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Background Myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) constitutes about 10% of the cases of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). It is a working diagnosis and requires further diagnostics to determine the cause of ACS. Methods In this study, 178 patients were initially diagnosed with MINOCA over a period of 3 years at the Department of Invasive Cardiology of the University Clinical Hospital in Białystok. The value of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated for all patients. The patients were divided into 2 groups depending on the value of eGFR: group 1—53 patients with impaired kidney function (eGFR 2; 29.8%) and group 2—125 patients with normal kidney function (eGFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2; 70.2%). Results In group 1, the mean age of patients was significantly higher than that of group 2 patients (77.40 vs 59.27; p p = 0.003). Group 1 patients had higher incidence rate of arterial hypertension (92.45% vs 60.80%; p p = 0.0002) and smoked cigarettes (22.64% vs 40.80%; p = 0.020). Group 1 patients had higher incidence rate of pulmonary edema, cardiogenic shock, sudden cardiac arrest (13.21% vs 4.00%; p = 0.025), and pneumonia (22.64% vs 6.40%; p = 0.001). After the 37-month observation, the mortality rate of the patients with MINOCA was 16.85%. Among group two patients, more of them became deceased during hospitalization (7.55% vs 0.80%; p = 0.012), followed by after 1 year (26.42% vs 7.20%; p = 0.0004) and after 3 years (33.96% vs 9.6%; p Conclusion Impaired kidney function is diagnosed in every third patient with MINOCA. Early and late prognosis of patents with MINOCA and renal dysfunction is poor, and their 3-year mortality is comparable to patients with myocardial infarction with significant stenosis of the coronary arteries and impaired kidney function.

Introduction Valvular heart diseases (VHD) are becoming a significant problem in the Polish population. Coexistence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with VHD increases the risk of death and affects further therapeutic strategy. Aim Analysis impact of CKD on long-term prognosis in patients with VHD. Material and methods The inclusion criteria were met by 1025 patients with moderate and severe VHD. Mean observation time was 2528 ± 1454 days. Results The average age of the studied population was 66.75 (SD = 10.34), male gender was dominant 56% (N = 579). Severe aortic valve stenosis (AVS) occurred in 28.2%, severe mitral valve insufficiency (MVI) in 20%. CKD occurred in 37.1% (N = 380) patients mostly with mitral stenosis (50%, N = 16) and those with severe MVI (44.8%, N = 94). During the observational period, 52.7% (N = 540) deaths were noted. Increased risk of mortality was associated mostly with age (OR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.00–1.03, p p p p = 0.01) and coexisting of AVS (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.04–1.35, p = 0.01). Conclusions Mitral valve defects more often than aortic valve defects coexist with chronic kidney disease. Regardless of the stage, chronic kidney disease is an additional factor affecting the prognosis in patients with heart defects. Factors increasing the risk of death were age, creatinine concentration and reduced EF. The monitoring of renal function in patients with VHD should be crucial as well as the implementation of treatment at an early stage.

Background The most serious complication of the acute Takotsubo phase is a myocardial perforation, which is rare, but it usually results in the death of the patient. Methods In the years 2008–2020, 265 patients were added to the Podlasie Takotsubo Registry. Cardiac rupture was observed in five patients (1.89%), referred to as the Takotsubo syndrome with complications of cardiac rupture (TS+CR) group. The control group consisted of 50 consecutive patients with uncomplicated TS. The diagnosis of TS was based on the Mayo Clinic Criteria. Results Cardiac rupture was observed in women with TS aged 74–88 years. Patients with TS and CR were older (82.20 vs. 64.84; p=0.011), than the control group, and had higher troponin, creatine kinase, aspartate aminotransferase, and blood glucose levels (168.40 vs. 120.67; p=0.010). The TS+CR group demonstrated a higher heart rate (95.75 vs. 68.38; p Conclusions Cardiac rupture in TS is rare but is the most severe mechanical complication and is associated with a very high risk of death. The main risk factors for left ventricular perforation are female gender, older age, a higher concentration of cardiac enzymes, higher GRACE scores, and ST elevations shown using electrocardiogram (ECG). Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) symptoms may mimic coronary artery disease (CAD) which reflects the difficulties in qualifying AF patients for invasive diagnostics. A substantial number of coronary angiographies may be unnecessary or even put patients at risk of post-contrast acute kidney injury (PC-AKI), especially patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). We aimed to investigate the hypothesis indicating higher prevalence of PC-AKI in patients with AF scheduled for coronary angiography. The study population comprised of 8026 patients referred for elective coronarography including 1621 with AF. In the comparison of prevalence of PC-AKI in distinguished groups we can see that kidney impairment was twice more frequent in patients with AF in both groups with CKD (CKD (+)/AF (+) 6.24% vs. CKD (+)/AF (−) 3.04%) and without CKD (CKD (−)/AF (+) 2.32% vs. CKD (−)/AF (−) 1.22%). In our study, post-contrast acute kidney disease is twice more frequent in patients with AF, especially in subgroup with chronic kidney disease scheduled for coronary angiography. Additionally, having in mind results of previous studies stating that AF is associated with non-obstructive coronary lesions on angiography, patients with AF and CKD may be unnecessarily exposed to contrast agent and possible complications.

