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Objectives To compare the radial versus femoral approach using Angio-Seal for the incidence of access site complications among non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome patients undergoing invasive strategy. Background Arterial access is a major site of complications after invasive coronary procedures. Vascular closure devices provide more comfort to patients decreasing time to hemostasis and need for bed rest. However, the inconsistency of data proving their safety limits their routine adoption as a strategy to prevent vascular complications. Methods Single-center non-inferiority trial where 240 patients were randomized to radial or femoral access using Angio-Seal. The primary objective was the occurrence of complications at the arterial puncture site until 30 days after the procedure. Results There were no baseline clinical differences between groups, except for a greater prevalence of female patients in the radial group (33.3 vs. 20.0%, P = 0.020). Hemostasis was achieved in the entire radial group with the use of TR Band and in 95% of the procedures in the femoral group with Angio-Seal (P = 0.029). Except for a higher incidence of asymptomatic arterial occlusion in the radial group, there were no differences among the other analyzed outcomes. According to the noninferiority test, the use of Angio-Seal was noninferior to the radial approach, considering the margin of 15% (12.5 vs. 13.3%, difference −0.83%, 95% CI −9.31 − 7.65, P for noninferiority

Background The transition from ticagrelor to clopidogrel is not based on pharmacodynamic or clinical studies, but it is a common practice. The aim of the present study was to test, in an exploratory way, the transition to two different doses of clopidogrel at the time of hospital discharge in patients diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome submitted to percutaneous coronary intervention who were initially treated with ticagrelor. Methods Patients previously treated with ticagrelor were randomized to receive a loading dose of 300 mg clopidogrel at hospital discharge, or 75 mg without the loading dose. The primary endpoint was the incidence of cardiovascular adverse events or bleeding at 30 days. Results Of 348 selected patients, 132 were enrolled and completed the study. The incidence of ischemic and hemorrhagic events at 30 days was similar between the groups, resulting in a rate of cardiac and cerebrovascular events of 6.1% vs. 9.1% (RR: 0.787; 95% CI: 0.361-1.715; p = 0.74). Conclusions The transition to clopidogrel with a dose of 75 mg at discharge, without a loading dose, appears to be a possible strategy. Studies with greater statistical power are needed to confirm these findings.

Background The knowledge of risk factors related to vascular access complications in patients undergoing early invasive strategy allows the adoption of methods to minimize them. Methods We performed a subanalysis of the ARISE study, aiming to identify predictors of vascular complications in patients randomized to the radial or femoral techniques with the use of vascular closure device (VCD). Results A total of 240 patients with a mean age of 63.0 ± 10.7 years were included, with 30.8% of diabetics. Except for a higher prevalence of women in the radial group, there were no clinical differences between the groups. Percutaneous coronary intervention was performed in 86.7% of the cases. The rate of vascular complications after 30 days was 13.3% in the radial group, due to hematoma > 5 cm (6.7%) and asymptomatic artery occlusion (5.8%), and 12.5% in femoral group, due to hematoma > 5 cm, without significant difference. The following were identified as risk factors for vascular access complications: body mass index (BMI), previous stroke, longer duration of the procedure, and VCD failure. At the stratified analysis, female gender and high or very high-risk CRUSADE score were predictors of complications only for the femoral group. In the multivariate model, the factors that remained significant were BMI and VCD failure. Conclusions The radial and femoral techniques, with the use of VCD, shared variables that were predictors of complications. Risk factors, such as female gender and high-risk CRUSADE score, were attenuated by the use of the radial technique.

ResumoIntroduçãoProcedimentos coronários invasivos são comuns em pacientes com revascularização miocárdica cirúrgica prévia. Dados acerca do real papel e das possíveis limitações do acesso radial nesse subgrupo de pacientes são infrequentes. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a factibilidade e a segurança do acesso radial em pacientes revascularizados cirurgicamente e que foram submetidos a procedimentos coronários invasivos diagnósticos ou terapêuticos subsequentes, comparando‐o ao acesso femoral.MétodosEntre maio de 2008 e novembro de 2014, foram analisados 959 procedimentos, sendo 539 realizados pelo acesso radial e 420 pelo femoral. Todos os operadores estavam familiarizados com ambos os acessos vasculares, cabendo a eles a decisão final sobre a via a ser utilizada.ResultadosA prevalência de insucesso foi de 6,1% vs. 0,5% (p < 0,0001), favorecendo a técnica femoral. As taxas de eventos cardíacos adversos graves (0,4% vs. 0,7%) e de complicações vasculares (1,5% vs. 1,9%) foram baixas, sem diferença entre os grupos. A opção pela técnica radial implicou em maior tempo de f luoroscopia e necessidade de cruzamento entre vias de acesso, principalmente em procedimentos diagnósticos.ConclusõesO acesso radial representou uma opção segura e eficaz para a realização de procedimentos coronários invasivos em pacientes cirurgicamente revascularizados, notadamente para os procedimentos terapêuticos.AbstractBackgroundInvasive coronary procedures are common in patients with previous coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Data on the actual role and possible limitations of the radial approach in this subgroup of patients are sparse. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of radial access in patients surgically revascularized and who underwent subsequent invasive diagnostic or therapeutic coronary procedures, comparing it to the femoral access.MethodsBetween May 2008 and November 2014, 959 procedures were included; 539 performed by radial access and 420 by femoral access. All operators were familiar with both vascular accesses, and the final decision on the route to be used was left to the operators discretion.ResultsThe failure rate was 6.1% vs. 0.5% (p < 0.0001), favoring the femoral approach. Major adverse cardiac events (0.4% vs. 0.7%) and vascular complications (1.5% vs. 1.9%) rates were low, with no difference between groups. The choice of the radial approach resulted in greater fluoroscopy time and crossover rate between access routes, especially in diagnostic procedures.ConclusionsThe radial approach was a safe and effective option for invasive coronary procedures in postcoronary artery bypass graft patients, especially for therapeutic procedures.

