Accuracy of the TIMI and GRACE scores in predicting coronary disease in patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome

Introduction

The GRACE and TIMI scores have been well validated for assessment of prognosis in non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS). However, their value in predicting coronary artery disease (CAD) has been little studied. We aimed to assess the relationship between these scores and the extent of coronary disease.

Associação entre Escores de Risco Clínico (HEART,GRACE e TIMI) e Complexidade Angiográfica na Síndrome Coronária Aguda sem Elevação do Segmento ST

Background:GRACE, TIMI and HEART scores have been previously validated to predict serious untoward events among patients with non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (Non-ST ACS). However, the ability of these scores to discriminate the angiographic complexity of coronary artery disease has not been clearly established.Objectives:We sought to evaluate the correlation between clinical scores (TIMI, GRACE and HEART) and the anatomical complexity assessed by SYNTAX score, among non-ST ACS patients undergoing cinecoronariography.Methods:Transversal cohort encompassing patients with diagnosis of Non-ST ACS referred to invasive stratification in our single center, between July 2018 and February 2019. Association between the scores was established by the Pearson''s linear correlation test while the accuracy of the clinical scores versus SYNTAX score was determined with the ROC curve.Results:A total of 138 patients were enrolled. Median GRACE, TIMI and HEART scores were 97, 3 and 5, respectively, whereas the median SYNTAX was 8. There was a positive correlation between the SYNTAX and the HEART (ρ =0.29; p<0.01) and GRACE (ρ =0.18; p<0.01) scores, but the correlation with TIMI reached no statistical significance (ρ =0.15; p=0.08). The HEART score was also the one with the highest area under the curve to predict a SYNTAX ≥32 [HEART = 0.81 (IC95% 0.7-0.91). HEART> 4 presented 100% sensitivity, with 50% specificity; and GRACE> 139 showed 55% sensitivity and 97% specificity for high SYNTAX.Conclusion:The clinical scores presented a positive, although modest, association with the SYNTAX score. The combined use of HEART and GRACE offers good accuracy for detecting angiographic complexity.     

A novel risk stratification system “Angiographic GRACE Score” for predicting in-hospital mortality of patients with acute myocardial infarction: Data from the K-ACTIVE Registry

BackgroundThe Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) score is the most accurate risk assessment system for acute myocardial infarction (AMI), which was proposed in Western countries. However, it is unclear whether GRACE score is applicable to the present Japanese patients with a high prevalence of emergent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and vasospasm. This study aimed to clarify the usefulness of GRACE risk score for risk stratification of Japanese AMI patients treated with early PCI and to evaluate a novel risk stratification system, “angiographic GRACE score,” which is the GRACE risk score adjusted by the information of the culprit coronary artery and its flow at pre- and post-PCI, to improve its predicting availability.MethodsThe subjects were 1817 AMI patients who underwent PCI within 24 h of onset between October 2015 and August 2017 and were registered in Kanagawa Acute Cardiovascular (K-ACTIVE) Registry via survey form. The association between the clinical parameters and in-hospital mortality was investigated.ResultsA total of 79 (4.3%) in-hospital deaths were identified. The C-statistics for the in-hospital mortality of the GRACE score was 0.86, which was higher than that of the other conventional risk factors, including age (0.65), systolic blood pressure (0.70), heart rate (0.62), Killip classification (0.77), and serum levels of creatinine (0.68) and peak creatine kinase (0.74). The angiographic GRACE score improved the C-statistics from 0.86 of the original GRACE score to 0.89 (p < 0.05). In the setting of the cut-off value at 200, in-hospital mortality in the patients with the angiographic GRACE score <200 was 0.6%, which was relatively lower than those with ≥200, 9.4%.ConclusionsThe GRACE score is a useful predictor of in-hospital mortality among Japanese AMI patients in the PCI era. Moreover, the angiographic GRACE score could improve the predicting availability.     