Introduction Coexistence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the case of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) significantly worsens the outcomes. Aim The aim of our study was to assess renal function impact on mortality among patients with ACS. Materials and methods The study was based on records of 21,985 patients hospitalized in the Medical University of Bialystok in 2009–2015. Inclusion criteria were ACS. Exclusion criteria were: death within 24 h of admission, eGFR

Introduction The clinical courses of takotsubo syndrome (TS) and of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) seem to be very similar. However, there is limited knowledge about risk factors of poor outcomes. Low body mass index worsens the prognosis of patients with cardiovascular diseases, especially those undergoing surgical treatment. The aim of the study was to evaluate the influence of the body mass index (BMI) on the prognosis in patients diagnosed with TS. Material and methods Eighty patients aged 15-89 (mean: 67.9 years), 74 women and 6 men with TS diagnosis according to Mayo Clinic diagnostic criteria were divided into 3 groups: low body mass (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2), normal body mass (18.5 ≥ BMI < 25 kg/m2) and excessive body mass (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2). Results Patients with low BMI were older, but with less prevalent risk factors such as hypertension, hypercholesterolemia and positive family history of coronary artery disease and more frequent risk factors such as cigarette smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), depressive and anxiety disorders as well as malignancy. They also had higher haemoglobin, lower troponin, creatine kinase, C-reactive protein and lipid fractions. The highest annual, 3-year and 5-year mortality was observed in the group with BMI < 18.5 kg/m2. None of the patients with low BMI survived the 5-year follow-up period (100% vs. 25% vs. 15.2%; p < 0.0001). In group III, mortality among overweight patients (25 ≥ BMI < 30 kg/m2) was 8.3%, and in obese people (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) 1 out 5 patients died during follow-up. Conclusions The majority of typical cardiovascular risk factors are less frequently observed in patients with TS and low body mass. Early prognosis for TS patients and low BMI is relatively favourable, whereas the 5-year follow-up is associated with extremely high mortality. Overweight patients have the best prognosis in the long-term follow-up.

IntroductionAcute coronary syndromes (ACS) are the leading cause of death all over the world. In the last years, the chronobiology of their occurrence has been changing.Material and methodsMedical records of 10,529 patients hospitalized for ACS in the Medical University of Bialystok, in 2008–2017, were examined. Weather conditions data for Bialystok County were obtained from the Institute of Meteorology.Results: The highest seasonal mean for ACS was recorded in spring (OR = 1.08, 95% CI: 1.00–1.18, p = 0.049) and it was the season with the largest temperature changes from day to day (∆ temp. = 11.01). On the other hand, every 10ºC change in temperature was associated with increased admission due to ACS by 13% (RR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.040–1.300, p = 0.008) and 12% in patients over 70 (RR = 1.118, 95% CI: 1.001–1.249, p = 0.048, lag 1). Analysis of weekly changes showed that the highest frequency of ACS occurred on Thursday (OR = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.05–1.28, p = 0.003), while in the STEMI subgroup it was Monday (n = 592, mean = 0.94, SD = 1.04, OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.07–1.36, p = 0.003). Sunday was associated with decreased admissions due to all types of ACS (OR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.63–0.77, p < 0.001).ConclusionsWeather conditions have an impact on ACS frequency and the elderly are more susceptible. We observed a shift in the seasonal peak of ACS occurrence from winter to spring which may be related to temperature fluctuations associated with climate change in this season. The lowest frequency of ACS took place on weekends.