Introdução: O acesso radial, além de propiciar maior conforto e comodidade, associa-se a menores taxas de complicações vasculares e sangramento grave, com potencial impacto na morbimortalidade. Assim, é desejável a adoção de estratégias que reduzam o risco de oclusão arterial após procedimentos invasivos, possibilitando sua reutilização. Métodos: Registro prospectivo, controlado, que avaliou o impacto da utilização rotineira de pulseira compressora seletiva em pacientes com síndrome coronariana aguda sem supradesnivelamento do ST submetidos à estratificação invasiva pelo acesso radial. A patência arterial foi avaliada por meio do teste de Barbeau, na alta hospitalar e aos 30 dias de evolução. Resultados: Foram avaliados 59 pacientes, dos quais 83% realizaram intervenção coronária percutânea ad hoc. A média de idades foi de 64 ± 12,2 anos, 66,1% eram do sexo masculino e 28,8% portadores de diabetes mellitus. O acesso radial direito foi utilizado em 98,3% das intervenções, o número de cateteres foi 2,4 ± 0,6, com diâmetro de 6 F em todos os casos, e a duração dos procedimentos foi de 32,4 ± 12,7 minutos. Espasmo foi reportado em 10,2%, hematoma > 5 cm em 3,4% e oclusão da artéria radial após o procedimento e aos 30 dias em 6,8 e 3,4% dos casos, respectivamente. Conclusões: A pulseira compressora TR Band® é dispositivo seguro e eficaz na obtenção de taxas reduzidas de oclusão radial, após procedimento coronário invasivo. Background: In addition to providing greater comfort and convenience for the patient, the radial approach is associated to lower rates of vascular complications and major bleeding, with potential impact on morbidity and mortality. Thus, the adoption of strategies that reduce the risk of arterial occlusion after invasive procedures, enabling it to be reused, is desirable. Methods: Controlled prospective registry evaluating the impact of routine adoption of a selective radial compression device in patients with acute coronary syndrome without ST-segment elevation undergoing early invasive stratification through the radial access. Arterial patency was assessed by the Barbeau test at hospital discharge and at the 30-day follow-up. Results: Fifty-nine patients were evaluated, of which 83% underwent ad hoc percutaneous coronary intervention. Mean age was 64 ± 12.2, 66.1% were male and 28.8% had diabetes mellitus. The right radial access was used in 98.3% of cases, the number of catheters was 2.4 ± 0.6, with a diameter of 6 F in all cases, and the duration of the procedure was 32.4 ± 12.7 minutes. Spasm was reported in 10.2% of cases, hematoma > 5 cm in 3.4% and occlusion of the radial artery after the procedure and at 30 days in 6.8% and 3.4% of the cases, respectively. Conclusions: The TR Band® radial compression device is safe and effective in obtaining reduced rates of radial artery occlusion after invasive coronary procedures.

Background ST-segment resolution is an important predictor of infarct-related artery patency and effective microcirculatory perfusion. The aim of this study was to compare patients with and without ST-segment elevation resolution and identify variables that are associated with failure of ST-segment resolution. Methods Between March 2012 and July 2013, 61 patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and were included in a prospective registry. To compare the groups with and without ST-segment resolution, the chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test were used for qualitative variables and Student’s t test or Mann-Whitney’s test for quantitative variables. Simple and multiple logistic regression models were used to identify variables associated with failure of ST-segment resolution. Results The group of patients without ST-segment resolution had higher heart rate, higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus , chronic renal failure and a trend towards longer ischemia time. There was a higher mortality rate in patients who did not achieve ST-segment elevation resolution. In the univariate analysis, heart rate, diabetes mellitus , chronic renal failure and ischemia time were associated with increased odds of not obtaining ST-segment resolution, losing significance in the multivariate model. Conclusions Failure of ST-segment resolution is observed in up to one-third of patients undergoing primary PCI and requires new pharmacologic strategies or interventions to minimize it.