Prognostic Value of SYNTAX Score in Patients With Infarct-Related Cardiogenic Shock: Insights From the CULPRIT-SHOCK Trial

ObjectivesThis study sought to evaluate the prognostic value of the SYNTAX (SYNergy between PCI with TAXUS and Cardiac Surgery) scores in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for multivessel coronary disease with infarct-related cardiogenic shock (CS).BackgroundThe prognostic value of the SYNTAX score in this high-risk setting remains unclear.MethodsThe CULPRIT-SHOCK (Culprit Lesion Only PCI versus Multivessel PCI in Cardiogenic Shock) trial was an international, open-label trial, where patients presenting with infarct-related CS and multivessel disease were randomized to a culprit-lesion-only or an immediate multivessel PCI strategy. Baseline SYNTAX score was assessed by a central core laboratory and categorized as low SYNTAX score (SS ≤22), intermediate SYNTAX score (22<SS≤32) and high SYNTAX score (SS>32). Adjudicated endpoints of interest were the 30-day risk of death or renal replacement therapy (RRT) and 1-year death. Associations between baseline SYNTAX score and outcomes were assessed using multivariate logistic regression.ResultsPre-PCI SYNTAX score was available in 624 patients, of whom 263 (42.1%), 207 (33.2%) and 154 (24.7%) presented with low, intermediate and high SYNTAX score, respectively. A stepwise increase in the incidence of adverse events was observed from low to intermediate and high SYNTAX score for the 30-day risk of death or RRT and the 1-year risk of death (p < 0.001, for all). After multiple adjustments, intermediate and high SYNTAX score remained strongly associated with 30-day risk of death or renal replacement therapy and 1-year risk of all-cause death. There was no significant interaction between SYNTAX score and the coronary revascularization strategy for any outcomes.ConclusionsIn patients presenting with multivessel disease and infarct-related CS, the SYNTAX score was strongly associated with 30-day death or RRT and 1-year mortality.     

Improved predictive value of GRACE risk score combined with platelet reactivity for 1-year cardiovascular risk in patients with acute coronary syndrome who underwent coronary stent implantation

Both high platelet reactivity (HPR) and Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) risk score have moderate predictive value for major adverse cardiovascular disease (CVD) events in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), whereas the prognostic significance of GRACE risk score combined with platelet function testing remains unclear. A total of 596 patients with non-ST elevation ACS who underwent PCI were enrolled. The P2Y₁₂ reaction unit (PRU) value was measured by VerifyNow P2Y₁₂ assay and GRACE score was calculated by GRACE risk 2.0 calculator. Patients were stratified by a pre-specified cutoff value of PRU 230 and GRACE score 140 to assess 1-year risk of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI), and stent thrombosis. Seventy-two (12.1%) patients developed CVD events during 1-year follow-up. Patients with CVD events had a higher PRU value (244.6 ± 50.9 vs. 203.7 ± 52.0, p < 0.001) and GRACE score (185.2 ± 45.6 vs. 149.7 ± 40.1, p < 0.001) than those without events. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that both platelet reactivity and GRACE score were associated with 1-year CVD risk independently. Compared to patients with normal platelet reactivity (NPR) and GRACE score < 140, those with HPR and GRACE score ≥ 140 were exposed to significantly elevated CVD risk (HR: 5.048; 95% CI: 2.268–11.237; p < 0.001). Adding platelet reactivity on the top of GRACE risk score yielded superior risk predictive capacity beyond GRACE score alone, which is shown by improved c-statistic value (0.871, p = 0.002) as well as net reclassification improvement (NRI 0.263, p < 0.001) and integrated discrimination improvement (IDI 0.018, p = 0.002). In patients with NSTE-ACS who underwent PCI, high on-treatment platelet reactivity and high GRACE score led to greater risk of adverse CVD events. The combination of platelet function testing and GRACE score predicted 1-year CVD risk better.     

SYNTAX Score and Outcomes of Coronary Revascularization in Diabetic Patients

Purpose of Review

This review describes the dynamic relationship between diabetes mellitus (DM) and coronary artery disease (CAD) with respect to different revascularization strategies and how angiographic tools such as the Synergy between PCI with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery (SYNTAX) score can supplement clinical decision-making.

Recent Findings

The SYNTAX score characterizes the anatomical extent of CAD in terms of the number of lesions, functional importance, and complexity. Studies not limited to patients with DM suggest that percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a reasonable alternative to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in patients with low-medium SYNTAX scores, while patients with high SYNTAX scores should be revascularized with CABG if operable. Similar findings were also observed for diabetes patients with multivessel disease in retrospective pooled analysis. The SYNTAX II score combines anatomical and clinical risk to improve upon the decision regarding the optimal revascularization strategy. The SYNTAX II score can be applied to patients with DM.