Background: The most serious complication of the acute Takotsubo phase is a myocardial perforation, which is rare, but it usually results in the death of the patient. Methods: In the years 2008–2020, 265 patients were added to the Podlasie Takotsubo Registry. Cardiac rupture was observed in five patients (1.89%), referred to as the Takotsubo syndrome with complications of cardiac rupture (TS+CR) group. The control group consisted of 50 consecutive patients with uncomplicated TS. The diagnosis of TS was based on the Mayo Clinic Criteria. Results: Cardiac rupture was observed in women with TS aged 74–88 years. Patients with TS and CR were older (82.20 vs. 64.84, p = 0.011), than the control group, and had higher troponin, creatine kinase, aspartate aminotransferase, and blood glucose levels (168.40 vs. 120.67, p = 0.010). The TS+CR group demonstrated a higher heart rate (95.75 vs. 68.38, p &lt, 0.0001) and the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) scores (186.20 vs. 121.24, 0.0001) than the control group. In patients with CR, ST segment elevation was recorded significantly more often in the III, V4, V5 and V6 leads. Left ventricular free wall rupture was noted in four patients, and in one case, rupture of the ventricular septum. In a multivariate logistic regression, the factors that increase the risk of CR in TS were high GRACE scores, and the presence of ST segment elevation in lead III. Conclusions: Cardiac rupture in TS is rare but is the most severe mechanical complication and is associated with a very high risk of death. The main risk factors for left ventricular perforation are female gender, older age, a higher concentration of cardiac enzymes, higher GRACE scores, and ST elevations shown using electrocardiogram (ECG).

Patient: Female, 71-year-old Final Diagnosis: Acute pleuropericarditis Symptoms: Weakness Medication:— Clinical Procedure: — Specialty: Cardiology Objective: Unusual clinical course Background: Pleuropericarditis after pacemaker (IPG) implantation is a rare post-cardiac injury syndrome (PCIS) condition. Pericarditis is one of the complications following insertion of a IPG; it affects 2–5% of patients within 5–21 days after IPG implementation and is associated with screw-in (active fixation) atrial lead positioning. Usually, pericarditis following IPG implantation is benign and has a self-limiting course. The mechanism of this complication remains unclear. It could involve a direct irritation of pericardium by minimally protruding electrodes, low bleeding, and autoimmune and inflammatory responses. The frequency of pleuropericarditis is not well defined. The etiopathogenesis is presumed to be the same as for pericarditis, yet there are no standardized criteria for the diagnosis, and treatment is based on the empirical anti-inflammatory therapy used in pericarditis. Case Report: A 71-year-old woman was admitted due to syncope. Sinus arrests with escape atrioventricular rhythm were observed during hospitalization; therefore, a dual-chamber pacemaker (IPG) was implanted with 2 active fixation (screw-in) electrodes. On the first day after implantation, a slight pericardial hemorrhage occurred with resorption in the following days, and an inflammatory reaction with pericardial and left pleural effusion occurred later. The first-line treatment was ineffective. However, prednisolone with colchicines with longer use than suggested by pericarditis recommendations was effective. Conclusions: Patients with even mild pericardial effusion after IPG insertion should be followed closely due to the risk of pleuropericarditis, with consideration of anti-inflammatory treatment for longer than in pericarditis.

BACKGROUND Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide. Many studies have reported an association between serum uric acid (sUA) and CVD, and its role as a risk marker for mortality. OBJECTIVES To assess the relationship between sUA levels and the long-term prognosis of patients with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). MATERIAL AND METHODS The study was conducted at the Clinical Hospital of Bialystok (Poland). Based on medical records, 9328 patients were hospitalized between 2011 and 2013, of which 726 had NSTEMI. The exclusion criteria were: any diagnosed neoplasms and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)