BackgroundDelays resulting from the transfer to perform primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) have a negative impact on the benefits of the procedure.MethodsProspective registry aimed at comparing the results of primary PCI in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) admitted or transferred to an interventional cath lab equipped hospital.ResultsBetween February 2009 and December 2011, 319 patients were included in the study with mean age of 59.8±12 years, 28.5% were female and 22.3% were diabetics. Patients transferred for primary PCI (n=201) had longer door-to-balloon time (86.4±26.6min vs 69±22.6min; P

INTRODUÇÃO: Considerado um fármaco com adequado perfil de eficácia e segurança no tratamento da síndrome coronária aguda sem supradesnivelamento do segmento ST, o fondaparinux, utilizado de forma isolada, associa-se a maior ocorrência de complicações trombóticas durante a realização de procedimentos coronários invasivos, requerendo a adição de agente com atividade anti-IIa. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a eficácia e a segurança da intervenção coronária percutânea (ICP) em pacientes admitidos com diagnóstico de síndrome coronária aguda sem supradesnivelamento do segmento ST, previamente tratados com fondaparinux. MÉTODOS: Registro prospectivo, controlado, envolvendo 127 pacientes consecutivos submetidos a estratificação invasiva precoce na vigência de fondaparinux, com suplementação de heparina não-fracionada intravenosa na dose de 85 U/kg no momento da ICP. RESULTADOS: A taxa do desfecho primário, composto por morte, infarto agudo do miocárdio, acidente vascular encefálico, trombose de stent ou revascularização miocárdica de urgência, foi de 3,2%. A incidência acumulada de sangramento grave e complicações vasculares foi de 3,2%. Não houve casos de trombose do cateter-guia ou oclusão abrupta do vaso. CONCLUSÕES: A ICP em pacientes com síndrome coronária aguda em uso de fondaparinux associa-se a baixas taxas de eventos cardiovasculares adversos isquêmicos e de complicações hemorrágicas graves. A suplementação com heparina não-fracionada durante o procedimento invasivo elimina o risco de trombose do cateter. BACKGROUND: Fondaparinux is considered an agent with a well-established safety and efficacy profile in the treatment of non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndromes, but when used alone, is associated to a higher incidence of thrombotic complications during invasive coronary procedures, requiring the supplementation of an anti-IIa agent. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndromes previously treated with fondaparinux. METHODS: Prospective, controlled registry enrolling 127 consecutive patients submitted to an early invasive stratification during treatment with fondaparinux, with supplementation of intravenous unfractionated heparin at a dose of 85 U/kg at the time of PCI. RESULTS: The rate of the composite primary endpoint including death, acute myocardial infarction, stroke, stent thrombosis or emergency myocardial revascularization was 3.2%. The cumulative incidence of major bleeding and vascular complications was 3.2%. There were no cases of guide-catheter thrombosis or abrupt vessel closure. CONCLUSIONS: PCI in patients with acute coronary syndromes receiving fondaparinux is associated with a low rate of major adverse cardiovascular ischemic events and severe hemorrhagic complications. Supplementation of unfractionated heparin during the invasive procedures eliminates the risk of catheter-related thrombosis.

Background The radial approach has demonstrated superior benefits to the femoral approach in reducing vascular complications and bleeding events associated to percutaneous coronary interventions. However, because this is a more complex procedure, it requires a learning curve to get all of the advantages of the technique. The aim of this study was to present the characteristics of the procedures of a center that prioritizes the use of radial approach. Methods Prospective registry of patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using the radial or ulnar access where angiographic success, technical failure, ischemic adverse events and severe bleeding rates were assessed. A pre-specified analysis of the group undergoing PCI for the right coronary artery was performed, comparing patients using Judkins right catheter (JR) or Amplatz catheters. Results Between April 2010 and May 2012, 1,117 patients underwent PCI, 1,040 (93.1%) by the radial approach and 50 (4.5%) by the ulnar approach. Sedation was performed in 58.5% of the patients, the crossover rate was 1.2%, and angiographic success was 96.2%. Extra backup catheters were used in 99.1% of PCIs for the left coronary artery, JR in 69.4% and Amplatz in 27.1% of the PCIs for the right coronary artery. When the JR and Amplatz were compared, longer procedure duration, longer fluoroscopy time, larger number of catheters, more frequent lesion predilation and higher number of implanted stents were observed in the group using Amplatz catheters as well as lower angiographic success rates. Conclusions The use of radial access in PCI showed a high success rate and a low rate of major cardiac events and bleeding complications. The liberal use of sedation and 6 F introducer sheaths, associated to catheters with stronger backup force, are characteristics of our center, which prioritizes the use of the radial approach.