Summary

The SYNTAX scores provide guidance to clinicians faced with determining the optimal revascularization strategy in patients with DM and advanced CAD. Using a heart team approach, the information can be considered along with other factors that influence PCI or CABG risk.

     

An analysis of patients receiving emergency CAG without PCI and the value of GRACE score in predicting PCI possibilities in NSTE-ACS patients

Background There are patients who underwent emergency coronary angiography (CAG) but did not receive percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The aim of this study was to analyze these reasons. Methods This is a single-center retrospective study. We recruited 201 consecutive patients who received emergency CAG but did not receive PCI. To investigate the value of the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) score in predicting PCI possibilities in non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS) patients, we recruited 80 consecutive patients who presented with NSTE-ACS and received emergency CAG as well as emergency PCI. Results Among the 201 patients who received emergency CAG but did not receive PCI, 26% patients had final diagnosis other than coronary heart disease. In the patients with significant coronary artery stenosis, 23 patients (11.5%) were recommended to coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), one patient (0.5%) refused PCI; 13 patients (6.5%) with significant thrombus burden were treated with glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor antagonist; 74 patients (36.8%) were treated with drug therapy because no severe stenosis (> 70%) was present in the crime vessel. Moreover, 80 of the 201 patients were presented with NSTE-ACS (excluding those patients with final diagnosis other than coronary heart disease, excluding those patients planned for CABG treatment), referred as non PCI NSTE-ACS. When comparing their GRACE scores with 80 consecutive patients presented with NSTE-ACS who received emergency CAG as well as emergency PCI (referred as PCI NSTE-ACS), we found that PCI NSTE-ACS patients had significantly higher GRACE scores compared with non PCI NSTE-ACS patients. We then used Receiver Operator Characteristic Curve (ROC) to test whether the GRACE score is good at evaluating the possibilities of PCI in NSTE-ACS patients. The area under the curve was 0.854 ± 0.030 (P < 0.001), indicating good predictive value. Furthermore, we analyzed results derived from ROC statistics, and found that a GRACE score of 125.5, as a cut-off, has high sensitivity and specificity in evaluating PCI possibilities in NSTE-ACS patients. Conclusions Our findings indicate that the GRACE score has predictive value in determining whether NSTE-ACS patients would receive PCI.     

Validation of the GRACE score for prognosis in Indian patients with acute coronary syndromes

AimTo validate the global registry of acute coronary events (GRACE) score in acute coronary syndromes (ACS) patients and study its angiographic correlation.Methods and resultsTwo-hundred and thirty-five ACS patients were studied for the combined endpoint of all-cause in-hospital mortality and non-fatal infarction/reinfarction. We tested the predictive accuracy of the composite GRACE score using the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve.Lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) (odds ratio [OR] 7.93, P=0.005), ST-segment deviation (OR 7.79, P=0.02) and cardiac biomarker positivity (OR > 6.52, P=0.01) were significantly associated with events. Serum creatinine > 1.4 mg/dL showed a trend towards statistical significance (OR 4.14, P=0.05), whereas age > 50 years (OR 3.62, P=not significant [NS]) and Killips class 4 (OR 2.71, P=NS) showed good association. The best value for predicting events was a GRACE score of > 217 and these patients were more likely to have double/triple vessel disease (P = 0.0009). The C statistic for the GRACE score was 0.75.ConclusionHigher GRACE score predicts in-hospital events and more severe angiographic coronary artery disease (CAD).     

