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- Engström, Gunnar, et al.
(author)
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Pulmonary function and atherosclerosis in the general population : causal associations and clinical implications
- 2024
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In: European Journal of Epidemiology. - : Springer Nature. - 0393-2990 .- 1573-7284. ; 39:1, s. 35-49
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Reduced lung function is associated with cardiovascular mortality, but the relationships with atherosclerosis are unclear. The population-based Swedish CArdioPulmonary BioImage study measured lung function, emphysema, coronary CT angiography, coronary calcium, carotid plaques and ankle-brachial index in 29,593 men and women aged 50–64 years. The results were confirmed using 2-sample Mendelian randomization. Lower lung function and emphysema were associated with more atherosclerosis, but these relationships were attenuated after adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors. Lung function was not associated with coronary atherosclerosis in 14,524 never-smokers. No potentially causal effect of lung function on atherosclerosis, or vice versa, was found in the 2-sample Mendelian randomization analysis. Here we show that reduced lung function and atherosclerosis are correlated in the population, but probably not causally related. Assessing lung function in addition to conventional cardiovascular risk factors to gauge risk of subclinical atherosclerosis is probably not meaningful, but low lung function found by chance should alert for atherosclerosis.
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- Alfredsson, Joakim, 1962-, et al.
(author)
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Bleeding complications with clopidogrel or ticagrelor in ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients : A real life cohort study of two treatment strategies
- 2020
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In: IJC Heart & Vasculature. - : Elsevier. - 2352-9067. ; 27
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- IntroductionDual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), including potent P2Y12 inhibition after ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is recommended in clinical guidelines. However, bleeding complications are common, and associated with worse outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess incidence of bleeding events with a clopidogrel-based compared to a ticagrelor-based DAPT strategy, in a real world population. Secondary aims were to assess ischemic complications and mortality.Methods and ResultsWe identified 330 consecutive STEMI patients with a clopidogrel-based and 330 with a ticagrelor-based DAPT strategy. Patientś medical records were searched for bleeding and ischemic complications, over 6 months follow-up.The two groups were well balanced in baseline characteristics, age (69 years inboth groups), sex (31% vs 32% females), history of diabetes (19% vs 21%), hypertension (43% in both) and MI (17% vs 15%). There was no difference in CRUSADE bleeding score (28 vs 29). After discharge, there were more than twice as many bleeding events with a ticagrelor-based compared with a clopidogrel-based strategy (13.3% vs. 6.5%, p = 0.005). Bleeding events included significantly more severe bleeding complications (TIMI major/minor [5.8 vs 1.0, p = 0.001]) during the ticagrelor-based period. There was no significant difference in the composite of death, MI or stroke (7.8% vs 7.1%, p = 0.76).ConclusionsIn this observational study, a ticagrelor-based DAPT strategy was associated with significantly more bleeding complications, without any significant change in death, MI or stroke. Larger studies are needed to determine whether bleeding complications off-sets benefits with a more potent DAPT strategy in older and more comorbid real-life patients.
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- Collet, Jean-Philippe, et al.
(author)
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Impact of age on the effect of pre-hospital P2Y12 receptor inhibition in primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction : the ATLANTIC-Elderly analysis
- 2018
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In: EuroIntervention. - Toulouse, France : Europa Digital & Publishing. - 1774-024X .- 1969-6213. ; 14:7, s. 789-797
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- AIMS: The aim of the study was to examine the main results of the ATLANTIC trial in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), randomised to pre- versus in-hospital ticagrelor, according to age.METHODS AND RESULTS: Patients were evaluated by age class (<75 vs. ≥75 years) for demographics, prior cardiovascular history, risk factors, management, and outcomes. Elderly patients (≥75 years; 304/1,862) were more likely to be women, diabetic, lean, with a prior history of myocardial infarction and CABG, and with comorbidities (p<0.01 for all). Elderly patients presented more frequently with acute heart failure and less frequently had thromboaspiration, a stent implanted (p<0.01) and an aggressive antithrombotic regimen. Elderly patients had lower rates of pre- and post-PCI ≥70% ST-segment elevation resolution (43.9% vs. 51.6%; p=0.035), of pre- and post-PCI TIMI 3 flow (17.1% vs. 27.5%, p=0.0002), and a higher rate of the composite of death/MI/stroke/urgent revascularisation (9.9% vs. 2.9%; OR 3.67, 95% CI [2.27; 5.93], p<0.0001) and mortality (8.5% vs. 1.5%; OR 6.45, 95% CI [2.75; 15.11], p<0.0001). There was a non-significant trend towards more frequent major bleedings among elderly patients (TIMI major 2.3% vs. 1.1%; OR 2.13, 95% CI [0.88; 5.18], p=0.095). There was no significant interaction between time of ticagrelor administration (pre-hospital versus in-lab) and class of age for all outcomes.CONCLUSIONS: Elderly patients, who represented one sixth of the patients randomised in the ATLANTIC trial, had less successful mechanical reperfusion and a sixfold increase in mortality at 30 days, probably due to comorbidities and possible undertreatment. The effect of early ticagrelor was consistent irrespective of age.