Background The occurrence of major bleeding after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is associated to higher morbidity and mortality, and advanced age is one of its main predictors. The aim of this analysis was to evaluate the impact of the use of the transradial approach in the incidence of bleeding complications in elderly patients undergoing PCI. Methods Consecutive and controlled registry including patients over 60 years of age undergoing PCI by transradial approach. Angiographic procedure success, technical failure, and the incidence of ischemic adverse events and major bleeding were evaluated. Results Between May 2008 and December 2010, 707 elderly patients underwent PCI, of whom 635 (89.8%) used the transradial approach. Mean age was 69.9 ± 7.2 years, 11.5% were > 80 years of age, 39.7% were female and 30.9% had diabetes mellitus. Acute ischemic syndrome accounted for 72% of clinical indications. The angiographic success rate was 96.8% with a crossover rate of 2.8%. The in-hospital mortality rate was 2.4%, myocardial infarction occurred in 0.9%, stroke in 0.3% and stent thrombosis in 0.9%. Hematomas were reported in 1.6% of procedures, with a major bleeding rate of 0.8%. Conclusions In elderly patients undergoing PCI, representing the real-world practice and at a high risk for bleeding, the use of the transradial approach was associated with a low major bleeding rate.

Primary percutaneous coronary intervention is the preferred reperfusion therapy for ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction patients within 12 hours of symptom-onset. Routine stent implantation during the procedure significantly reduces the rate of target vessel revascularization, although restenosis still represents a current limitation of the technique. Drug-eluting stents were developed to treat and prevent coronary restenosis. Randomized trials, meta-analysis, and registries proved their efficacy and safety in different clinical situations, including acute myocardial infarction. However, the increased risk of late stent thrombosis associated with drug-eluting stents during primary percutaneous coronary interventions encourages a careful analysis to identify which patients most benefit from them, as well as those where a prolonged dual antiplatelet therapy does not represent a limiting factor. (J Interven Cardiol 2011;24:416–423)

O acesso transradial é seguro e eficaz na realização de procedimentos coronários. Porém, seu uso pode estar comprometido em casos de variações anatômicas da artéria radial, espasmo e negatividade do teste de Allen. O acesso transulnar surge como uma alternativa viável em substituição à abordagem transradial. Reportamos o caso de um paciente submetido à angioplastia primária pela via ulnar com sucesso, sem complicações isquêmicas da mão, a despeito de oclusão prévia da artéria radial correspondente.

Introdução: Os mecanismos e preditores de insucesso da técnica radial em centros que priorizam essa via não estão bem caracterizados, sendo tal caracterização o objetivo principal desta análise. Métodos: Foram incluídos 6.808 pacientes consecutivos submetidos a procedimentos coronários invasivos pelo acesso radial por operadores com taxa anual de utilização da via superior a 90%. Para a identificação dos fatores associados ao insucesso da técnica, foram ajustados modelos de regressão logística simples e múltipla. Resultados: A taxa de insucesso da técnica radial foi de 1,7%. Complicações vasculares ocorreram em 5% da amostra, com predomínio de oclusão arterial assintomática e hematomas subcutâneos. Os preditores de insucesso foram sexo feminino (OR = 1,87; IC 95% 1,29-2,71; p = 0,01), idade > 70 anos (OR = 1,78; IC 95% 1,06-2,98; p = 0,03) e presença de insuficiência arterial periférica crônica (OR = 5,71; IC 95% 2,40-13,54; p < 0,01). Conclusões: Em um centro caracterizado por alto volume de procedimentos realizados pelo acesso radial, a taxa de insucesso foi < 2%, sendo as variáveis associadas à falência da técnica sexo feminino, idade avançada e insuficiência arterial periférica. Background: The mechanisms and predictors of failure of the transradial approach in centers dedicated to this technique are not well characterized and were the main objective of this analysis. Methods: 6,808 consecutive patients undergoing transradial coronary procedures by operators with utilization rate greater than 90% were included. Simple and multiple logistic regression models were used to identify the predictors of failed transradial approach. Results Transradial failure rate was 1.7%. Vascular complications were observed in 5% of the sample, with a prevalence of asymptomatic arterial occlusion and subcutaneous hematomas. Predictors of failure were female gender (OR = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.29-2.71; p = 0.01), age > 70 years (OR = 1.78; 95% CI: 1.06-2.98; p = 0.03) and presence of chronic peripheral arterial disease (OR = 5.71; 95% CI: 2.40-13.54; p < 0.01). Conclusions In a high-volume radial center, the failure rate was < 2% and variables associated with failure of the technique were female gender, advanced age and peripheral arterial disease.

