymer-free biolimus-eluting stents (BioFreedom) in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients at 6 months. Secondary objectives were to compare the microcirculatory function of the IRA and stent healing at 6 months.MethodsSixty patients were randomized to bioactive sirolimus-eluting stent vs polymer-free biolimus-eluting stents implantation. At 6 months, patients underwent coronary angiography with vasomotor, microcirculatory and optical coherence tomography examinations. Endothelial dysfunction of the distal coronary segment was defined as ≥ 4% vasoconstriction to intracoronary acetylcholine infusion.ResultsEndothelial dysfunction was similarly observed between groups (64.0% vs 62.5%, respectively; P = .913). Mean lumen diameter decreased by 16.0 ± 20.2% vs 16.1 ± 21.6% during acetylcholine infusion (P = .983). Microcirculatory function was similar in the 2 groups: coronary flow reserve was 3.23 ± 1.77 vs 3.23 ± 1.62 (P = .992) and the index of microcirculatory resistance was 24.8 ± 16.8 vs 21.3 ± 12.0 (P = .440). Optical coherence tomography findings were similar: uncovered struts (2.3% vs 3.2%; P = .466), malapposed struts (0.1% vs 0.3%; P = .519) and major evaginations (7.1% vs 5.6%; P = .708) were observed in few cases.ConclusionsEndothelial dysfunction of the IRA was frequent and was similarly observed with new-generation drug-eluting stents designed to enhance stent reendothelialization at 6 months. Endothelial dysfunction was observed despite almost preserved microcirculatory function and complete stent coverage. Larger and clinically powered studies are needed to assess the role of residual endothelial dysfunction in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients.Registered in ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04202172Full English text available from:www.revespcardiol.org/en     

iMap intravascular ultrasound evaluation of culprit and non-culprit lesions in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to evaluate plaque characteristics of culprit and non-culprit lesions in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients at the index procedure and 10 months later using iMap intravascular ultrasound (IVUS).BackgroundThe exact site of the plaque rupture or erosion in coronary arteries with subsequent thrombosis cannot be precisely defined. Our hypothesis is that in STEMI patients angiographically guided stenting could fail to identify necrotic tissue and thus may leave an uncovered significant amount of vulnerable plaque.MethodsIn 63 consecutive STEMI patients the culprit artery was analyzed with iMap IVUS at the time of the index procedure and 10 months later. The most stenotic culprit segment was compared to the segment proximal to the culprit lesion.ResultsA high percentage of necrotic tissue was observed in the culprit lesion and a comparatively lower percentage of necrotic tissue was observed in the non-culprit lesions proximal to the culprit at the index procedure by iMap IVUS (31.9% ± 10.0% vs 27.8% ± 11.8%, p = 0.012). The proportion of necrotic tissue in the segment proximal to the culprit lesion was unchanged at 10-month follow-up (27.1% ± 11.9% vs 25.5% ± 12.8%, p = 0.147). The percentage of lipidic tissue in the proximal segment decreased at 10-month follow-up (9.8% ± 2.9% vs 8.8 ± 3.0%, p = 0.009).ConclusionsIn STEMI patients, culprit lesion segments and non-culprit segments contain high proportions of necrotic tissue. However, a comparatively higher proportion of necrotic tissue was found in the culprit lesions according to iMap IVUS. The percentage of necrotic tissue remained high at 10-month follow-up in both culprit and non-culprit segments.     

Oral ingestion versus endoscopic delivery of endoscopic capsule in patients with previous gastrointestinal surgery (ORENCES study): A Spanish multicentre observational study

BackgroundSmall Bowel Capsule Endoscopy is the first-choice technique for investigating the majority of small bowel diseases. Its most common complications are related to incomplete examinations and capsule retention. There is no consensus on how patients with previous gastrointestinal surgery should receive the capsule.ObjectiveThe primary endpoint was to compare the rate of complete small-bowel examinations (completion rate) between oral ingestion and endoscopic delivery of the capsule. The secondary endpoint was to compare diagnostic yield and adverse events in the two groups.MethodsA retrospective observational study was conducted in nine hospitals in Spain. Demographic data, previous surgery, indication for capsule endoscopy, intestinal transit time, diagnosis, completion rate (percentage of capsules reaching the caecum), diagnostic yield (percentage of results compatible with indication for the exam) and adverse events were collected.ResultsFrom January 2009 to May 2019 fifty-seven patients were included (39 male, mean age 66 ± 15 years). The most common indications for the exam were “overt” (50.9%) and “occult” (35.1%) small bowel bleeding. Previous Billroth II gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass were present in 52.6% and 17.5% of patients respectively. The capsule was swallowed in 34 patients and placed endoscopically in 23 patients. No significant differences were observed between the oral ingestion and endoscopic delivery groups in terms of completion rate (82.4% vs. 78.3%; p = 0.742), diagnostic yield (41.2% vs. 52.2%; p = 0.432) or small bowel transit time (301 vs. 377 min, p = 0.118). No capsule retention occurred. Only one severe adverse event (anastomotic perforation) was observed in the endoscopic delivery group.ConclusionsIn our case series, there were no significant differences between oral ingestion and endoscopic delivery in terms of completion rate, diagnostic yield or safety. Being less invasive, oral ingestion of the capsule should be the first-choice method in patients with previous gastrointestinal surgery.     

