Rada Vucic

The Factors Influencing Galectin-3 Levels in Acute Coronary Syndrome with Decreased Left Ventricular Function

Summary The aim of our study was to determine the factors influencing galectin-3 levels in patients with acute coronary syndrome and decreased left ventricular ejection fraction. We collected material from 37 successive patients with acute coronary syndrome and decreased left ventricular ejection fraction, of which 19 patients had atrial fibrillation, and 18 patients who were without atrial fibrillation constituted a control group. Blood samples used for the biochemical measurements were obtained on the third day from acute coronary syndrome. We used Statistical Package for Social Sciences for data analysis. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered to be a measure of statistical significance. Galectin-3 concentration is directly correlated with age and B-type natriuretic peptide level. Also, our results showed an inverse correlation between galectin-3 and total body weight, body mass index, body surface area and creatinine clearance. The following variables were found to be significant predictors of galectin-3 level: decreased left ventricular ejection fraction, total body weight, LDL concentration and body mass index. We identified factors that can predict a decrease in the left ventricular ejection fraction below 45% after acute coronary syndrome: atrial fibrillation increases the risk by almost six times, and urea concentration increases the risk by 1.2 times for each unit. Left ventricular ejection fraction below 45%, TBW, body mass index and LDL level are good predictors of galectin-3 concentration in patients with ACS and decreased left ventricular ejection fraction. Atrial fibrillation could be a predictive marker of decreased left ventricular ejection fraction.

Can Statins Help „Good Cholesterol“ to Become Even Better

Abstract Background: Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is a most common manifestation of generalised atherosclerosis. Hyperlipidemia is one of the most significant risk factors causing atherosclerosis. Becouse of this, statin therapy is the (guideline) in therapy of hyperlipoproteinemia. Aim: The aim of this study was to show the hypolipemic effect of statins. Material and Methods: The research included 74 patients with hyperlipoproteinemia type II and III, with (59 patients) or without (15) coronary disease diagnosis. All patients have been treated with statins. In all patients, we analizing statins hypolipemic effects, and the research was carried out: before therapy, after 2 and 6 weeks, 3 months, and than every 3 months during 2 years of treatment. Results: Target value of lipoprotein profile parameter is achieved after 3-6 months of statin treatment. According to the results HDL-cholesterol was changed with the statins for 12.5% average; the highest average value change of 27.5% was recorded at the end of follow-up, and the minimal mean change, observed 2 weeks after therapy initiation was 4.59%. Conclusion: The statin therapy has significant effect on lipoprotein profile and atherogenic index. That effect is the most intensive after 3 month therapy, and target level of lipoprotein parameter are achieved after 3-6 months of statin treatment.

Fractional Flow Reserve Method in Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory without Cardiosurgical Backup: Initial Experiences

Abstract Background: Coronary artery disease is the most common cause of death in a modern world. This dictates the development a network of Catheterization laboratories without cardiosurgical capabilities. Aim: We postulate that the most valuable tool in the decision process on myocardial revascularization is fractional flow reserve (FFR), especially when we deal with borderline coronary lesions. Material and Methods: A total of 72 patients with 94 intermediate coronary stenosis (30%-70% diameter reduction) were included in this study. We tested FFR and angiography based decision model on myocardial revascularization. Results: Mean FFR value on left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) was lower than in others two arteries (p=0.017). FFR after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was significantly better (p<0.0001). The decision for PCI predominates before FFR diagnostics, but after FFR the decision is quite opposite. There is a weak negative correlation between FFR and diameter of stenosis assessed by angiography (r= - 0.245 p=0.038) and positive correlation between diameter of stenosis assessed by angiography and by quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) (r=0.406 p<0.0005). Conclusion: Our results strongly suggest that FFR is necessary tool in centers without possibilities of heart team onsite consultation and that prevents numerous unnecessary PCI.