Introdução: Publicações pioneiras desencorajam o uso do acesso ulnar após falha na tentativa de obtenção do acesso radial ipsilateral. Métodos: Registro prospectivo de eficácia e segurança comparando a ocorrência de sangramento e complicações vasculares entre casos com intenção inicial de utilizar o acesso ulnar e aqueles cujo emprego desse acesso se deu após falha na canulação da artéria radial ipsilateral. Resultados: Entre maio de 2007 e dezembro de 2013, foram realizados 11.825 procedimentos coronários invasivos em um único centro, 473 (4%) deles pelo acesso ulnar. Em 65 casos, a canulação da artéria ulnar foi precedida por falha na obtenção do acesso radial ipsilateral. A taxa de sucesso da técnica foi superior a 98%, sendo baixo o número de complicações, em sua maioria decorrentes de hematomas superficiais, sem diferença entre os grupos. Não houve casos de sangramento grave relacionado a via de acesso, pseudoaneurisma, fístula arteriovenosa ou lesão do nervo ulnar adjacente. Conclusões: O acesso ulnar representa uma alternativa segura e eficaz para a realização de procedimentos coronários invasivos selecionados, a despeito de tentativa prévia de obtenção do acesso radial ipsilateral. Background: Pioneering publications discourage the use of ulnar access after failed attempt to obtain ipsilateral radial access. Methods: Prospective efficacy and safety registry comparing the incidence of bleeding and vascular complications in patients with an initial intention to use ulnar access and those who used this access after a failed attempt to cannulate the ipsilateral radial artery. Results: Between May 2007 and December 2013, 11,825 invasive coronary procedures were performed at a single center, 473 (4%) of them by ulnar access. In 65 cases, the ulnar artery cannulation was preceded by a failed attempt to obtain the ipsilateral radial access. The technical success rate was higher than 98%, with low complication rates, mostly due to superficial hematomas, and no differences between groups. There were no cases of major bleeding related to the access site, pseudoaneurysm, arteriovenous fistula or injury to the adjacent ulnar nerve. Conclusions: The ulnar access is a safe and effective alternative to perform selected invasive coronary procedures, despite previous attempts to obtain the ipsilateral radial access.

Background Arterial access is a major site of bleeding complications after invasive coronary procedures. Among strategies to decrease vascular complications, the radial approach is an established one. Vascular closure devices provide more comfort to patients and decrease hemostasis and need for bed rest. However, the inconsistency of data proving their safety limits their routine adoption as a strategy to prevent vascular complications, requiring evidence through adequately designed randomized trials. The aim of this study is to compare the radial versus femoral approach using a vascular closure device for the incidence of arterial puncture site vascular complications among non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome patients submitted to an early invasive strategy. Methods ARISE is a national, multicenter, non-inferiority randomized clinical trial. Two hundred patients with non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome will be randomized to either radial or femoral access using a vascular closure device. The primary outcome is the occurrence of vascular complications at an arterial puncture site 30 days after the procedure, including major bleeding, retroperitoneal hematoma, compartment syndrome, hematoma ≥ 5 cm, pseudoaneurysm, arterio-venous fistula, infection, limb ischemia, arterial occlusion, adjacent nerve injury or the need for vascular surgical repair. Results Enrollment was initiated in September 2012, and until October 2013 91 patients were included. The inclusion phase is expected to last until the second half of 2014. Conclusions The ARISE trial will help define the role of a vascular closure device as a bleeding avoidance strategy in patients with NSTEACS. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01653587

INTRODUÇÃO: A resolução do segmento ST é um importante preditor de patência da artéria relacionada ao infarto e de perfusão efetiva da microcirculação. O objetivo deste trabalho foi comparar pacientes com e sem resolução do segmento ST e identificar variáveis que se associam à não resolução do ST. MÉTODOS: Entre março de 2012 e julho de 2013, 61 pacientes com infarto agudo do miocárdio com elevação do segmento ST foram submetidos à intervenção coronária percutânea (ICP) primária e incluídos em um registro prospectivo. Para comparar os grupos com e sem resolução do segmento ST, foi utilizado o teste qui-quadrado ou exato de Fisher, para as variáveis qualitativas, e o teste t de Student ou de Mann-Whitney, para variáveis quantitativas. Para identificar variáveis associadas à não resolução do ST, foram ajustados modelos de regressão logística simples e múltipla. RESULTADOS: O grupo de pacientes sem resolução do segmento ST apresentou maior frequência cardíaca, maior prevalência de diabetes mellitus, de insuficiência renal crônica e tendência a maior tempo de isquemia. Observou-se maior mortalidade hospitalar entre pacientes que não obtiveram resolução do ST. Pela análise univariada, as variáveis frequência cardíaca, diabetes mellitus, insuficiência renal crônica e tempo de isquemia associaram-se à maior chance de não resolução do ST, perdendo significância no modelo multivariado. CONCLUSÕES: A não resolução do segmento ST pode ocorrer em até um terço dos pacientes submetidos à ICP primária, requerendo o advento de novas estratégias farmacológicas ou de intervenção capazes de minimizá-la. BACKGROUND: ST-segment resolution is an important predictor of infarct-related artery patency and effective microcirculatory perfusion. The aim of this study was to compare patients with and without ST-segment elevation resolution and identify variables that are associated with failure of ST-segment resolution. METHODS: Between March 2012 and July 2013, 61 patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and were included in a prospective registry. To compare the groups with and without ST-segment resolution, the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test were used for qualitative variables and Student's t test or Mann-Whitney's test for quantitative variables. Simple and multiple logistic regression models were used to identify variables associated with failure of ST-segment resolution. RESULTS: The group of patients without ST-segment resolution had higher heart rate, higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure and a trend towards longer ischemia time. There was a higher mortality rate in patients who did not achieve ST-segment elevation resolution. In the univariate analysis, heart rate, diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure and ischemia time were associated with increased odds of not obtaining ST-segment resolution, losing significance in the multivariate model. CONCLUSIONS: Failure of ST-segment resolution is observed in up to one-third of patients undergoing primary PCI and requires new pharmacologic strategies or interventions to minimize it.