P-wave dispersion and left atrial indices as predictors of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in patients with non hemorrhagic cerebrovascular strokes and transient ischemic attacks

BackgroundOne-third of stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) are cryptogenic requiring additional investigation and intervention. Occult Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation (PAF) has been suggested as a possible cause for these cryptogenic strokes.ObjectiveThe aim of our study is to evaluate the role of simple ECG & bedside echocardiographic parameters for prediction of PAF in patients presenting with stroke or TIAs.Patients & methodsThe study included 60 patients with non hemorrhagic stroke. During 1 week of continuous ICU monitoring, 30% of patients had PAF (group 1), the remaining 42 patients did not develop PAF (group 2). All patients were subjected to detailed history taking, thorough clinical examination including NIHSS, serial ECGs for calculation of maximum and minimum P wave duration (P_max, and P_min) & P wave dispersion (P_dis), and transthoracic echocardiography for calculation of left atrial volume (LAV), and left atrial volume index (LAVI).ResultsIt was found that P_max & P_dis were significantly higher in group 1 in comparison to group 2 (147.7 ± 9.6 mm vs 114.3 ± 9 mm, P: <0.001) and (54.1 ± 7.5 mm vs 30.2 ± 7 mm, P: <0.001), respectively. Also LAV & LAVI were significantly higher in group 1 compared to group 2 (57.1 ± 10 mm vs 40.1 ± 12 mm, P: <0.001) & (28.9 ± 3 mm²/m² vs 20.1 ± 8 mm²/m², P: <0.001), respectively. On multivariate logistic regression analysis P_max, P_dis, and LAVI were the most significant independent predictors of PAF.ConclusionPAF is a possible etiology of patients with ischemic cerebrovascular accidents patients even in those who had normal sinus rhythm on admission. P_max ⩾ 125 mm, P_dis ⩾ 40 mm, and LAVI ⩾ 24 are highly significant predictors of PAF with PPV of 99%, 96% and 78%, respectively, sensitivity of 98%, 94% and 89%, respectively, specificity 96%, 93% and 75%, respectively and AUC of 0.99, 0.98 and 0.87, respectively.     

Experimental assessment of a novel robotically-driven endoscopic capsule compared to traditional colonoscopy

BackgroundDespite colonoscopy represents the conventional diagnostic tool for colorectal pathology, its undeniable discomfort reduces compliance to screening programmes.AimsTo evaluate feasibility and accuracy of a novel robotically-driven magnetic capsule for colonoscopy as compared to the traditional technique.MethodsEleven experts and eleven trainees performed complete colonoscopy by robotic magnetic capsule and by conventional colonoscope in a phantom ex vivo model (artificially clean swine bowel). Feasibility, overall accuracy to detect installed pins, procedure elapsed time and intuitiveness were measured for both techniques in both operator groups.ResultsComplete colonoscopy was feasible in all cases with both techniques. Overall 544/672 pins (80.9%) were detected by experimental capsule procedure, while 591/689 pins (85.8%) were detected within conventional colonoscopy procedure (P = ns), thus establishing non-inferiority. With the experimental capsule procedure, experts detected 74.2% of pins vs. 87.6% detected by trainees (P < 0.0001). Overall time to complete colon inspection by robotic capsule was significantly higher than by conventional colonoscopy (556 ± 188 s vs. 194 ± 158 s, respectively; P = 0.0001).ConclusionWith the limitations represented by an ex vivo setting (artificially clean swine bowel and the absence of peristalsis), colonoscopy by this novel robotically-driven capsule resulted feasible and showed adequate accuracy compared to conventional colonoscopy.     