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- Ekerstad, Niklas, 1969-, et al.
(author)
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Clinical frailty scale – skörhet ärett sätt att skatta biologisk ålder : [Clinical Frailty Scale - a proxy estimate of biological age]
- 2022
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In: Läkartidningen. - : Sveriges Läkarforbund. - 0023-7205 .- 1652-7518. ; 119
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Research review (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The term frailty denotes a multi-dimensional syndrome characterised by reduced physiological reserves and increased vulnerability. Frailty may be used as a marker of biological age, distinct from chronological age. There are several instruments for frailty assessment. The Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) is probably the most commonly used in the acute care context. It is a 9-level scale, derived from the accumulated deficit model of frailty, which combines comorbidity, disability, and cognitive impairment. The CFS assessment is fast and easy to implement in daily clinical practice. The CFS is relevant for risk stratification, and may also be used as a screening instrument to identify frail patients suitable for further geriatric evaluation, i.e. a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA). By providing information on long-term prognosis, it may improve informed decision-making on an individual basis.
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12. |
- Henriksson, Lilian, et al.
(author)
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The transluminal attenuation gradient does not add diagnostic accuracy to coronary computed tomography
- 2021
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In: Acta Radiologica. - : Sage Publications. - 0284-1851 .- 1600-0455. ; , s. 867-874
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background A method for improving the accuracy of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is highly sought after as it would help to avoid unnecessary invasive coronary angiographies. Measurement of the transluminal attenuation gradient (TAG) has been proposed as an alternative to other existing methods, i.e. CT perfusion and CT fractional flow reserve (FFR). Purpose To evaluate the incremental value of three types of TAG in high-pitch spiral CCTA with invasive FFR measurements as reference. Material and Methods TAG was measured using two semi-automatic methods and one manual method. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was made to determine the usefulness of TAG alone as well as TAG combined with CCTA for detection of significant coronary artery stenoses defined by an invasive FFR value <= 0.80. Results A total of 51 coronary vessels in 37 patients were included in this retrospective study. Hemodynamically significant stenoses were found in 13 vessels according to FFR. The ROC analysis TAG alone resulted in areas under the curve (AUCs) of 0.530 and 0.520 for the semi-automatic TAG and 0.557 for the manual TAG. TAG and CCTA combined resulted in AUCs of 0.567, 0.562 for semi-automatic TAG, and 0.569 for the manual TAG. Conclusion The results from our study showed no incremental value of TAG measured in single heartbeat CCTA in determining the severity of coronary artery stenosis degrees.
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- Holm, Anna, 1973-, et al.
(author)
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Long term risk and costs of bleeding in men and women treated with triple antithrombotic therapy : An observational study
- 2021
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In: PLOS ONE. - : Public Library of Science. - 1932-6203. ; 16:3
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives Bleeding is the most common non-ischemic complication in patients with coronary revascularisation procedures, associated with prolonged hospitalisation and increased mortality. Many factors predispose for bleeds in these patients, among those sex. Anyhow, few studies have characterised the population receiving triple antithrombotic therapy (TAT) as well as long term bleeds from a sex perspective. We investigated the one year rate of bleeds in patients receiving TAT, potential sex disparities and premature discontinuation of TAT. We also assessed health care costs in bleeders vs non-bleeders. Setting Three hospitals in the County of ostergotland, Sweden during 2009-2015. Participants All patients discharged with TAT registered in the SWEDEHEART registry. Primary and secondary outcome measures All bleeds receiving medical attention during one-year follow-up were collected by retrieving relevant information about each patient from medical records. Resource use associated with bleeds was assigned unit cost to estimate the health care costs associated with bleeding episodes. Results Among 272 patients, 156 bleeds occurred post-discharge, of which 28.8% were gastrointestinal. In total 54.4% had at least one bleed during or after the index event and 40.1% bled post discharge of whom 28.7% experienced a TIMI major or minor bleeding. Women discontinued TAT prematurely more often than men (52.9 vs 36.1%, p = 0.01) and bled more (48.6 vs. 37.1%, p = 0.09). One-year mean health care costs were EUR 575 and EUR 5787 in non-bleeding and bleeding patients, respectively. Conclusion The high bleeding incidence in patients with TAT, especially in women, is a cause of concern. There is a need for an adequately sized randomised, controlled trial to determine a safe but still effective treatment for these patients.