Background Unsuccessful radial artery puncture, inability to advance the guide catheter to the ascending aorta, and inadequate guide catheter support represent mechanisms of transradial approach failure. With the rationale of sharing the same efficacy and safety promoted by radial access, the transulnar approach represents an alternative access site for percutaneous coronary procedures. Methods Between May 2007 and May 2012, 11,059 coronary invasive procedures were performed in a single institution: 10,108 by transradial approach (91.4%), 541 by transfemoral approach (4.9%), and 410 by transulnar approach (3.7%). Patients who underwent coronary procedures through transulnar access were included in a prospective registry of effectiveness and safety. Results Diagnostic procedures accounted for 71.8% of cases, and the right ulnar access was the most common route (88.9%). Procedure success was high (98.5%), with a crossover rate of 1.5% (6 cases), of which 5 were achieved through the contralateral radial access and 1 through femoral approach. Complications related to access site were low (3.9%), consisting mostly of minor bleeding due to subcutaneous hematomas. There were no cases of major bleeding, nerve injury, pseudoaneurysm, arteriovenous fistula, or necessity of vascular surgical repair. Conclusions The transulnar approach represents an alternative to the transradial approach in selected cases when performed by radial-trained operators, sharing a high success rate and extremely low incidence of access-site complications.

INTRODUÇÃO: O acesso radial tem demonstrado resultados superiores aos do acesso femoral na redução de complicações vasculares e ocorrência de sangramentos associados aos procedimentos coronários percutâneos. Entretanto, por ser procedimento mais elaborado, requer dos operadores curva de aprendizagem para se obter todas as vantagens da técnica. O objetivo deste estudo foi apresentar as características dos procedimentos de um serviço que prioriza a utilização da via radial. MÉTODOS: Registro prospectivo de pacientes submetidos a intervenção coronária percutânea (ICP) pelo acesso radial ou ulnar, em que foram avaliados sucesso angiográfico do procedimento, falência da técnica, taxa de eventos adversos isquêmicos e sangramento grave. Análise pré-especificada do subgrupo que realizou ICP para coronária direita foi realizada, comparando pacientes que utilizaram cateteres Judkins de direita (JR) ou Amplatz. RESULTADOS: Entre abril de 2010 e maio de 2012, 1.117 pacientes realizaram ICP, 1.040 (93,1%) pela via radial e 50 (4,5%), pela ulnar. Sedação foi realizada em 58,5% dos pacientes, a taxa de crossover foi de 1,2% e o sucesso angiográfico, de 96,2%. Cateteres extra backup foram utilizados em 99,1% das ICPs para coronária esquerda, JR em 69,4%, e Amplatz em 27,1% das ICPs para coronária direita. Na comparação entre JR e Amplatz, observou-se maior duração do procedimento, tempo de fluoroscopia, número de cateteres, pré-dilatação da lesão e número de stents implantados no grupo que utilizou cateteres Amplatz, bem como menor sucesso angiográfico. CONCLUSÕES: A utilização do acesso radial na ICP mostrou alto índice de sucesso e baixo índice de eventos cardíacos maiores e de complicações hemorrágicas. O emprego liberal da sedação e de introdutores 6 F associado à escolha de cateteres com maior suporte são características operacionais de nosso centro, que prioriza o uso da técnica radial. BACKGROUND: The radial approach has demonstrated superior benefits to the femoral approach in reducing vascular complications and bleeding events associated to percutaneous coronary interventions. However, because this is a more complex procedure, it requires a learning curve to get all of the advantages of the technique. The aim of this study was to present the characteristics of the procedures of a center that prioritizes the use of radial approach. METHODS: Prospective registry of patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using the radial or ulnar access where angiographic success, technical failure, ischemic adverse events and severe bleeding rates were assessed. A pre-specified analysis of the group undergoing PCI for the right coronary artery was performed, comparing patients using Judkins right catheter (JR) or Amplatz catheters. RESULTS: Between April 2010 and May 2012, 1,117 patients underwent PCI, 1,040 (93.1%) by the radial approach and 50 (4.5%) by the ulnar approach. Sedation was performed in 58.5% of the patients, the crossover rate was 1.2%, and angiographic success was 96.2%. Extra backup catheters were used in 99.1% of PCIs for the left coronary artery, JR in 69.4% and Amplatz in 27.1% of the PCIs for the right coronary artery. When the JR and Amplatz were compared, longer procedure duration, longer fluoroscopy time, larger number of catheters, more frequent lesion predilation and higher number of implanted stents were observed in the group using Amplatz catheters as well as lower angiographic success rates. CONCLUSIONS: The use of radial access in PCI showed a high success rate and a low rate of major cardiac events and bleeding complications. The liberal use of sedation and 6 F introducer sheaths, associated to catheters with stronger backup force, are characteristics of our center, which prioritizes the use of the radial approach.