Introduction Currently, the greatest threat to the health and life of people and the leading cause of death in Poland are cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Air quality is a well-known risk factor for the development of them. Purpose The aim of this study is to assess the impact of air pollution on the frequency of hospital admissions due to acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods The medical records of 30,695 patients hospitalized in the Department of Invasive Cardiology were analyzed. Patients treated for ACS and living within the borders of the analyzed city met inclusion criteria. Weather conditions such as temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, wind speed and the following components of air pollution were analyzed: carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), trioxygen (O3), particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 μm or less (PM2.5) and with a diameter of 10 μm or less (PM10). Poisson regression was used for statistical analysis. Results The study included 3,325 inhabitants of analyzed city (mean age 66.2 years, SD=12.2), male in majority (60.3%). The number of patients admitted for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and unstable angina (UA) was 1002, 1265, and 1058, respectively. An increase of CO concentration by 1 g/m3 was associated with a higher number of admissions due to NSTEMI (RR 1.74; 95% CI, 1.08–2.8; P=0.02), this effect was more noticeable in the female population (RR - 2.8; 95% CI, 1.39–5.65; P=0.004). In male subjects an increase in the concentration of PM2.5 by 10 μg/m3 was associated with a 0.5% increase in the number of admissions for NSTEMI (RR 1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.22; P=0.02) and UA (OR 1.14, 95% CI 1.02–1.25; P=0.014). An increase in the concentration of SO2 by 1 μg/m3 affected the frequency of admissions in men due to NSTEMI (0.5% increase, RR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01–1.07; P=0.007) and UA (OR 1.17, 95% CI 1.02–1.36; P=0.031). The concentration of 03 and NO2 did not affect admissions rate due to ACS. Conclusions Air quality had an impact on the occurrence of ACS among residents of Bialystok. Increased exposure to air pollution, in particular, elevated PM2.5, SO2 and CO levels, was associated with a higher incidence of NSTEMI and UA. This effect was more noticeable in the male population. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Introduction Air pollution is considered to be one of the main risk factors for public health, in particular its impact on the disorders of the pulmonary and cardiovascular system and the related mortality. Purpose This study was carried out to assess the influence of the atmospheric conditions and air pollutants on mortality in the population of the big city in the eastern Poland. Materials and methods Based on the data from the Central Statistical Office, the number and causes of the deaths of the city residents in the period 2008–2017 were analyzed. The study utilized the data recorded by the Provincial Inspectorate for Environmental Protection station and the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management during the analysis period. Multivariate Poisson regression was used for statistical analysis. Results A total of 34,005 deaths had been recorded, in which women accounted for 47.5%. The proportion of cardiovascular-related deaths was 48% (N=16,370). The main causes of deaths in the female population were chronic ischemic heart disease (N=1683; 10.42%) and cerebral infarction (N=1617; 10.01%), while in the male population, in addition to chronic ischemic heart disease (N=1530; 8.57%), deaths were caused mainly by malignant neoplasm of the bronchus and lung (N=1555; 8.71%). During the analysis, it was observed that the 1-day norm of sulfur dioxide (SO2) recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines was sporadically exceeded (N=18, 0.50% of analyzed days), while the daily norm for the particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 μm or less (PM2.5) was exceeded on 688 days (23.60% of analyzed days). In the female group, excluding the seasonal impact, an increase of SO2 concentration by 1-μg/m3 (RR 1.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.01–1.10; P=0.009) and a 10°C decrease of temperature (RR 1.04, 95% CI 1.02–1.07; P=0.003) were related to an increase in the number of daily deaths. In the male group, a stronger effect of SO2concentration on mortality was noted; the RR for 1-μg/m3 increase of SO2 was 1.10 (95% CI 1.04–1.18; P=0.002). In the subgroup analysis of cardiovascular deaths, the main pollutant that was found to have an effect on daily mortality was PM2.5; the RR for 10-μg/m3 increase of PM2.5 was 1.07 (95% CI 1.02–1.12; P=0.01). Conclusions Air quality and atmospheric conditions had an impact on the mortality of Białystok residents, and this effect was more pronounced in the male population. The main air pollutants that influenced the rate of mortality were SO2and PM2.5. In the female population, an additional factor that influenced the total mortality and mortality due to cardiovascular diseases was temperature. It is worth emphasizing that the impact of SO2 on mortality was clear within “safe” range recommended by WHO. More research on that topic is necessary, but our results bring questions whether the recommended norms should be stricter, or is there a safe concentration of SO2 in the air at all. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Background. The prognosis of Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is comparable to that of the non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). The GRACE scale is used to assess the risk of premature and long-term mortality in patients with NSTEMI in order to select the most favorable treatment strategy. Methods. 101 patients with TTS hospitalized in four centers of invasive cardiology in Podlaskie Voivodeship during the period 2008–2012 were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups: I—52 patients (GRACE ≤ 140 points) and II—49 patients (GRACE > 140 points). Results. The mean GRACE score in the study group was 138.66. The in-hospital stay of Takotsubo in the patients with higher GRACE scores was associated with higher incidence of pneumonia (36.7% vs 7.69%, p=0.0004), rhythm abnormalities (17.3% vs 3.85%, p=0.026), and serious complications (cardiogenic shock, pulmonary edema, and sudden cardiac arrest) (30.6% vs 5.77%, p=0.001). The mean observation period was 7.2 years. A significantly higher risk of 6-month (18.37% vs 3.85%, p=0.019), 1-year (22.45 vs 3.85%, p=0.005), 3-year (40.82 vs 3.85%, p<0.0001), 5-year (42.86% vs 3.85%, p<0.0001), and 7-year mortalities (53.06% vs 9.62%, p<0.0001) was observed in the group of patients with a GRACE score ≥140. At multivariate analysis including low BMI, low eGFR, and a higher GRACE score, all these factors were independent predictor of death (p=0.042; p=0.010; p=0.041). The ROC curve presents the discriminatory scores of the GRACE scale for the follow-up prognostication. The area under ROC curve (AUC) for the GRACE scale was 0.805 (95% CI: 0.718–0.892, p<0.0001), with a cut-off value of 153 points, sensitivity of 74%, and specificity of 77% for TTS. Conclusion. The GRACE scale is highly valuable for the prognostication of death risk in patients with TTS in the early and long-term observation.