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- Holm, Anna, 1973-, et al.
(author)
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Sex differences in platelet reactivity in patients with myocardial infarction treated with triple antiplatelet therapy-results from assessing platelet activity in coronary heart disease (APACHE)
- 2021
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In: Platelets. - : Taylor & Francis. - 0953-7104 .- 1369-1635. ; 32:1, s. 524-532
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- )Several earlier studies have reported increased risk of bleeding in women with myocardial infarction, (MI) compared to men. The reasons for the observed difference are incompletely understood, but one suggested explanation has been excess dosing of antithrombotic drugs in women. The aim of this prospective observational study was to assess sex differences in platelet activity in patients treated with three different platelet inhibitors. We recruited 125 patients (37 women and 88 men) with MI, scheduled for coronary angiography. All patients received clopidogrel and aspirin. A subgroup of patients received glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa-inhibitor. Platelet aggregation in whole blood was assessed at several time points, using impedance aggregometry. SolubleP-selectin was measured 3 days after admission. There were no significant differences between women and men in baseline features or comorbidities except higher frequency of diabetes, lower hemoglobin value, and lower estimated glomerular filtration rate, in women on admission. We observed significantly more in-hospital bleeding events in women compared to men (18.9% vs. 6.8%,p= .04). There were no differences in platelet aggregation using three different agonists, reflecting treatment effect of GPIIb/IIIa-inhibitors, clopidogrel, and aspirin, 6-8 hours, 3 days, 7-9 days, or 6 months after loading dose. Moreover, there was no significant difference in solubleP-selectin. The main finding of this study was a consistent lack of difference between the sexes in platelet aggregation, using three different agonists at several time-points. Our results do not support excess dosing of anti-platelet drugs as a major explanation for increased bleeding risk in women.
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- Janzon, Magnus, 1961-, et al.
(author)
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Cost-effectiveness of an invasive strategy in unstable coronary artery disease : results from the FRISC II invasive trial
- 2002
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In: European Heart Journal. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0195-668X .- 1522-9645. ; 23:1, s. 31-40
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Aims The utilization and timing of revascularization in unstable coronary artery disease varies, which could have important consequences for patients and for treatment costs. The FRISC II invasive trial compared an early invasive strategy vs a non-invasive strategy with respect to the composite end-point of death and myocardial infarction as well as costs.Methods and Results A total of 2457 patients, median age 66 years, comprising 70% men, were randomized. We prospectively recorded the patients' use of the health service. The results were analysed in a societal perspective. There was a significant 1·7% absolute reduction in deaths and a 3·7% absolute reduction in deaths and myocardial infarctions in the invasive compared to the non-invasive group after 12 months. During the initial hospitalization a patient in the invasive group spent on average 3·9 more days in hospital than a patient in the non-invasive group. Opposite results were found for rehospitalizations. The difference in mean total costs is SEK 23 876 (P<0·001). The incermental cost-effective ratio for choosing the invasive instead of the non-invasive strategy is SEK 1 404 000 per avoided death and SEK 645 000 per avoided death or myocardial infarctionConclusion The high cost at the beginning of the invasive strategy is substantial. The clinical results of the FRISC II study provided evidence that the invasive strategy reduces the rate of death and myocardial infarction in patients with unstable coronary artery disease. For policy discussions concerning whether or not to implement the invasive strategy, these positive results should be balanced against the cost-consequences of the strategy.
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- Janzon, Magnus, 1961-, et al.
(author)
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Cost effectiveness of extended treatment with low molecular weight heparin (dalteparin) in unstable coronary artery disease : results from the FRISC II trial
- 2003
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In: Heart. - : BMJ. - 1355-6037 .- 1468-201X .- 0007-0769. ; 89:3, s. 287-292
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: In unstable coronary artery disease short term treatment with low molecular weight heparin in addition to aspirin has been shown to be effective.Objective: To assess the cost effectiveness of extended treatment with dalteparin in patients managed with a non-invasive treatment strategy.Design: Prospective, randomised, multicentre study.Setting: 58 centres in Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, of which 16 were interventional.Patients: After at least five days’ treatment with open label dalteparin, 2267 patients were randomised to continue double blind treatment with either subcutaneous dalteparin twice daily or placebo for three months. The patients’ use of health service resources was recorded prospectively.Main outcome measure: Death/myocardial infarction.Results: After one month into the double blind period there was a 47% relative reduction in death or myocardial infarction in the dalteparin group compared with the placebo group (p = 0.002). There was a non-significant mean cost difference, favouring the placebo group, of 849 Swedish crowns (SEK) per patient (equivalent to £58). The incremental cost effectiveness ratio for giving dalteparin treatment for one month was SEK 30 300 (range −78 000 to 139 000) (£2060, range −£5300 to £9400) per avoided death or myocardial infarct. At three months, the decrease in death or myocardial infarction was not significant, precluding cost effectiveness analyses.Conclusions: There is a marginal and non-significant increase in costs for one month of extended dalteparin treatment compared with placebo. Extended dalteparin treatment lowers the risk of death or myocardial infarction in patients with unstable coronary artery disease. While in many countries the resources for early intervention are limited, extended dalteparin treatment up to one month is a cost effective bridge to invasive intervention.