Similarities and differences between non-radiographic and radiographic axial spondyloarthritis: The patient perspective from the Spanish atlas

AimAlthough non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (EspAax-nr) is well understood within health institutions, being considered along with radiographic EspAax (EspAax-r) as part of the same disease spectrum, patient understanding is unknown. The aim is to describe the patient's knowledge of the EspAax-nr entity.MethodsAtlas 2017, promoted by the Spanish Federation of Spondylarthritis Associations (CEADE), aims to comprehensively understand the reality of EspAax patients from a holistic approach. A cross-sectional on-line survey of unselected patients with self-reported EspAax diagnosis from Spain was conducted. Participants were asked to report their diagnosis. Socio-demographic, disease characteristics and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were compared between those patients self-reporting as EspAax-nr and EspAax-r.Results634 EspAax patients participated. Mean age 45.7 ± 10.9 years, 50.9% female and 36.1% university-educated. 35 (5.2%) self-reported as EspAax-nr. Compared to EspAax-r patients, those with EspAax-nr were more frequently women (48.6% vs 91.4%, p < 0.001), had longer diagnostic delay (10.1 ± 8.9 vs 8.5 ± 7.6 years), higher psychological distress (GHQ-12: 7.5 ± 4.9 vs 5.6 ± 4.4) and similar degree of disease activity (BASDAI: 5.7 ± 2.1 vs 5.7 ± 2.0), and unemployment rates (20.0% vs 21.6%). 20.0% of EspAax-nr received biologics vs 36.9% of EspAax-r, p = 0.043. Visits to the rheumatologist in the past year were similar in both groups (3.8 ± 4.5 vs 3.2 ± 3.8), while GP visits were much higher within EspAax-nr (8.0 ± 10.7 vs 4.9 ± 13.3 p = 0.003).ConclusionFor the first time, EspAax-nr characteristics and PROs have been analyzed from the patient's perspective. Both groups reported similar trends with the exception of EspAax-nr being more frequently women, younger, having longer diagnostic delay and lower use of biologic therapy.     

Clinical value of the Integrated Pulmonary Index® during sedation for interventional upper GI-endoscopy: A randomized,prospective tri-center study

Background and study aimsThe Integrated Pulmonary Index^® (IPI) is a mathematically-determined factor based on parameters of capnography and pulse oximetry, which should enable sensitive detection of impaired respiratory function. Aim was to investigate whether an additional measurement of the IPI during sedation for interventional endoscopy, compared to standard monitoring alone, allows a reduction of sedation-related respiratory depression.Patients and methods170 patients with standard monitoring randomly underwent either a blinded recording of capnography (control group, n = 87) or capnography, including automated IPI calculation (IPI group, n = 83), during deep sedation with midazolam and propofol. The primary endpoint was the maximum decrease of oxygen saturation from the baseline level before sedation. Secondary endpoints: incidence of hypoxemia (SaO₂ < 90%), other sedation-related complications (apnea rate, bradycardia, hypotension), patient cooperation and satisfaction (VAS).ResultsMean propofol dose in the IPI group (245 ± 61 mg) was comparable to the control group (225 ± 47 mg). The average drop of the oxygen saturation in the IPI group (6.5 ± 4.1%) was nearly identical to that of the control group (7.1 ± 4.6%, p = 0.44). Apnea episodes >15 s was found in 46 patients of the control and 31 of the IPI group (p < 0.05). Frequency of occurrence of a drop in pO₂-saturation <90%, bradycardia <50/min or a drop of systolic pressure <90 mmHg were not significantly different in both groups. Mechanical ventilation was not required in any case. Patient cooperation and satisfaction were assessed similar in both groups.ConclusionA clinically appealing advantage of IPI-assessment during deep sedation with midazolam and propofol for interventional endoscopy could not be documented. However, IPI registration was more effective in reducing the incidence of apnea episodes.     

Utilidad de la cápsula endoscópica en el diagnóstico de la enfermedad injerto contra huésped gastrointestinal

Introduction and aimGraft-versus-host disease (GvHD) is a complication of hematopoietic cell transplantation, and the small bowel is one of the main targets in the gastrointestinal tract. Capsule endoscopy is a safe procedure and can be useful in the diagnosis of GvHD. The aim of the present study was to compare the diagnostic yield of capsule endoscopy with the histopathologic findings in GvHD.Materials and methodsA retrospective diagnostic test study included all the patients with suspected GvHD that underwent gastroscopy and colonoscopy, with histopathologic evaluation of the biopsies taken, and capsule endoscopy, within the time frame of July 2015 and July 2019. Capsule endoscopy findings were compared with the histopathologic diagnosis, considered the gold standard.ResultsTwenty-one patients with GvHD (7 [33%] women; 37 ± 11.9 years of age) were included, 20 (95%) of whom had acute GvHD. The median gastric transit time of the capsule was 55 minutes (20-113) and the median small bowel transit time was 261 minutes (238-434). The entire small bowel was visualized through capsule endoscopy in 17 cases (80.95%). The histopathologic findings and capsule endoscopy findings resulted in the diagnosis of GvHD in 17 and 16 cases, respectively. There was agreement between the histopathologic and capsule endoscopy findings in 18 cases (15 positive and 3 negative). Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and diagnostic yield of capsule endoscopy were 88%, 75%, 94%, 60%, and 85%, respectively.ConclusionsCapsule endoscopy is a safe tool for the diagnosis of GvHD, with high sensitivity and positive predictive value, as well as moderate agreement with histopathologic findings.     

