Abstract Although the existing framework for classifying acute myocardial infarction (AMI) into STEMI and NSTEMI has been beneficial, it is now considered to be falling short in addressing the complexity of acute coronary syndromes. The study aims to scrutinize the current STEMI-NSTEMI paradigm and advocate for a more nuanced framework, termed as occlusion myocardial infarction (OMI) and non-occlusion myocardial infarction (NOMI), for a more accurate diagnosis and management of AMI. A comprehensive analysis of existing medical literature was conducted, with […]

Abstract Background Major advances have been seen in techniques and devices for performing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) for chronic total occlusions (CTOs), but there are limited real-world practice data from developing countries. Objectives To report clinical and angiographic characteristics, procedural aspects, and clinical outcomes of CTO PCI performed at dedicated centers in Brazil. Methods Included patients underwent CTO PCI at centers participating in the LATAM CTO Registry, a Latin American multicenter registry dedicated to prospective collection of these data. Inclusion […]

Abstract Background Inflammation plays a key role in the initiation and progression of coronary artery disease (CAD). The systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) is a novel inflammatory parameter that has been shown to be associated with CAD. Objective This study aimed to investigate the relationship between SII and coronary collateral circulation (CCC) in patients with stable CAD and chronic total occlusion (CTO). Methods The patients were divided into two groups, with poor CCC and good CCC, according to the Rentrop Classification. […]

Abstract Background Left atrial appendage (LAA) closure has been an alternative to oral anticoagulation (OAC) for stroke prevention in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). Objectives To report the first results of an initial multicenter experience in Brazil and to investigate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of LAA closure with the new LAmbre device. Methods We collected procedural and follow-up data of 51 consecutive patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, restrictions for long-term OAC and suitable anatomy that underwent LAA closure […]

Abstract Background: The beneficial effects of Elabela on the cardiovascular system have been shown in studies. Objective: To compare serum Elabela levels of chronic total occlusion (CTO) patients with control patients with normal coronary arteries, and to investigate whether there is a correlation with collateral development. Methods: The study was planned cross-sectionally and prospectively. Fifty patients (28.0% female, mean age 61.6±7.3years) with CTO in at least one coronary vessel and 50 patients (38% female, mean age 60,7±6.38 years) with normal […]

Introduction The left main coronary artery (LMCA) originates from the left sinus of Valsalva, passes between the main pulmonary artery and the left atrial appendage before entering the coronary sulcus and bifurcates into the left anterior descending (LAD) and the left circumflex (LCX) coronary arteries. In most individuals, the LMCA supplies ≈75% of the left ventricle (LV). Significant stenosis, which may lead to stable angina and/or acute coronary syndrome, places the patient at risk of life-threatening acute left ventricular failure […]

Abstract Percutaneous coronary intervention in chronic total occlusion is a rapidly evolving area, being considered the last frontier of interventional cardiology. In recent years, the development of new techniques and equipment, as well as the training of specialized personnel, increased their success rates, making it the most predictable procedure available. Although the number of randomized and controlled studies is still limited, results from large multicentered registries allow us to safely offer this intervention to patients, as another treatment option along […]

Case 55-year-old male with history of ischemic cardiomyopathy with previous percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in the anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) middle segment was admitted to our hospital for chest pains. A new coronary angiogram showed in-stent chronic total occlusion (ISCTO) of LAD receiving collaterals from right coronary artery (RCA). Left circumflex (LCX) was totally occluded and RCA presented a significant mid-segment lesion. Complete percutaneous revascularization was planned. First attempt to recanalize the LAD failed because the lesion obstructed the […]