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- Janzon, Magnus, 1961-, et al.
(author)
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Invasive treatment in unstable coronary artery disease promotes health-related quality of life : results from the FRISC II trial
- 2004
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In: American Heart Journal. - : Elsevier BV. - 0002-8703 .- 1097-6744. ; 148:1, s. 114-121
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BackgroundTreatment strategies, either invasive or noninvasive, for patients with unstable coronary artery disease still vary. There are no published studies comparing the strategies for health-related quality of life.MethodsA total of 2457 patients with unstable coronary artery disease were randomized. We prospectively recorded the patients' health-related quality of life using 2 questionnaires, the generic Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36) and the disease-specific Angina Pectoris Quality of Life Questionnaire (APQLQ), at randomization and after 3, 6, and 12 months of follow-up.ResultsThere was a high response rate (92%) at randomization, with 2251 respondents. The invasively treated group showed a significantly better quality of life in all 8 scales and both component scores at the 3- and 6-month follow-up (P <.01) than the noninvasively treated group. These differences remained at the 12-month follow-up, with significance in 7 of the scales and in the physical component score. The disease-specific quality of life results were similar until the 6-month follow-up. At randomization, the unstable population showed a remarkably lower quality of life in all 8 scales and the component scores compared with an age- and sex-matched normative population.ConclusionsPatients receiving early invasive intervention after an unstable episode had substantial improvement in health-related quality of life until the 1-year follow-up, compared with patients receiving noninvasive treatment. Health-related quality of life in an unstable coronary artery disease population is remarkably lower than in a matched normative population.
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- Janzon, Magnus, 1961-
(author)
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Novel Strategies for the Management of STEMI
- 2007
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In: Kardiologen, US som ett led i vår utmärkelse Center of Excellence Europé 2007 möte med läkare från Holland,2007.
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Conference paper (other academic/artistic)
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- Janzon, Magnus, 1961-
(author)
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Treatment strategies in unstable coronary artery disease : economic and quality of life evaluations
- 2003
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- During the past few decades two treatment strategies have evolved for patients with unstable coronary artery disease (UCAD). The non-invasive strategy uses clinical investigations and non-invasive stress tests to identify patients who need diagnostic catheterisation. The early invasive strategy uses coronary catheterisation as the diagnostic instrument. The new technologies have consequences not only for the clinical endpoints of death or myocardial infarction (MI), but also in terms of health-related quality of life and costs. The economic evaluations are of great importance due to the high incidence of the disease and high short-term costs of the invasive strategy. The early costly intervention may prevent later complications and thereby partly or completely offset the higher initial treatment costs. Even if longterm costs remain higher, they can be justified by improved survival or quality of life. Such clinical effects in the long-term follow-up need to be seen in relation to the cost of the strategy. In a prospective Scandinavian multi centre trial we examined 3489 patients with UCAD. The purpose of this thesis was to study the treatment strategies in UCAD with respect to cost-effectiveness and patients' health-related quality of life. This purpose was divided into four aims:The first aim was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of extended treatment with the low-molecular-weight heparin dalteparin. 2267 patients were randomised. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for administering dalteparin treatment for one month was SEK 30,300 per avoided death or MI. Since the resources for early intervention are limited in many countries, extended dalteparin treatment for up to one month is a cost-effective bridge to invasive intervention.The second aim was to evaluate the short-term costs and cost-effectiveness of the invasive strategy compared to the non-invasive strategy. A total of 2457 patients were randomised. The results were analysed in a societal perspective. The difference in mean total costs after one year was SEK 23,900 (p < 0.001), favouring the non-invasive strategy. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for choosing the invasive instead of the non-invasive strategy was SEK 645,000 per avoided death or MI. The high cost at the beginning of the invasive strategy was substantial. For policy discussions concerning implementing the invasive strategy, these positive results should be balanced against the cost-consequences of the strategy.The third aim was to evaluate the patients' health-related quality of life with respect to the strategies. We used two questionnaires, the generic Short Form 36 (SF-36) and the disease-specific Angina Pectoris Quality of Life Questionnaire (APQLQ), at randomisation and after three, six and 12 months of followup. The invasively treated group showed a significantly better health-related quality of life at the threeand six-month follow-ups (p < 0.01) than the non-invasively treated group. These differences remained at the 12-month follow-up. The disease-specific quality of life results were similar.The fourth aim was to evaluate the long-term cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of these strategies. Results were analysed in both a societal and a health care provider perspective. The difference in mean total cost SEK 11,400 was not statistically significant. The estimated cost per quality adjusted life year (QALY) gained for the invasive strategy, based on within trial results and projected life expectancy, was SEK 22,900. These results were consistent in most subgroups. The estimated cost per life year gained was SEK 57,700. Compared to other accepted treatments in the cardiovascular field, the cost per QALY gained is very low.In summary, this thesis shows that the early invasive treatment strategy for patients with UCAD promotes health-related quality of life and is highly cost-effective when compared to many other interventions in the cardiovascular field and should therefore be recommended.