Competência Prognóstica Distinta entre Modelo Clínico e Anatômico em Síndromes Coronarianas Agudas: Comparação por Tipo de Desfecho

BackgroundRecurrent ischemic events are mediated by atherosclerotic plaque instability, whereas death after an ischemic event results from gravity of insult and ability of the organism to adapt. The distinct nature of those types of events may respond for different prediction properties of clinical and anatomical information regarding type of outcome.ObjectiveTo identify prognostic properties of clinical and anatomical data in respect of fatal and non-fatal outcomes of patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndromes (ACS).MethodsPatients consecutively admitted with ACS who underwent coronary angiography were recruited. The SYNTAX score was utilized as an anatomic model and the GRACE score as a clinical model. The predictive capacity of those scores was separately evaluated for prediction of non-fatal ischemic outcomes (infarction and refractory angina) and cardiovascular death during hospitalization. It was considered as significant a p-value <0,05.ResultsEAmong 365 people, cardiovascular death was observed in 4,4% and incidence of non-fatal ischemic outcomes in 11%. For cardiovascular death, SYNTAX and GRACE score presented similar C-statistic of 0,80 (95% IC: 0,70 – 0,92) and 0,89 (95% IC 0,81 – 0,96), respectively – p = 0,19. As for non-fatal ischemic outcomes, the SYNTAX score presented a moderate predictive value (C-statistic = 0,64; 95%IC 0,55 – 0,73), whereas the GRACE score did not presented association with this type of outcome (C-statistic = 0,50; 95%IC 0,40-0,61) – p = 0,027.ConclusionClinical and anatomic models similarly predict cardiovascular death in ACS. However, recurrence of coronary instability is better predicted by anatomic variables than clinical data. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)     

Predictive Value of the Residual SYNTAX Score in Patients With Cardiogenic Shock

BackgroundIn hemodynamically stable patients, complete revascularization (CR) following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is associated with a better prognosis in chronic and acute coronary syndromes.ObjectivesThis study sought to assess the extent, severity, and prognostic value of remaining coronary stenoses following PCI, by using the residual SYNTAX score (rSS), in patients with cardiogenic shock (CS) related to myocardial infarction (MI).MethodsThe CULPRIT-SHOCK (Culprit Lesion Only Percutaneous Coronary Intervention [PCI] Versus Multivessel PCI in Cardiogenic Shock) trial compared a multivessel PCI (MV-PCI) strategy with a culprit lesion–only PCI (CLO-PCI) strategy in patients with multivessel coronary artery disease who presented with MI-related CS. The rSS was assessed by a central core laboratory. The study group was divided in 4 subgroups according to tertiles of rSS of the participants, thereby isolating patients with an rSS of 0 (CR). The predictive value of rSS for the 30-day primary endpoint (mortality or severe renal failure) and for 30-day and 1-year mortality was assessed using multivariate logistic regression.ResultsAmong the 587 patients with an rSS available, the median rSS was 9.0 (interquartile range: 3.0 to 17.0); 102 (17.4%), 100 (17.0%), 196 (33.4%), and 189 (32.2%) patients had rSS = 0, 0 < rSS ≤5, 5 < rSS ≤14, and rSS >14, respectively. CR was achieved in 75 (25.2%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 20.3% to 30.5%) and 27 (9.3%; 95% CI: 6.2% to 13.3%) of patients treated using the MV-PCI and CLO-PCI strategies, respectively. After multiple adjustments, rSS was independently associated with 30-day mortality (adjusted odds ratio per 10 units: 1.49; 95% CI: 1.11 to 2.01) and 1-year mortality (adjusted odds ratio per 10 units: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.11 to 2.07).ConclusionsAmong patients with multivessel disease and MI-related CS, CR is achieved only in one-fourth of the patients treated using an MV-PCI strategy. and the residual SYNTAX score is independently associated with early and late mortality.     

Coronary artery disease in renal transplant recipients: an angiographic study

BackgroundCardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality in renal transplant recipients (RT). Coronary artery disease (CAD) in such patients is poorly studied.MethodsDuring 2012–2017, 50 patients with a renal graft (functioning for a minimum of 6 months) were subjected to coronary angiography in our institution. They were matched (for age, gender, diabetes, and indication for angiography) with 50 patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing chronic dialysis and 50 patients with normal renal function who were subjected to coronary angiography during the same period. The extent and severity of CAD were assessed by using the SYNTAX score.ResultsRT had a significantly longer duration of ESRD than patients on dialysis (17.5±7.1 vs. 8.5±8.7 years, p<0.01). Mean SYNTAX score was 13.3±12.0 in RT, 20.6±17.5 in patients on dialysis, and 9.4±9.2 in control patients (p<0.01). At least one significantly calcified lesion was present in 75.7% of RT recipients, 92.1% of patients on dialysis, and 15.8% of control patients (p<0.01). Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was successful in 93.8% of the attempted cases in RT, 75% of patients on chronic dialysis, and 100% of control patients (p=0.04). In the RT group, SYNTAX score significantly correlated with smoking (p=0.02) and the total vintage of ESRD (p=0.04).ConclusionsIn this angiographic study, CAD was less severe in RT than in patients on long-term dialysis despite a longer duration of ESRD. Coronary artery calcification was highly prevalent after renal transplantation. PCI in RT had a high rate of angiographic success.     

