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1.
Optical coherence tomography-guided percutaneous coronary intervention: a review of current clinical applications.
Kurogi, K, Ishii, M, Yamamoto, N, Yamanaga, K, Tsujita, K
Cardiovascular intervention and therapeutics. 2021;(2):169-177
Abstract
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an emerging high-resolution intravascular imaging modality that can provide physicians with critical information, thereby enabling precise characterization of plaque morphology and luminal geometry and facilitating pre-intervention lesion assessment. As OCT has a higher sensitivity for lipid-rich plaque characterization than intravascular ultrasound, vulnerable plaque detection by OCT has thus been investigated. By evaluating both the calcium thickness and arc, OCT can be the ideal method for determining both the indication and endpoint of rotational atherectomy for calcified lesions prior to stent implantation. OCT has become applicable for the optimization of stent implantation with immediate and semi-automatic quantification of stent apposition and expansion to achieve potentially better clinical outcomes. In bifurcation lesions, OCT allows the visualization of the stent-link location overhanging the side-branch ostium and the guidewire recrossing point prior to the final kissing balloon inflation through three-dimensional reconstructed OCT images, providing us with deep insights into the mechanical optimization of stent struts. Furthermore, recent studies have reported several OCT-derived predictors of adverse clinical events. Important limitations of OCT, including the excessive contrast volume needed and observation of aorto-ostial lesions, may partially be overcome through the use of low-molecular-weight dextran and a guide extension catheter. The clinical applications of OCT have been expanding, and evidence on its clinical utility has been accumulating.
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2.
Practical utilization of cardiac computed tomography for the success in complex coronary intervention.
Sadamatsu, K, Okutsu, M, Sumitsuji, S, Kawasaki, T, Nakamura, S, Fukumoto, Y, Tsujita, K, Sonoda, S, Kobayashi, Y, Ikari, Y
Cardiovascular intervention and therapeutics. 2021;(2):178-189
Abstract
Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for complex lesions is still technically demanding and is associated with less favorable procedural parameters such as lower success rate, longer procedural time, higher contrast volume and unexpected complications. Because the conventional angiographic analysis is limited by the inability to visualize the plaque information and the occluded segment, cardiac computed tomography has evolved as an adjunct to invasive angiography to better characterize coronary lesions to improve success rates of PCI. Adding to routine image reconstructions by coronary computed tomography angiography, the thin-slab maximum intensity projection method, which is a handy reconstruction technique on an ordinary workstation, could provide easy-to-understand images to reveal the anatomical characteristics and the lumen and plaque information simultaneously, and then assist to build an in-depth strategy for PCI. Especially in the treatment of chronic total occlusion lesion, these informations have big advantages in the visualization of the morphologies of entry and exit, the occluded segment and the distribution of calcium compared to invasive coronary angiography. Despite of the additional radiation exposure, contrast use and cost for cardiac computed tomography, the precise analysis of lesion characteristics would consequently improve the procedural success and prevent the complication in complex PCI.
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3.
Double or Triple Antithrombotic Treatment in Atrial Fibrillation Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention.
Benetou, DR, Varlamos, C, Mpahara, A, Alexopoulos, D
American journal of cardiovascular drugs : drugs, devices, and other interventions. 2021;(1):11-20
Abstract
Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) have traditionally received triple antithrombotic therapy (TAT) consisting of aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor plus an oral anticoagulant (OAC) to reduce atherothrombotic events, even though this strategy is associated with a high risk of severe bleeding. Recent trials have indicated that dual antithrombotic therapy (DAT), consisting of a P2Y12 inhibitor plus an OAC, may be superior to TAT in terms of bleeding risk; however, the trade-off regarding ischemic complications may be questionable. Patients who have had a myocardial infarction (MI) before undergoing PCI warrant special consideration because of the accompanying high ischemic risk, including stent thrombosis, which might be exacerbated by an aspirin-free strategy such as DAT. In particular, in the acute phase of ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI), the highly prothrombotic milieu may necessitate initial TAT, though durations may vary, making a tailored antithrombotic regimen for this high-risk subset of patients a fairly challenging and difficult scenario for clinicians. Since patients with MI, especially STEMI, are underrepresented in randomized trials, data regarding the optimal antithrombotic treatment in such patients are sparse. This review aims to analyze the outcomes of different antithrombotic regimens in patients with MI and AF undergoing PCI, define the role of DAT versus TAT regarding safety and efficacy outcomes, and address controversial issues and future perspectives.