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- Johannesen, Kasper, et al.
(author)
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Subcategorizing the Expected Value of Perfect Implementation to Identify When and Where to Invest in Implementation Initiatives
- 2020
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In: Medical decision making. - : Sage Publications. - 0272-989X .- 1552-681X. ; 40:3, s. 327-338
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Purpose. Clinical practice variations and low implementation of effective and cost-effective health care technologies are a key challenge for health care systems and may lead to suboptimal treatment and health loss for patients. The purpose of this work was to subcategorize the expected value of perfect implementation (EVPIM) to enable estimation of the absolute and relative value of eliminating slow, low, and delayed implementation. Methods. Building on the EVPIM framework, this work defines EVPIM subcategories to estimate the expected value of eliminating slow, low, or delayed implementation. The work also shows how information on regional implementation patterns can be used to estimate the value of eliminating regional implementation variation. The application of this subcategorization is illustrated by a case study of the implementation of an antiplatelet therapy for the secondary prevention after myocardial infarction in Sweden. Incremental net benefit (INB) estimates are based on published cost-effectiveness assessments and a threshold of SEK 250,000 (22,300) pound per quality-adjusted life year (QALY). Results. In the case study, slow, low, and delayed implementation was estimated to represent 22%, 34%, and 44% of the total population EVPIM (2941 QALYs or SEK 735 million), respectively. The value of eliminating implementation variation across health care regions was estimated to 39% of total EVPIM (1138 QALYs). Conclusion. Subcategorizing EVPIM estimates the absolute and relative value of eliminating different parts of suboptimal implementation. By doing so, this approach could help decision makers to identify which parts of suboptimal implementation are contributing most to total EVPIM and provide the basis for assessing the cost and benefit of implementation activities that may address these in future implementation of health care interventions.
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- Johannesen, Kasper, 1982-
(author)
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The value of evaluating and implementing pharmaceuticals
- 2021
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Pharmaceuticals are a central part of high-quality health care and a resource for improving population health. However, high prices set by private companies who develop and own the rights to new pharmaceuticals question the value that they contribute to the health care system. Publicly funded health care systems need to get the most from limited health care resources, which has become even more apparent in recent years with ageing populations, rapid technological development, and more recently the impact of COVID-19. Reducing pharmaceutical prices increase the current value that they offer to health care systems, but price reduction also decreases incentives to develop future treatments. Hence, the health care systems must balance the objective of improving the value from the treatments available today and incentivising the development of future treatments. Governments and health care decision makers use a variety of policies to control prices and use of pharmaceuticals. However, these policies are rarely the focus of formal analysis and their effect on short- and long-term population health is often unclear. The aim of this thesis was to investigate how policies that control pharmaceutical prices and implementation impact population health and incentives for pharmaceutical research and development (R&D). The first study in this thesis outlines a framework for assessing the effect of pharmaceutical policies on population health and pharmaceutical earnings and shows that price reducing policies can increase the current value of pharmaceuticals to health care systems while lowering R&D incentives. The design of specific policies determines the impact as well as the distribution of the gains of lower prices across patients, health care providers, pharmacies, and other affected parties. The second study analyses the trade-off between accuracy and cost of the cost-effectiveness appraisals for pharmaceuticals by viewing it as a diagnostic test that aims to identify costeffective treatments. The study identifies some policy relevant conclusions, including that the process should be flexible over time and depend on characteristics of the treatment undergoing assessment. Study three, investigating the impact of regional implementation variation of the antiplatelet ticagrelor, found that an additional 1,100 Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALYs) could have been gained from achieving equal implementation across health care regions. This represents a value of SEK 285 million from avoiding regional implementation variation of ticagrelor (given a value of SEK 250,000 per QALY). The study also shows that avoiding delays due to sequential decisions on reimbursement, treatment guidelines, and funding could have significant value. Finally, the fourth study investigates the comparative effectiveness of ticagrelor using observational data collected as part of routine clinical care in the SWEDEHEART registry. The study finds similar reduction in mortality as observed in the pivotal randomised clinical trial of ticagrelor, the PLATO trial. Furthermore, the importance of appropriate methods for observational research on comparative effectiveness are demonstrated, highlighting the importance of using appropriate methods when investigating the effectiveness of treatments used in clinical practice. In conclusion, this thesis shows the importance of analysing and understanding the effect of policies that control price and implementation of pharmaceuticals, whether the goal is to maximise the value from currently available pharmaceuticals or to also incentivise the development of new pharmaceuticals. Although the value of improving implementation may not be as obvious or tangible as savings from lowering pharmaceutical prices, improving implementation may contribute more to population health than reinvesting potential savings from price reductions.