Patient: Female, 62-year-old Final Diagnosis: Takotsubo syndrome Symptoms: Chest pain Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Coronarography Specialty: Cardiology • Oncology Objective: Unknown ethiology Background: The main causes for takotsubo syndrome (TS) in oncological patients are stress related to cancer diagnosis and treatment, pain in the course of the disease, treatment complications, and paraneoplastic syndromes. Case Report: An obese 62-year-old female patient, with a 3-day history of chest pain, was admitted to the hospital with a suspected acute coronary event. She had been diagnosed with high-grade bladder cancer 6 months before. After the transurethral electroresection of the tumor 5 months before and subsequent chemotherapy (gemcitabine and cisplatin), the patient was qualified for the next cancer surgery. On admission, the patient remained without chest pain. The ECG record demonstrated inverted T waves in the leads from above the anterior and lateral wall. The coronarography demonstrated minor atherosclerotic changes in the coronary arteries. The left ventriculography presented akinesis of the apex and the apical and mid-segment of the anterior wall, and the ejection fraction (EF) was 38%. Takotsubo syndrome was diagnosed. Laboratory testing revealed elevated concentration of troponin and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide. The subsequent ECG records demonstrated deeply inverted T waves and numerous ventricular premature beats and increased QTc (528 ms). A control echocardiography showed improved left ventricular contractive function (EF – 47%). On the 4th day of hospitalization, the patient was discharged and referred for further oncological treatment. Conclusions: The diagnosis of TS in oncology patients is difficult, especially in the presence of atherosclerotic lesions in coronary arteries. Takotsubo syndrome in cancer patients delays the next stages of oncological treatment, which worsens the prognosis of these patients.

Background Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) is characterised by transient contractility disturbances of the apex of the left ventricle. Methods We enrolled 101 patients from the northern-eastern part of Poland in the years 2008–2012 who were hospitalised for TCC. The control group consisted of female patients diagnosed with anterior myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation (anterior STEMI) (n = 101). Results 89 % of the study group were women. Patients with TTC had diabetes (12.6 % vs 29.7 %; p = 0.002) and hyperlipidaemia (36.8 % vs 64.4 %; p = 0.0001) significantly less frequently, and better kidney function assessed by estimated glomerular filtration rate versus patients with anterior STEMI (74.52 % vs 64.30 %; p = 0.004). In the TTC group there were more patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (11.6 % vs 1.0 %; p = 0.002) and thyroid disturbances, especially hyperthyroidism (23.4 % vs 11.0 %; p = 0.021). In patients with TTC sudden cardiac arrest, pulmonary oedema and cardiogenic shock were observed less frequently than in the control group (14.7 % vs 30.7 %; p = 0.0078). Hospitalisations in TTC patients were less frequently complicated by pneumonia (20.0 % vs 35.6 %; p = 0.0148) and urinary infection (4.2 % vs 21.8 %; p = 0.0003). Cardiac rupture occurred in 3 patients with TTC and in 1 with anterior STEMI. In-hospital mortality was significantly lower in the group with TTC. Also, mortality at 30 days, 3 months, 1 year and 2.5 years was significantly lower in patients with TTC than in patients with MI (p = 0.035; p = 0.0226; p = 0.0075; p = 0.009). Conclusions Previously considered to be a benign syndrome, TTC should be reconsidered as a clinical condition at risk for serious complications such as cardiac arrest, cardiogenic shock, pulmonary oedema and cardiac rupture leading to death and causing substantial early hazard. The prognosis in TTC is significantly better than in patients with anterior STEMI.