INTRODUÇÃO: A realização de procedimentos coronários invasivos pelo acesso radial tem sido crescente, graças à exibição de dados consistentes que corroboram sua segurança e eficácia. Embora seja uma complicação infrequente e, na maioria das vezes, assintomática, a oclusão da artéria radial, quando ocorre, impede a reutilização dessa via em procedimentos futuros. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo que avaliou pacientes submetidos a intervenção coronária percutânea (ICP) pelo acesso radial, utilizando o dispositivo de compressão radial TR BandTM como técnica para obtenção de hemostasia com manutenção de fluxo anterógrado, de acordo com novo protocolo proposto para o manuseio do dispositivo. RESULTADOS: No período entre fevereiro e março de 2011, foram incluídos 30 pacientes submetidos a ICP com a utilização do dispositivo TR BandTM para obtenção de hemostasia após o procedimento. Entre os pacientes avaliados, 27 (90%) relataram conforto e ausência de dor na região do punho; a saturação arterial de oxigênio manteve-se > 90% em 29 (96,6%) pacientes; não se constatou episódio de oclusão arterial, mantendo-se o pulso presente após o término da compressão e na alta hospitalar em todos os casos; e a hemostasia foi obtida no intervalo e com a retirada do volume de ar predeterminado em 26 (86,7%) pacientes. CONCLUSÕES: Neste estudo, o dispositivo de compressão radial TR BandTM demonstrou ser técnica segura e eficaz de hemostasia, com manutenção de fluxo anterógrado após a ICP. A utilização do protocolo proposto neste estudo para o manejo do dispositivo mostrou ser factível e de fácil aplicação, sem a demanda por avaliações frequentes, que podem desestimular seu uso mais amplo. BACKGROUND: The use of the transradial approach has increased steadily, thanks to the availability of consistent data supporting their safety and effectiveness. Although radial artery occlusion is a rare and mostly asymptomatic complication, its occurrence prevents reuse of radial access in future procedures. METHODS: Prospective study assessing consecutive patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) by radial access using the TR BandTM radial compression device to obtain hemostasis and maintain anterograde flow, according to the new protocol proposed to handle the device. RESULTS: From February to March 2011, 30 patients undergoing PCI using the TR BandTM to obtain hemostasis after the procedure were included in the study. Twenty-seven (90%) patients reported comfort and no wrist pain; arterial oxygen saturation remained > 90% in 29 (96.6%) patients; there was no episode of arterial occlusion, and pulse was present after compression and at discharge in all cases; and hemostasis was obtained within the interval and with the removal of pre-established volume of air in 26 (86.7%) patients. CONCLUSIONS: The TR BandTM radial compression device is a safe and effective strategy to achieve hemostasis, maintaining anterograde flow after PCI. The use of the protocol proposed for the management of the device proved to be feasible and easy to apply, without demanding frequent assessments that may discourage a more extensive use of this device.