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4.
Antithrombotic Therapy in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Treated With Oral Anticoagulation Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A North American Perspective: 2021 Update.
Angiolillo, DJ, Bhatt, DL, Cannon, CP, Eikelboom, JW, Gibson, CM, Goodman, SG, Granger, CB, Holmes, DR, Lopes, RD, Mehran, R, et al
Circulation. 2021;(6):583-596
Abstract
A growing number of patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stent implantation also have atrial fibrillation. This poses challenges for their optimal antithrombotic management because patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing PCI require oral anticoagulation for the prevention of cardiac thromboembolism and dual antiplatelet therapy for the prevention of coronary thrombotic complications. The combination of oral anticoagulation and dual antiplatelet therapy substantially increases the risk of bleeding. Over the last decade, a series of North American Consensus Statements on the Management of Antithrombotic Therapy in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention have been reported. Since the last update in 2018, several pivotal clinical trials in the field have been published. This document provides a focused updated of the 2018 recommendations. The group recommends that in patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing PCI, a non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant is the oral anticoagulation of choice. Dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor should be given to all patients during the peri-PCI period (during inpatient stay, until time of discharge, up to 1 week after PCI, at the discretion of the treating physician), after which the default strategy is to stop aspirin and continue treatment with a P2Y12 inhibitor, preferably clopidogrel, in combination with a non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant (ie, double therapy). In patients at increased thrombotic risk who have an acceptable risk of bleeding, it is reasonable to continue aspirin (ie, triple therapy) for up to 1 month. Double therapy should be given for 6 to 12 months with the actual duration depending on the ischemic and bleeding risk profile of the patient, after which patients should discontinue antiplatelet therapy and receive oral anticoagulation alone.
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5.
[Short dual antiplatelet therapy: how, when and why].
Ditali, V, Carrozzi, C, Leonardi, S
Giornale italiano di cardiologia (2006). 2020;(2 Suppl 1):14S-25S
Abstract
Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is a cornerstone of antithrombotic treatment in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. The optimal duration of DAPT, i.e. the minimal period needed to ensure the best safety and efficacy, to prevent ischemic complications, including stent thrombosis, has been extensively explored in multiple randomized controlled trials over the last years. Accumulating evidence is supporting a clinical approach where there is a prevailing role of the risk of bleeding: in patients at high bleeding risk (HBR) it is generally advisable to reduce the duration of DAPT irrespective of their risk of thrombosis. In addition, among HBR patients, (i) new recommendations prefer direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) over vitamin K antagonists in DOAC-eligible patients with atrial fibrillation and coronary artery disease; (ii) measures to minimize bleedings while on DAPT should be pursued, including de-escalation of P2Y12 receptor inhibitor therapy; and (iii) new studies are testing reversal strategies for short DAPT regimens, with early discontinuation of aspirin. In the present review, we discuss the rationale and decision-making considerations to reduce safely DAPT duration in HBR patients.
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6.
Device Based Approaches to the Prevention of Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury.
Nanayakkara, S, Kaye, DM
Interventional cardiology clinics. 2020;(3):395-401
Abstract
Contrast-induced acute kidney injury is not uncommon after percutaneous coronary intervention, particularly in high-risk patients. Pharmacologic approaches have not demonstrated significant benefit, and numerous device-based approaches exist targeting a variety of pathways. In this review, we summarize the most recent interventions and the evidence behind them.