Rotablation in the Very Elderly – Safer than We Think?

Background/purposeCalcified coronary artery stenosis remains a challenge for Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI). Calcium modification is facilitated by rotablation and is used in 1–3% of cases. Data on rotablation in patients ≥80 years is limited and perceived to be high risk.We compared PCI with rotablation and outcomes between patients ≥80 years and those <80 years.Methods/materialsRetrospective analysis was performed of consecutive patients who underwent rotablation and PCI from 3 United Kingdom (UK) PCI Centres (2014–2017). In-hospital outcomes (composite of stroke, myocardial infarction, death, emergency coronary artery bypass graft surgery, vascular damage, coronary perforation, advanced AV-block, bleeding and renal impairment) and 30 day mortality risk score was compared between groups.Results213 patients were included. 33.3% (n = 71) were ≥80 years. Baseline and angiographic characteristics were similar in the two groups. Older patients were more likely to present with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) (≥80 years 53.5% vs. 33.8% in <80 years, p = 0.006) and had increased hospital stay (≥80 years 2.8 days (±6.0) vs. 1.3 days (±1.9) <80 years, p = 0.009). Majority of PCI were performed through radial access (≥80 years 91.5% vs. 88.0% <80 years, p = 0.43). In-hospital composite outcomes were similar between the groups (≥80 years 5.6% vs. 4.9% <80 years, p = 1.0). The 30-day mortality risk score demonstrated a higher average risk of 2.5% in ≥80 years versus under 1% risk in <80 years (p < 0.001).ConclusionThis study demonstrates that outcomes after rotablation in the very elderly are similar to younger patients despite being high risk and presenting with ACS.     

SYNTAX积分对冠心病经皮冠状动脉介入治疗效果的预测

目的 研究SYNTAX积分对复杂冠心病患者经皮冠状动脉(冠脉)介入治疗术(PCI)效果预测作用.方法 回顾性分析PCI置入雷帕霉素药物洗脱支架左主干/3支病变的冠心病患者共190例,计算SYNTAX积分及临床SYNTAX积分,随访其主要不良心脑血管事件(MACCE),包括死亡、非致命性心肌梗死、再次血运重建、脑血管事件发生率.分别评价SYNTAX积分及临床SYNTAX 积分对PCI效果的预测作用.结果 SYNTAX积分低、中及高分组的MACCE率分别为9.1％、16.2％及30.9％.临床SYNTAX评分低、中及高分组的MACCE率分别为14.9％、9.8％及30.6％,单因素及多因素分析结果均显示SYNTAX积分及临床SYNTAX积分是MACCE的独立预测因子.ROC 曲线分析结果SYNTAX积分AUC (0.667)大于临床SYNTAX积分AUC (0.636).结论 SYNTAX积分及临床SYNTAX积分对冠脉左主干/3支病变患者行PCI治疗后是否发生MACCE均有预测作用,在这一组人群中临床SYNTAX积分不优于SYNTAX积分.     

Risk Stratification Following Complex PCI: Clinical Versus Anatomical Risk Stratification Including “Post PCI Residual SYNTAX‐Score” as Quantification of Incomplete Revascularization

Background

EuroSCORE and completeness of revascularization predicts long‐term survival after multivessel PCI (MV‐PCI). The SYNTAX‐Score has also been proposed to predict clinical outcome. The prognostic impact of these scores to predict long‐term survival after PCI has not yet been compared.