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- Sandstedt, Mårten, 1972-
(author)
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Computed Tomography of the Coronary Arteries : Developmental and Prognostic Investigations
- 2020
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Doctoral thesis (other academic/artistic)abstract
- Computed tomography (CT) is an increasingly used modality for investigations of patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Technical advances could improve diagnostic accuracy and lead to clinical workflow improvements. Also, more prognostic information can optimize clinical follow-up strategies and treatments.The general aim of this thesis was to explore the use of CT for CAD investigations. Three studies aimed to examine new technologies, including the evaluation of an on-site, computed tomography-based fractional flow reserve (CT-FFR) software (study I), the evaluation of an AI-based, calcium scoring computed tomography (CSCT) software (study III), and the evaluation of an photon-counting detector (PCD)-CT (study IV). One study aimed to evaluate the long-term prognostic value of coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) in symptomatic patients with no history of CAD (study II).The software evaluation studies (study I and III) and the prognostic study (study II) utilized CT data from clinical patients, while the PCD-CT evaluation study (study IV) used CT data from cadaveric specimens. The performances of both software programs were compared with standard references, being represented by fractional flow reserve (FFR) measurements (study I), and coronary artery calcification (CAC) scores from a semi-automatic software (study III), respectively. The PCD-CT performance on CAC quantification was compared with corresponding results from an energy integrating detector (EID)-CT, using micro-CT as the standard reference (study IV). The prognostic study merged registries to identify major adverse cardiac events (MACE), having a follow-up time of up to 7.5 years (study II).The CT-FFR and CSCT software correlation and agreement to corresponding standard references were good and excellent, respectively. Also, both software programs had time-saving potential (study I and III). The CAC quantification was more accurate using PCD-CT than EID-CT (study IV). The prognosis was excellent in patients with normal coronary arteries, and progressively impaired in non-obstructive and obstructive CAD (study II).The results in this thesis convey developmental, technical CT technology advances for CAD investigations. In addition, prognostic follow-up data is communicated. The results may benefit patients by an increased accuracy in the CT evaluation of CAD and can contribute to improve clinical follow-up strategies. Furthermore, the results suggest possibilities to improve the workflow in clinical radiology, which potentially could impact health care costs.
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- Sandstedt, Mårten, 1972-, et al.
(author)
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Evaluation of an AI-based, automatic coronary artery calcium scoring software
- 2020
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In: European Radiology. - : Springer. - 0938-7994 .- 1432-1084. ; 30:3, s. 1671-1678
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- ObjectivesTo evaluate an artificial intelligence (AI)–based, automatic coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring software, using a semi-automatic software as a reference.MethodsThis observational study included 315 consecutive, non-contrast-enhanced calcium scoring computed tomography (CSCT) scans. A semi-automatic and an automatic software obtained the Agatston score (AS), the volume score (VS), the mass score (MS), and the number of calcified coronary lesions. Semi-automatic and automatic analysis time were registered, including a manual double-check of the automatic results. Statistical analyses were Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient (⍴), intra-class correlation (ICC), Bland Altman plots, weighted kappa analysis (κ), and Wilcoxon signed-rank test.ResultsThe correlation and agreement for the AS, VS, and MS were ⍴ = 0.935, 0.932, 0.934 (p < 0.001), and ICC = 0.996, 0.996, 0.991, respectively (p < 0.001). The correlation and agreement for the number of calcified lesions were ⍴ = 0.903 and ICC = 0.977 (p < 0.001), respectively. The Bland Altman mean difference and 1.96 SD upper and lower limits of agreements for the AS, VS, and MS were − 8.2 (− 115.1 to 98.2), − 7.4 (− 93.9 to 79.1), and − 3.8 (− 33.6 to 25.9), respectively. Agreement in risk category assignment was 89.5% and κ = 0.919 (p < 0.001). The median time for the semi-automatic and automatic method was 59 s (IQR 35–100) and 36 s (IQR 29–49), respectively (p < 0.001).ConclusionsThere was an excellent correlation and agreement between the automatic software and the semi-automatic software for three CAC scores and the number of calcified lesions. Risk category classification was accurate but showing an overestimation bias tendency. Also, the automatic method was less time-demanding.Key Points• Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring is an excellent candidate for artificial intelligence (AI) development in a clinical setting.• An AI-based, automatic software obtained CAC scores with excellent correlation and agreement compared with a conventional method but was less time-consuming.