Patient: Male, 84-year-old Final Diagnosis: Takotsubo syndrome Symptoms: Chest pain • dyspnea Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Coronary angiography • echocardiography Specialty: Cardiology Objective: Unusual or unexpected effect of treatment Background: Although takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is usually mild, severe complications such as acute heart failure may occur in the acute phase. Because of the etiology of TTS, typical catecholamines are not recommended; the use of inotropic drugs with a different mechanism of action is recommended, mainly levosimendan. Case Report: An 84-year-old patient with cardiovascular risk factors, hospitalized in a city hospital because of exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), was transferred to the clinic with suspected myocardial infarction. At the time of admission, the patient was hemodynamically stable. The coronarography indicated insignificant atherosclerotic lesions in the coronary arteries. The echocardiography revealed apical akinesis and hypokinesis of the apical and middle left ventricular segments (LV). The ejection fraction (EF) was 40%. TTS was diagnosed. After 12 h of hospitalization, the patient developed symptoms of acute heart failure, with deterioration of the LV systolic function (EF 30%). Levosimendan was included in the treatment, which led to an increased blood pressure and clinical improvement after several hours. Over the next few days, the patient’s condition improved and he was transferred to the referral center, from which he was discharged to home. Conclusions: In patients with COPD, exacerbation of the disease may be a trigger for TTS. In acute heart failure complicating TTS, administration of levosimendan improves the clinical condition of patients.

Introduction The prognosis of takotsubo syndrome (TTS) was recognized as benign. However, patients with TTS and chronic kidney disease (CKD) more often experience severe complications in the acute phase of the disease, particularly sudden cardiac arrest. Objectives We aimed to assess the impact of CKD on early and long-term outcomes, including mortality, among 95 patients with TTS. Patients and methods All patients underwent coronary angiography. Clinical, biochemical, and other medical data were recorded. Estimated glomerular filtration rate was assessed using the CKD‑EPI formula. Results CKD was diagnosed in 32% of the patients. Contrast‑induced acute kidney injury (CI‑AKI) was not reported in any of the patients. Patients with CKD were older but had a lower prevalence of positive cardiovascular family history as well as higher creatine kinase activity and concentrations of inflammatory parameters. During hospitalization, sudden cardiac arrest was more common in CKD patients. In‑hospital, 1‑year, and long‑term mortality rates were the highest in CKD patients, reaching 33.3% in long‑term follow‑up. Predictors of death in a multivariate analysis were body mass index, ejection fraction, and serum creatinine concentrations. Conclusions CKD is a novel and still underestimated risk factor for TTS. It may trigger TTS but, more importantly, it adversely affects the outcomes. Thus, it is important to assess kidney function in all patients with TTS to evaluate the risk of morbidity and mortality in follow‑up, as well as to adjust drug doses and implement preventive measures to avoid CI‑AKI when coronary angiography or contrast‑enhanced computed tomography is performed.

According to the guidelines and experts’ opinion, chronic kidney disease can be diagnosed when estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) is lower than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and such a filtration rate lasts for more than 3 months. Impaired kidney function accelerates the progress of atherosclerosis, significantly increases the risk of adverse cardiovascular events and worsens prognosis in patients with cardiac diseases. This risk increases in patients with slightly decreased renal function but increases drastically in patients on regular dialysis [1–3].

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is associated with the occurrence of cryptogenic strokes in young patients. Transesophageal echocardiography with contrast is the established standard in PFO diagnostics. We present the case of a 44-year-old female patient after ischemic stroke, in whom PFO was not detected by echocardiography; the defect was ultimately diagnosed by right heart catheterization.

Coronary artery disease in patients with end-stage renal disease occurs several dozen times more often than in the general population. Atherosclerotic changes in coronary arteries in dialysed patients are more diffused and calcified, which hampers the percutaneous coronary angioplasty. We present a case of an 84-year-old dialysed patient, in whom complex percutaneous coronary intervention of the left anterior descending artery was performed with the use of rotational atherectomy.

Background: Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), a widely accepted diagnostic marker of acute renal injury (AKI) may be involved in the development of atherosclerosis. Purpose: To assess the prognostic significance of serum and urinary NGAL and serum cystatin C in patients with stable angina undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) on a 3-year follow-up. Methods: We included patients with stable angina undergoing PCI. Serum NGAL and cystatin C were evaluated before and 4h, 8h after PCI. Urinary NGAL was evaluated before and 12h and 24h after the procedure. The primary end-point was all-cause mortality on a 3-year follow-up. Results: Among 132 patients there were 63% of males (mean age 64,5±9,8 years). Mean eGFR was 86.2±28.5 ml/min. During follow-up 8% of the patients died. All-cause mortality was significantly higher in patients with increased urinary NGAL concentration 12h after PCI (p=0.04). Urinary NGAL 12h after PCI correlated with eGFR (pConclusions: Increased urinary NGAL concentration is a strong predictor of mortality in patients with stable angina who undergo PCI and may be used for the risk stratification in this population.