Methods and Results

Long‐term survival was assessed in 740 patients undergoing MV‐PCI. We calculated EuroSCORE, SYNTAX‐Score, STS‐Score, the clinical SYNTAX‐Score (CSS), and the “post‐PCI residual SYNTAX‐Score.” Mean follow‐up time was 4.5 ± 2.5 years. 341 patients (46%) were treated for ACS (STEMI N = 191; NSTEMI N = 150). 113 patients (15%) underwent PCI of left main coronary artery. The EuroSCORE was significantly lower for stable patients compared to patients with ACS (stable 4.1 ± 4.5, NSTEMI 13.9 ± 13.3, STEMI 18.1 ± 18.7, p < 0.001). The differences in the SYNTAX‐Score were less obvious but even significant (stable 14.9 ± 8.6, NSTEMI 17.8 ± 9.9, STEMI 18.3 ± 9.0; p < 0.001). Patients in the highest tertiles of each risk score experienced a dramatically elevated mortality rate compared to the extremely low mortality rate in the lower tertiles (p log‐rank <0.001). This comparison remained significant for the EuroSCORE and STS‐Score but not for the SYNTAX‐Score, when analysis was restricted to stable patients. The multivariate Cox‐regression‐analysis confirmed the logistic EuroSCORE, EuroSCORE II, and the STS‐Score as independent predictors of long‐term mortality, whereas the SYNTAX‐Score (including residual form) and the CSS had no predictive value.

Conclusion

The EuroSCORE and the STS‐Score outperforms the SYNTAX‐Score and the CSS in predicting long‐term survival following MV‐PCI. In addition, the residual SYNTAX‐Score predicts long‐term survival not independently.

     

Síndromes coronárias agudas sem supradesnivelamento‐ST nos octogenários: aplicabilidade dos scores GRACE e CRUSADE

IntroductionAssessment of ischemic and bleeding risk is critical for the management of elderly patients with acute coronary syndromes, but it has been little studied.ObjectiveThis study aims to assess the applicability of the GRACE and CRUSADE scores in patients aged ≥80 years with non‐ST‐elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE‐ACS), and to identify the main predictors of in‐hospital mortality and major bleeding in this population.MethodsWe analyzed 544 patients aged ≥80 years with NSTE‐ACS included in the Portuguese Registry on Acute Coronary Syndromes and identified the predictors of in‐hospital mortality and major bleeding during hospitalization. Prediction models were created for these endpoints, then compared with the GRACE and CRUSADE scores, and their applicability to the study population was assessed.ResultsUse of coronary angiography was associated with reduced risk of in‐hospital mortality, without increasing risk of major bleeding (OR 0.2, 95% CI 0.006‐0.49, p=0.001). Major bleeding was an independent predictor of in‐hospital mortality (OR 10.9, 95% CI 2.36‐50.74, p=0.002), and was associated with comorbidities and pharmacological therapy during hospitalization. The GRACE score showed good diagnostic accuracy for in‐hospital mortality (AUC 0.75, 95% CI 0.63‐0.87, p<0.001), but the CRUSADE score had weak discriminatory capacity for major bleeding (AUC 0.51, 95% CI 0.30‐0.63, p=0.942), unlike our prediction model (AUC 0.68, 95% CI 0.52–0.84, p=0032).ConclusionsThe GRACE score is suitable for risk assessment in octogenarians with NSTE‐ACS, but the CRUSADE score is inadequate, and new scores are required to assess bleeding risk in this age‐group.     

Prognostic Value of QFR Measured Immediately After Successful Stent Implantation: The International Multicenter Prospective HAWKEYE Study