INTRODUÇÃO: O acesso radial associa-se a baixa ocorrência de complicações vasculares. Essa característica o torna vantajoso nas síndromes coronárias agudas, em que é frequente o uso agressivo de terapias antiplaquetária e antitrombótica. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a eficácia e a segurança do acesso radial na realização de intervenção percutânea primária, em que atrasos na reperfusão advindos de maior dificuldade técnica representariam um fator limitante. MÉTODO: Registro envolvendo pacientes submetidos a intervenção percutânea primária pelo acesso radial. Os desfechos de eficácia constituíram-se em mortalidade hospitalar, tempo porta-balão, obtenção de fluxo final TIMI III e conclusão do procedimento sem troca da via de acesso. A segurança foi avaliada por meio de taxa de sangramento grave e ocorrência de complicações relacionadas ao sítio de punção. RESULTADOS: Entre fevereiro de 2007 e novembro de 2009, 211 pacientes foram submetidos a intervenção percutânea primária, 201 por meio de aces-so radial. A média de idade foi de 59 anos, sendo 27,4% do sexo feminino e 22,4% portadores de diabetes melito. Foram obtidos fluxo final TIMI III em 91,5% dos pacientes e resolução do segmento ST > 50% em 88,5%, com taxa de crossover de 1,5%. A mortalidade hospitalar foi de 4,5% e a taxa de sangramento grave foi de 1%, sendo um episódio de hemorragia digestiva alta e uma queda de hemoglobina de 5 g/dl. As complicações vasculares relacionadas ao sítio de punção limitaram-se a três casos de hematoma tipo II e a dois casos de hematoma tipo III, sem repercussão clínica e com resolução espontânea. CONCLUSÃO: O acesso radial representa uma via eficaz e segura para a realização de intervenção coronária percutânea primária por operadores habituados ao emprego da técnica, com ocorrência virtualmente nula de complicações vasculares graves relacionadas ao sítio de punção. BACKGROUND: Transradial approach is associated with a low incidence of vascular complications. This peculiarity makes it useful in acute coronary syndromes, where aggressive antiplatelet and antithrombotic therapy is frequently used. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of transradial approach in primary percutaneous intervention, where delays in achieving reperfusion resulting from technical difficulties are unacceptable. METHOD: Registry including consecutive patients undergoing primary percutaneous intervention by transradial approach. The efficacy endpoints were in-hospital mortality, door-to-balloon time, final TIMI III flow and access site crossover. Safety was assessed by the rate of major bleeding and complications related to the puncture site. RESULTS: From February 2007 to November 2009, 211 patients underwent primary percutaneous intervention, 201 of them by transradial approach. Mean age was 59 years, 27.4% were female and 22.4% had diabetes mellitus. Final TIMI III flow was achieved in 91.5% of patients, ST segment resolution > 50% in 88.5%, with a crossover rate of 1.5%. In-hospital mortality was 4.5% and the rate of major bleeding was 1%, with one episode of upper gastrointestinal bleeding and a decrease in hemoglobin > 5 g/dl. Vascular complications related to the puncture site were limited to 3 cases of type II hematoma and 2 cases of type III hematoma, with no clinical impact and spontaneous resolution. CONCLUSION: The transradial approach, performed by operators familiarized with the technique, is a safe and effective alternative for primary percutaneous coronary intervention, with virtually no major vascular complications related to the puncture site.

BackgroundInvasive coronary procedures are common in patients with previous coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Data on the actual role and possible limitations of the radial approach in this subgroup of patients are sparse. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of radial access in patients surgically revascularized and who underwent subsequent invasive diagnostic or therapeutic coronary procedures, comparing it to the femoral access.MethodsBetween May 2008 and November 2014, 959 procedures were included; 539 performed by radial access and 420 by femoral access. All operators were familiar with both vascular accesses, and the final decision on the route to be used was left to the operators discretion.ResultsThe failure rate was 6.1% vs. 0.5% (p < 0.0001), favoring the femoral approach. Major adverse cardiac events (0.4% vs. 0.7%) and vascular complications (1.5% vs. 1.9%) rates were low, with no difference between groups. The choice of the radial approach resulted in greater fluoroscopy time and crossover rate between access routes, especially in diagnostic procedures.ConclusionsThe radial approach was a safe and effective option for invasive coronary procedures in post- coronary artery bypass graft patients, especially for therapeutic procedures.

Background The current decline observed in mortality rate among patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction can be attributed not only to the increased use of reperfusion strategies, but also to a change in the demographic profile of this population, notably the reduction in mean age. Methods We retrospectively reviewed all patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention in the period from April 2010 to December 2014. The primary objective was the characterization of the most prevalent risk factors, the angiographic nature of the lesions, the technical aspects of the procedure, and in-hospital clinical outcomes in patients aged ≤ 45 years, comparing them to those aged > 45 years. Results Among 489 patients with acute myocardial infarction, 54 were ≤ 45 years, and 435 were > 45 years. Young patients exhibited a higher prevalence of smoking and obesity, while patients > 45 years were more likely to have hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and previous myocardial infarction. Primary percutaneous coronary intervention in young patients was associated with the use of fewer guide catheters, shorter fluoroscopy time, and higher percentage of direct stent implantation. Young patients exhibited good in-hospital outcomes, with lower rate of adverse cardiac events (3.7% vs. 9.2%; p = 0.30). Conclusions Patients aged ≤ 45 years accounted for approximately 10% of cases of ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction and exhibited high prevalence of modifiable risk factors.

Background Pioneer publications discourage the use of ulnar access after failed attempt to obtain ipsilateral radial access. Methods Prospective efficacy and safety registry comparing the incidence of bleeding and vascular complications in patients with an initial intention to use ulnar access and those who used this access after a failed attempt to cannulate the ipsilateral radial artery. Results Between May 2007 and December 2013, 11,825 invasive coronary procedures were performed at a single center, 473 (4%) of them by ulnar access. In 65 cases, the ulnar artery cannulation was preceded by a failed attempt to obtain the ipsilateral radial access. The technical success rate was higher than 98%, with low complication rates, mostly due to superficial hematomas, with no differences between groups. There were no cases of major bleeding related to the access site, pseudoaneurysm, arteriovenous fistula or injury to the adjacent ulnar nerve. Conclusions The ulnar access is a safe and effective alternative to perform selected invasive coronary procedures, despite previous attempts to obtain the ipsilateral radial access.