A 74-year-old woman, without a history of cardiological problems or risk factors of cardiovascular diseases, was admitted to the emergency room of our hospital after 2 h of chest pain. During the transport, the patient received 5000 U of unfractionated heparin, aspirin (300 mg) and clopidogrel (600 mg). The patient had suffered from an anxiety syndrome for several years. At admission, the patient was in a serious condition generally, was vomiting, and had severe chest pain with signs of cardiogenic shock (skin pale and wet, blood presure (BP) and heart rate (HR) undetectable). Electrocardiogram demonstrated a sinus rhythm of 58 per minute with QS complex and ST segment elevation in precordial leads (V2–V6). Laboratory results revealed increased troponin I concentration (2.041 ng/ml). Following hemodynamic stabilization, the patient was transported to the catheterization laboratory. Coronarography did not reveal any significant stenosis. Left ventricle angiography (LVA) showed normal volume with contractile disturbances of apex and hyperkinesis of the basement segments, with ejection fraction (EF) of 56%. Contrast outflow to the epicardium was observed within the area of the apex, through the perforated wall of the left ventricle (Figures 1 A–C). Echo confirmed the presence of fluid in the pericardium and cardiac tamponade. The patient was supported with intra-aortic balloon contra-pulsation and transported to the cardiac surgery for urgent intervention. During transport, the patient lost consciousness. After urgent cardiac tamponade decompression, the pulse and arterial pressure increased. Active bleeding through the ruptured left ventricle was observed in the area of the apex during the operation. Left ventricular plication with sutures on a double layered Teflon pad was performed. The lines of the sutures were conducted through healthy tissues. Examination of the supported ruptured region showed left ventricle tightness and complete hemostasis. No significant complications were observed during the perioperative period. On the first day after the operation the patient was extubated, and on the fifth day the intra-aortic balloon contra-pulsation was removed. The patient was transported to the regional hospital on day 11 to continue the therapeutic and rehabilitation procedures. A discharge echocardiogram revealed akinesis of the apex and hypokinesis of the septum, with an EF of 50%. The patient was under cardiosurgical follow-up for the next 3 months. She was in good general condition without any chest pain, and the wounds from the sternotomy were healing properly. In a 2.5-year long study the patient was in good condition and the echocardiogram conformed normokinesis of the left ventricle apex. She has been treated with bisoprolol 5 mg and aspirin 75 mg since hospitalization. Figure 1 A – ventriculography (left ventricular systole – normal volume of the left ventricle, contractile disturbances of the apex and hyperkinesis of the basement segments), B – ventriculography (left ventricular diastole), C – ... Most cases of takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) have a good prognosis. However, occasionally the clinical outcome is complicated by cardiogenic shock, serious ventricular rhythm abnormalities or even cardiac rupture [1–3]. The mechanism of cardiac rupture in TTC is not as well understood as the causes of mechanical complications in other cases without significant coronary artery stenosis, i.e. dissolving thrombus, embolization, vessel spasm and myocardial bridging [4]. According to Kumar et al. [1] the risk factors for cardiac rupture in takotsubo patients are female gender, older age, persistent ST elevation, ST elevations in inferior leads (especially in II), higher systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure, low EF and LV peak systolic pressure. The present case provides evidence of the significance of monitoring patients during the first days of the TTC syndrome. Only immediate diagnosis and urgent cardiosurgical intervention leads to a favorable prognosis in patients with TTC cardiomyopathy complicated by cardiac rupture.

Background Results of regular drug-eluting stents (rDESs) in bifurcation treatment are not optimal. The aim of the Pol ish B ifurcation O ptimal S tenting I (POLBOS I) trial was to compare bifurcation treatment with any rDES vs the dedicated bifurcation paclitaxel-eluting stent BiOSS Expert (Balton, Poland). The second aim was to study the effect of final kissing balloon (FKB) inflation on clinical outcomes. Methods Between October 2010 and January 2013 patients with stable coronary artery disease or non–ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome were assigned 1:1 to 1 of 2 treatment strategies: BiOSS Expert stent or rDES implantation. Coronary angiography was performed at 12 months. The primary end point was a composite of cardiac-related death, myocardial infarction (MI), and target lesion revascularization (TLR) at 12 months. Results The BiOSS Expert was implanted in 120 patients (49.4%), and an rDES was implanted in 123 patients. The target vessel was the left anterior descending (LAD) artery (52% vs 70%) followed by the left main stem (LMS) coronary artery (22% vs 15%). In the rDES group, 38.2% received paclitaxel-eluting stents. There were 3 stent implantation failures (2 in the rDES group and 1 in the BiOSS Expert group). Side branch treatment with an rDES was required in 10% of cases in both groups. At 12 months, the incidence of cumulative major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) was similar in both groups: 13.3% vs 12.2% ( P = 0.7). The TLR rate was significantly higher in the BiOSS Expert group compared with the rDES group (11.5% vs 7.3%; P = 0.02). Significantly lower rates of restenosis were observed in FKB subgroups of both the BiOSS Expert (8.1% vs 13.2%; P P Conclusions MACE rates were comparable between the 2 groups; however, the TLR rate was higher in the BiOSS Expert group. A more aggressive protocol yielded better angiographic and clinical outcomes.