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7.
Weighing Coronary Revascularization Options in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
Godoy, LC, Tavares, CAM, Farkouh, ME
Canadian journal of diabetes. 2020;(1):78-85
Abstract
Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) are at increased risk for developing coronary artery disease. Choosing the optimal revascularization strategy, such as coronary artery bypass grafting or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), may be difficult in this population. A large body of evidence suggests that, for patients with DM and stable multivessel ischemic heart disease, coronary artery bypass grafting is usually superior to PCI, leading to lower rates of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction and repeat revascularization in the long term. In patients with less complex coronary anatomy (2- or single-vessel disease, especially without involvement of the proximal left anterior descendent artery), PCI may be a viable option. Because these anatomic patterns are less frequent in patients with DM, there is less evidence to guide revascularization in these cases. Patients with DM and left main disease and those in the acute coronary syndrome setting are also underrepresented in randomized trials, and the best revascularization strategy for these patients is not clear. Once the revascularization procedure is performed, patients should be kept engaged in controlling the risk factors for progression of cardiovascular disease. Avoidance of smoking, control of cholesterol, blood pressure and glycemic levels; regular practice of physical activity of at least moderate intensity; and a balanced diet are of key importance in the post-revascularization period. In this study, we review the current literature in the management of patients with DM and coronary artery disease undergoing a revascularization procedure.
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8.
Implications of Kidney Disease in the Cardiac Patient.
Nicolas, J, Claessen, B, Mehran, R
Interventional cardiology clinics. 2020;(3):265-278
Abstract
Cardiovascular and renal diseases share common pathophysiological grounds, risk factors, and therapies. The 2 entities are closely interlinked and often coexist. The prevalence of kidney disease among cardiac patients is increasing. Patients have an atypical clinical presentation and variable disease manifestation versus the general population. Renal impairment limits therapeutic options and worsens prognosis. Meticulous treatment and close monitoring are required to ensure safety and avoid deterioration of kidney and heart functions. This review highlights recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac pathologies, including coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, and heart failure, in patients with decreased renal function.
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9.
Management of Angina Post Percutaneous Coronary Intervention.
Cruz Rodriguez, JB, Kar, S
Current cardiology reports. 2020;(2):7
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Our review discusses the management of post percutaneous coronary intervention angina (PPCIA) which negatively impacts 20-40% of patients and imposes a high burden on the healthcare system. RECENT FINDINGS Mechanisms of PPCIA include microvascular dysfunction, distal coronary vasospasm or disease, microembolization, myocardial bridge, coronary artery disease (CAD) progression, and rarely stent thrombosis or in-stent restenosis. Nitrates, beta blockers (BB), calcium channel blockers, and ranolazine are the common medical management options. Only BB showed 1-year mortality benefit following myocardial infarction. Stress echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance are the best to detect CAD vs. microvascular dysfunction. Invasively, vasoprovocative testing and fractional flow reserve provide useful prognostic information. If the ischemia burden is ≤10%, conservative management should be considered based upon the individual patient scenario. The optimal management of PPCIA remains unclear and further research is necessary. Multiple treatment options exist, which should be implemented in an individualized fashion.
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10.
Intracoronary Lithotripsy for the Treatment of Calcified Plaque.
Yeoh, J, Hill, J
Interventional cardiology clinics. 2019;(4):411-424
Abstract
Intravascular lithotripsy facilitates percutaneous coronary intervention of lesions with severe calcification by using high-pressure ultrasonic energy. It is the newest adjunctive tool for calcium modification and is showing promise as its users gather more experience and it becomes readily available worldwide. This article reviews intravascular lithotripsy technology, the evidence in the literature, and the advantages and disadvantages compared with other forms of calcium modification, and discusses its role in specific subsets of coronary lesions. It concludes with a discussion about the future direction of research involving this new technology as its role within percutaneous cardiac procedures becomes more defined.