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- Sandstedt, Mårten, et al.
(author)
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Long-term prognostic value of coronary computed tomography angiography in chest pain patients.
- 2019
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In: Acta Radiologica. - : SAGE Publications. - 0284-1851 .- 1600-0455. ; 60:1, s. 45-53
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is increasingly used to detect coronary artery disease (CAD), but long-term follow-up studies are still scarce. Purpose To evaluate the prognostic value of CCTA in patients with suspected CAD. Material and Methods A total of 1205 consecutive CCTA patients with chest pain were classified as normal coronary arteries, non-obstructive CAD, or obstructive CAD. The primary outcome was major adverse cardiac event (MACE), defined as a composite outcome including cardiac death, myocardial infarction, unstable angina pectoris, or late revascularization (after >90 days). Results Over 7.5 years follow-up (median = 3.1 years), Kaplan-Meier estimates demonstrated a MACE in 1.0%, 4.6%, and 20.7% in normal coronary arteries, non-obstructive CAD, and obstructive CAD, respectively. Log rank test for pairwise comparisons showed significant differences between non-obstructive CAD and normal coronary arteries ( P = 0.023) and between obstructive CAD and normal coronary arteries ( P < 0.001). In a multivariable analysis, adjusting for classical risk factors, non-obstructive CAD and obstructive CAD were independent predictors of MACE, with hazard ratios (HR) of 3.22 ( P = 0.041) and 25.18 ( P < 0.001), respectively. Conclusion Patients with normal coronary arteries have excellent long-term prognosis, but the risk for MACE increases with non-obstructive and obstructive CAD. Both non-obstructive and obstructive CAD are independently associated with future ischemic events.
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- Sigvant, Birgitta, et al.
(author)
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Myocardial infarction and peripheral arterial disease : Treatment patterns and long-term outcome in men and women results from a Swedish nationwide study
- 2021
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In: European Journal of Preventive Cardiology. - : Oxford University Press. - 2047-4873 .- 2047-4881. ; 28:13, s. 1426-1434
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Differences in comorbidity, pharmacotherapy, cardiovascular (CV) outcome, and mortality between myocardial infarction (MI) patients and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) patients are not well documented. Aim The aim of this study was to compare comorbidity, treatment patterns, CV outcome, and mortality in MI and PAD patients, focusing on sex differences. Methods This observational, population-based study used data retrieved from mandatory Swedish national registries. The risks of MI and death were assessed by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Secondary preventive drug use was characterized. Cox proportional risk hazard modelling was used to determine the risk of specific events. Results Overall, 91,808 incident MI patients and 52,408 PAD patients were included. CV mortality for MI patients at 12, 24, and 36 months after index was 12.3%, 19.3%, and 25.4%, and for PAD patients it was 15.5%, 23.4%, and 31.0%. At index, 89% of MI patients and 65% of PAD patients used aspirin and 74% and 53%, respectively, used statins. Unlike MI women, women with PAD had a lower rate of other CV-related comorbidities and a lower risk of CV events (age-adjusted hazard ratio 0.81, 95% confidence interval 0.79-0.84), CV death (0.78, 0.75-0.82), and all-cause death (0.78, 0.76-0.80) than their PAD male counterparts. Conclusion PAD patients were less intensively treated and had a higher CV mortality than MI patients. Women with PAD were less likely than men to present with established polyvascular disease, whereas the opposite was true of women with MI. This result indicates that the lower-limb vasculature may more often be the index site for atherosclerosis in women.
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- Sunnerud, Sofia, et al.