Background: Left main stenosis (LMS) occurs in 5–7% of patients with coronary artery disease. Half of patients with left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease die within few years after the diagnosis. Aim: To evaluate survival of patients with LMCA disease treated with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), or managed medically due to lack of consent for CABG or being considered unsuitable candidatesfor CABG/PCI. Methods: In 2006–2008, a significant LMS was found in 257 (5.14%) patients, and 98.44% of these patients were followed upfor on average 15.1 months. The patients were divided into 5 groups according to the treatment used. CABG was performedin 67% of patients, PCI of an unprotected LMS in 8% of patients, and 12% of patients were treated with PCI after a previous CABG (protected LMS). The remaining patients were managed medically: 4% were not considered suitable for CABG, and9% did not give their consent for CABG. Results: Total mortality in the overall study group (n = 253) was 14.6%. Multivessel disease was more frequent in the CABG group (60.9% vs. 15.8%, p < 0.001). Mortality in CABG and PCI groups was comparable (11.4% vs. 15.8%). Patients in the PCI group were more frequently hospitalised due to recurrent angina (21.1% vs. 3.0%, p < 0.001) and the need for repeated revascularisation (15.8% vs. 1.2%, p < 0.001). Compared to the CABG group, patients considered not suitable for CABG hadlower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (36.55% vs. 51.04%, p < 0.001) and a higher mortality risk as estimated by the EuroScore. Mortality among patients deemed unsuitable for CABG was 54.6% (p < 0.001) and myocardial infarctions were observed more frequently in this group (18.2% vs. 2.4%, p < 0.01). In comparison to the CABG group, patients who did not consent to CABG were older (71.04 vs. 65.99 years, p = 0.027), had lower LVEF (44.05% vs. 51.04%, p = 0.004), were less frequently hospitalised due to acute coronary syndromes (17.4% vs. 40.8%, p = 0.03), and had a smaller degree of LMS (63%vs. 71%, p = 0.027). Mortality in this group was comparable to the CABG group (17.4% vs. 11.4%). The majority of patients who underwent previous CABG needed repeated revascularisation: PCI of a protected LMS was performed in 27% of patients,PCI of other native coronary arteries in 39% of patients, and PCI of a bypass graft in 7% of patients. Conclusions: PCI of unprotected LMCA may be an equally effective revascularisation method as CABG. High mortality (55%) due to concomitant diseases was observed among patients with LMS who were deemed unsuitable candidates for CABG. Prognosis among patients who declined CABG was relatively good and might have been related to the small number of patients and different patient characteristics in this group.

Left main disease (LMD) is a severe form of coronary artery disease (CAD). Fifty percent of patients with LMD treated conservatively die within 3-5 years of diagnosis. The aim of the study was to assess the influence of type 2 diabetes on early and late (2-year) prognosis and the risk of complications after coronary artery by-pass graft (CABG) surgery in patients with LMD.We enrolled 257 patients diagnosed with LMD. 169 (67%) underwent CABG, 19 (8%) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) without left main stem protection. 30 (12%) patients had CABG previously. Patients treated with CABG were divided into two groups - with and without diabetes. There were 43 (25.4%) patients with diabetes and 126 (74.6%) without diabetes.We observed more complications with wound healing (40.5% vs. 12.8%, p0.001) and sternal dehiscence (23.8% vs. 4.0%, p0.001) after CABG in patients with diabetes. There were no differences in 7-day, 30-day, 3-month and 1-year mortality. 2-Year mortality was also similar in both groups (11.6% vs. 11.1%, p=0.928). Patients with diabetes were more frequently hospitalized due to other reasons than angina (39.5% vs. 20.6%, p=0.014).Patients with diabetes and LMD had more often complications with wound healing and sternal dehiscence after CABG than patients without diabetes. Type 2 diabetes did not influence early and late mortality in patients with LMD treated with cardiac surgery, but the presence of diabetes was associated with more frequent hospitalizations.