Door-to-balloon time in radial versus femoral approach for primary percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) is considered the preferred reperfusion strategy for patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). This study compares the door-to-balloon (D2B) time between transradial vs. the transfemoral approach in patients presenting with STEMI.MethodsA retrospectively collected catheterization laboratory database was reviewed for the consecutive patients presenting with a STEMI. Specific time parameters were recorded, and our composite end points were time to revascularization, angiographic success, short term clinical success, and procedural vascular complications.ResultsRadial PCI (r-PCI) was performed in 33 patients (67.3%) and in 16 patients (32.7%) PCI was done through femoral artery (f-PCI). No significant difference was observed in the pre-catheter and catheter laboratory times. Mean times from emergency room door-to-catheter laboratory time for r-PCI vs. f-PCI were 82.48 ± 37.42 and 76.29 ± 34.32 min, respectively (P = 0.636). The mean time from patient arrival to the cardiac catheter laboratory-to-balloon inflation was 34.56 ± 14.2 in the r-PCI group vs. 33.12 ± 12.56 min with the f-PCI group (P = 0.215). The total D2B time was not significantly different between r-PCI vs. f-PCI groups (100.32 ± 36.3 vs. 97.31 ± 30.37 min, respectively, P = 0.522). Angiographic success rates were observed in 92.1% of the patients for r-PCI, and in 87.5% for f-PCI (P = 0.712). There were no vascular complications in both groups.ConclusionsPatients presenting with STEMI can undergo successful pPCI via radial artery without compromising patient care.     

Metabolic manipulation in dilated cardiomyopathy: Assessing the role of trimetazidine

ObjectivesTo study the role of metabolic modulator (trimetazidine: TMZ) in dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). Optimizing altered substrate metabolism in heart failure (HF) with metabolic modulators allows more efficacious energy production from glucose than from free fatty acids.Methods100 patients of DCM (47.7 years, NYHA class 2.17, LVEF 27.3%) were randomized to TMZ (20 mg tid, n = 50) vs conventional therapy (n = 50). Functional status, BNP and various echocardiographic parameters were assessed at 3–6 months.ResultsAt 3 months, TMZ group had significantly improved NYHA class (2.25 vs 1.85), 6 min walk test (349.7 vs 402 m), LVD-36 score (25.5 vs 21) and BNP (744.7 vs 248.3 pg/ml), all p 0.001. Significant improvement was also seen in LV end-systolic (LVESV, 87.1 ± 27.5 vs 78.5 ± 24.9 ml/m², p 0.001), LV end-diastolic volumes (LVEDV, 117.6 ± 29.3 vs 110.9 ± 27.4 ml/m², p 0.001), LVEF (27 vs 30.9%, p 0.001) and LV wall stress (90.2 ± 18.9 vs 71.1 ± 13.2 dyn/cm², p 0.0001). The % change in LVESV, LVEDV, LVEF and LV wall stress was −9.5%, −5.4%, +8.4% and −21.8%. Other echo parameters also improved after 3 months of TMZ (E/A ratio 1.9 vs 1.2, p = 0.001, E/A VTI 2.7 vs 1.6, p = 0.001, myocardial performance index, MPI 0.8 vs 0.7, p = 0.0001), Tissue Doppler parameters (E/E′ septal (19.7 vs 12.5, p = 0.001) and E/E′ lateral (13.3 vs 9.4, p = 0.0001)). Patients in control group had no change in NYHA class, LVD-36 scores, LV volumes or LVEF at 3 months although BNP and LV wall stress reduced to a slight extent. Patients on TMZ had further improvement in NYHA class, walk test, BNP levels and echocardiographic parameters at 6 months.ConclusionsMetabolic modulators (TMZ) may help in improving LV function in DCM. In this study, benefit was noted by 3 months with further improvement at 6 months.