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to investigate the potential role of post–percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) quantitative flow ratio (QFR) measurements to predict clinical outcomes in patients with successful PCI.BackgroundThe prognostic value of QFR measured immediately after PCI has not been prospectively investigated.MethodsPatients undergoing complete revascularization with successful PCI and stent implantation were eligible for acquisition of projections for QFR computation. At the end of the procedure, 2 angiographic projections for each vessel treated with PCI were acquired. Computation of QFR was performed offline by an independent core laboratory. The primary outcome was the vessel-oriented composite endpoint, defined as vessel-related cardiovascular death, vessel-related myocardial infarction, and ischemia-driven target vessel revascularization.ResultsSeven hundred fifty-one vessels in 602 patients were analyzed. The median value of post-PCI QFR was 0.97 (interquartile range: 0.92 to 0.99). Lesion location in the left anterior descending coronary artery, baseline SYNTAX (Synergy Between PCI With Taxus and Cardiac Surgery) score, lesion length, and post-PCI diameter stenosis were found to be predictors of lower post-PCI QFR. Altogether, 77 events were detected in 53 treated vessels (7%). Post-PCI QFR was significantly lower in vessels with the vessel-oriented composite endpoint during follow-up, compared with those without it (0.88 [interquartile range: 0.81 to 0.99] vs. 0.97 [interquartile range: 0.93 to 0.99], respectively; p < 0.001). Receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis identified a post-PCI QFR best cutoff of ≤0.89 (area under the curve 0.77; 95% confidence interval: 0.74 to 0.80; p < 0.001). After correction for potential confounding factors, post-PCI QFR ≤0.89 was associated with a 3-fold increase in risk for the vessel-oriented composite endpoint (hazard ratio: 2.91; 95% confidence interval: 1.63 to 5.19; p < 0.001).ConclusionsLower values of QFR after complete and successful revascularization predict subsequent adverse events (Angio-Based Fractional Flow Reserve to Predict Adverse Events After Stent Implantation [HAWKEYE]; NCT02811796)     

Variability and Reproducibility of the SYNTAX Score for Triple-Vessel Disease

BackgroundThe SYNTAX score (SX) is an angiographic grading system to determine the burden and complexity of coronary artery disease (CAD) and to guide operators as to the appropriateness of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) vs coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). However, variability of the SX may exist since the assessment relies on individual clinicians to visually interpret lesion severity and characteristics. We therefore aimed to assess SX variability and reproducibility among interpreting physicians.MethodsFifty patient angiograms were randomly selected from a registry of patients with multi-vessel CAD (treated with PCI or CABG) completed at our institution during the years 2011–2018. Each angiogram was evaluated by 6 clinicians on 2 separate occasions (minimum 8 weeks between occasions) for a total of 600 SX. Our goal was to evaluate both inter- and intra- observer reliability of SX scores. Variation in both raw score as well as risk classification (low, intermediate or high SX) was observed. Inter- and intra-observer reliability were assessed using the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), Cohen's weighted Kappa, and Fleiss' Kappa.ResultsSYNTAX scores on both assessments and across all 6 cardiologists had a mean score of 25.3. On the first assessment, the ICC for the inter-observer reliability of SX scores was 0.61 (95% CI: 0.50, 0.73). Across the 6 observers, only 16% of angiograms were classified in the same risk classification by all observers. 34% of angiograms had less than a majority agreement (3 or less observers) on risk classification. The weighted Kappa for intra-observer reliability of risk classification scores ranged from 0.30 to 0.81. Across the 6 observers, the proportion of angiograms classified as the same risk classification between each observer's 1st and 2nd assessment ranged from 46% to 84%.ConclusionThis study shows a wide inter- and intra- user variability in calculating SX. Our data indicates a significant limitation in using the SX to guide revascularization strategies. Further studies are needed to determine more reliable ways to quantitate burden of CAD.     

Endothelial Nitric Oxide Level as a Predictor of Coronary Complexity in Patients With Unstable Angina Pectoris

BackgroundThe Synergy Between Percutaneous Coronary Intervention with Taxus and Cardiac Surgery (SYNTAX) score is an anatomic scoring system based on coronary angiography that quantifies lesion severity and complexity and predicts morbidity and mortality to guide decision making between coronary artery bypass graft surgery and percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with acute coronary syndrome. The present study aimed to compare nitric oxide levels with the SYNTAX score in terms of predicting coronary complexity and the treatment decision for unstable angina pectoris in the emergency department.MethodsThe study included 120 patients with unstable angina pectoris and 120 control group subjects. Nitric oxide levels were compared with the SYNTAX score and the treatment decision. The UAP group was divided into 2 subgroups, first based on SYNTAX score of ≤18, >18-27 or >27 and then on the treatment decision of coronary angiography, percutaneous coronary intervention, or coronary artery bypass graft surgery.ResultsThe mean nitric oxide levels in the unstable angina pectoris group were lower than in the control group (P < 0.001). Nitric oxide levels were negatively correlated with the SYNTAX score and the treatment decision (r = −0.227, P = 0.013; r = −0.498, P < 0.001, respectively). The nitric oxide levels were decreased with SYNTAX score >27 compared with >18-27 and ≤18 (P = 0.04-0.003, respectively). Nitric oxide levels were decreased in coronary artery bypass graft surgery subgroup compared with the coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention groups (P < 0.001-0.018 and P < 0.001, respectively).ConclusionsNitric oxide may be considered as a novel biomarker in the prediction of coronary complexity in patients with unstable angina pectoris.     