(author)
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Låg följsamhet till rekommenderad hjärtscreening av elitidrottare - Lägesanalys i Östergötland
- 2018
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In: Läkartidningen. - 0023-7205 .- 1652-7518. ; 115, s. 185-187
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Low adherence to recommended pre-participation cardiac evaluation of Swedish athletes Pre-participation cardiac evaluation of athletes is recommended by international organizations like the European Society of Cardiology and the American Heart Association, as well as by the Swedish Sports Confederation. The purpose of the evaluation is to prevent sudden cardiac death in athletes by early identification of individuals at risk. To our knowledge, no previous study has been made regarding the implementation of pre-participation cardiac evaluation of athletes in Sweden. We performed an electronical survey addressing sports clubs in one out of 21 districts in which the Swedish Sports Confederation is geographically divided. Only four out of 22 responding clubs with elite athletes preformed cardiac evaluation. Lack of knowledge about the recommendations as well as how to perform the evaluation were mentioned as reasons not to evaluate the athletes. Our results indicate the need for more information about pre-participation cardiac evaluation of athletes in Sweden.
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48. |
- Tavenier, Anne H., et al.
(author)
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Efficacy and Safety of Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Inhibitors on Top of Ticagrelor in STEMI: A Subanalysis of the ATLANTIC Trial
- 2020
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In: Thrombosis and Haemostasis. - : GEORG THIEME VERLAG KG. - 0340-6245 .- 2567-689X. ; 120:1, s. 65-74
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPIs) in combination with clopidogrel improve clinical outcome in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI); however, finding a balance that minimizes both thrombotic and bleeding risk remains fundamental. The efficacy and safety of GPI in addition to ticagrelor, a more potent P2Y12-inhibitor, have not been fully investigated. Methods 1,630 STEMI patients who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were analyzed in this subanalysis of the ATLANTIC trial. Patients were divided in three groups: no GPI, GPI administration routinely before primary PCI, and GPI administration in bailout situations. The primary efficacy outcome was a composite of death, myocardial infarction, urgent target revascularization, and definite stent thrombosis at 30 days. The safety outcome was non-coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)-related PLATO major bleeding at 30 days. Results Compared with no GPI ( n = 930), routine GPI ( n = 525) or bailout GPI ( n = 175) was not associated with an improved primary efficacy outcome (4.2% no GPI vs. 4.0% routine GPI vs. 6.9% bailout GPI; p = 0.58). After multivariate analysis, the use of GPI in bailout situations was associated with a higher incidence of non-CABG-related bleeding compared with no GPI (odds ratio [OR] 2.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.32-6.64; p = 0.03). However, routine GPI use compared with no GPI was not associated with a significant increase in bleeding (OR 1.78, 95% CI 0.88-3.61; p = 0.92). Conclusion Use of GPIs in addition to ticagrelor in STEMI patients was not associated with an improvement in 30-day ischemic outcome. A significant increase in 30-day non-CABG-related PLATO major bleeding was seen in patients who received GPIs in a bailout situation.
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- Venetsanos, Dimitrios, et al.
(author)
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Uninterrupted Oral Anticoagulant Therapy in Patients Undergoing Unplanned Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
- 2021
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In: JACC. - : ELSEVIER SCIENCE INC. - 1936-8798 .- 1876-7605. ; 14:7, s. 754-763
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVES This study sought to compare interrupted and uninterrupted oral anticoagulant therapy (I-OAC vs. U-OAC) in patients on OAC undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. BACKGROUND There is a paucity of data regarding the optimal peri-procedural management of OAC-treated patients. METHODS In the SWEDEHEART registry, all patients on OAC who were admitted acutely and underwent percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary angiography with a diagnostic procedure, from 2005 to 2017, were included. Outcomes were major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE; death, myocardial infarction, or stroke) and bleeds at 120 days. Propensity score was used to adjust for the nonrandomized treatment selection. RESULTS The study included 6,485 patients: 3,322 in the I-OAC group and 3,163 in the U-OAC group. The cumulative incidence of MACCE was 8.2% (269 events) versus 8.2% (254 events) in the I-OAC and the U-OAC groups, respectively. The adjusted risk for MACCE did not differ between the groups (I-OAC vs. U-OAC hazard ratio: 0.89; 95% confidence interval: 0.71 to 1.12). Similarly, no difference was found in the risk for MACCE or bleeds (12.6% vs. 12.9%, adjusted hazard ratio: 0.87; 95% confidence interval: 0.70 to 1.07). The risk for major or minor in-hospital bleeds did not differ between the groups. However, U-OAC was associated with a significantly shorter duration of hospitalization: 4 (3 to 7) days versus 5 (3 to 8) days; p < 0.01. CONCLUSIONS I-OAC and U-OAC were associated with equivalent risk for MACCE and bleeding complications. An U-OAC strategy was associated with shorter length of hospitalization. These data support U-OAC as the preferable strategy in patients on OAC undergoing coronary intervention. (c) 2021 by the American College of Cardiology Foundation.
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