Correlation of NLRP3 with severity and prognosis of coronary atherosclerosis in acute coronary syndrome patients

We decided to assess the prognostic value of NLRP3 inflammasome level in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients and whether it was related to coronary atherosclerotic severity. Study population included one-hundred and twenty-three (123) subjects. Peripheral blood monocyte NLRP3 protein level was correlated with clinical presentation, angiographic characteristics and its scoring systems as well as GRACE and TIMI risk scores. Follow-up for major adverse cardiac events (MACE) was carried out at 180 days. Peripheral blood monocyte NLRP3 was found to be elevated in ACS patients (P < 0.05) and showed positive correlation with GRACE score (r = 0.619), TIMI score (r = 0.580), SYNTAX score (r = 0.550), Clinical SYNTAX score (r = 0.564) and Gensini score (r = 0.516). NLRP3 was also increased with increasing number of vessels, the number of lesions present and the presence bifurcation lesions (P < 0.05). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed NLRP3 to be an independent predictor of MACE (P = 0.043). Kaplan–Meier analysis and receiver operating characteristic curves for NLRP3 showed good predictive value for MACE. There is a positive correlation of NLRP3 level with severity of coronary atherosclerosis. NLRP3 level is a promising prognostic utility and is efficient in event prediction for MACE.     

纤维蛋白原与急性冠脉综合征患者冠状动脉病变严重程度的关系研究

背景急性冠脉综合征(ACS)患者纤维蛋白原升高与患者预后不良有关,但其对ACS患者冠状动脉病变严重程度的影响尚不清楚。目的探讨纤维蛋白原与ACS患者冠状动脉病变严重程度的关系。方法选取2019年1—5月首都医科大学附属北京天坛医院重症监护病房收治的ACS患者108例,根据SYNTAX评分分为轻度病变组(SYNTAX评分<23分,n=74)和中重度病变组(SYNTAX评分≥23分,n=34)。比较两组患者一般资料〔包括性别、年龄、体质指数(BMI)、高血压发生情况、糖尿病发生情况、脑血管疾病发生情况、冠心病病史、吸烟史〕、实验室检查指标〔包括脑钠肽(BNP)、总胆固醇、粒细胞/淋巴细胞比值、平均血小板体积、纤维蛋白原、同型半胱氨酸、估算的肾小球滤过率〕;纤维蛋白原与ACS患者SYNTAX评分的相关性分析采用Pearson相关分析;ACS患者冠状动脉病变严重程度的影响因素采用多因素Logistic回归分析。结果(1)两组患者男性比例、年龄、BNP、纤维蛋白原比较,差异有统计学意义(P<0.05);两组患者BMI、高血压发生率、糖尿病发生率、脑血管疾病发生率、有冠心病病史及吸烟史者所占比例、总胆固醇、粒细胞/淋巴细胞比值、平均血小板体积、同型半胱氨酸、估算的肾小球滤过率比较,差异无统计学意义(P>0.05)。(2)Pearson相关分析结果显示,纤维蛋白原与ACS患者SYNTAX评分与呈正相关(r=0.348,P<0.05)。(3)多因素Logistic回归分析结果显示,年龄〔OR=1.119,95%CI(1.021,1.226)〕、纤维蛋白原〔OR=3.458,95%CI(1.038,11.523)〕是ACS患者冠状动脉病变严重程度的影响因素(P<0.05)。结论纤维蛋白原与ACS患者冠状动脉病变程度呈正相关,是ACS患者冠状动脉病变严重程度的独立影响因素。