Abstract Background Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) are a class of drugs fundamental to hypertension treatment; however, the individual medications within this class vary in their effectiveness at controlling Blood Pressure (BP). Objectives To analyze BP values obtained through casual measurements and home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) in patients using ACEI as monotherapy or in dual combinations, focusing on BP control and goal achievement in a Brazilian population. Methods A cross-sectional study evaluating adult patients using ACEI between 2017 and 2020 […]

Abstract Background The success of acute myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation (STEMI) treatment is time-dependent, requiring prompt access, diagnosis, and immediate medical intervention. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the care of patients with STEMI. Objective To analyze delay times and clinical outcomes of patients with STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This retrospective observational study included patients with STEMI undergoing PPCI from June 2019 to July 2022. The COVID-19 pandemic period […]

Abstract Background Coronary artery disease (CAD) is prevalent worldwide, presenting significant morbidity and mortality. Despite the advances in the management of CAD, the primary focus continues to be risk factor reduction, lifestyle changes, and medication adherence, all of which contribute considerably to favorable outcomes. Long-term CAD outcomes tend to be poor, especially in developing countries, due to medication non-compliance, a lack of education, and appropriate measures for the modification of risk factors. Objectives The present study aims to investigate the […]

Abstract Background Digital health uses innovative information technology for healthcare needs. Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly adopted in healthcare, including cardiovascular rehabilitation (CVR), to improve performance and adherence. However, digital interventions must consider users’ perspectives to prevent VR from becoming a barrier. Objective This study aimed to assess the usability and enjoyment of physical activity associated with VR among inpatients with heart failure (HF). Method A prospective pilot study was conducted with ten patients diagnosed with HF. Participants completed an […]

Abstract Hypertensive emergencies (HE) are life-threatening conditions triggered by sudden increases in blood pressure (BP) exceeding 180 mmHg systolic and/or 110 mmHg diastolic levels, often resulting in acute organ damage (AOD) and the risk of death. This article discusses contemporary practices in diagnosing and managing these episodes, emphasizing early recognition and immediate therapeutic intervention. It highlights the significance of a meticulous diagnostic assessment for appropriate clinical and therapeutic approaches, including detailed medical history, physical examination, and complementary investigations. Treatment focuses […]

Abstract Background Supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) is a common arrhythmia in pediatric patients. Emerging evidence suggests a link between systemic inflammation and cardiovascular diseases. Objectives This study aims to investigate the relationship between the monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with SVT in pediatric patients. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study at Rize Education and Research Hospital’s Pediatric Health and Diseases Department, including 33 patients diagnosed with SVT and 33 control subjects without sinus tachycardia. Hemogram (CBC) parameters, electrocardiography (ECG), […]

Abstract Severe cardiac injuries, such as blunt or penetrating injuries caused by bladed weapons, require early diagnosis, usually by electrocardiography, tomography, and Focused Assessment With Sonography in Trauma (FAST). This study describes a case of penetrating cardiac trauma successfully treated by surgical intervention. During surgery, the medical team identified a serrated knife blade in the anterior chest wall, associated with a rib fracture and pericardial injury, without compromising the diaphragm. The patient had a positive outcome after the intervention. Effective […]

Social explosion The creation of various types of AI has led to the generation of a large cluster of data, called “Big Data”. This data storage brings countless possibilities for use, such as in health and education, data interpretation, recognition of writing patterns, and analysis and construction of texts. The social explosion of AI occurred in November 2022, with the launch of the chatbot ChaGTP, developed by OpenAi, which was the first use of generative AI to be successful and […]

Abstract Background Current guidelines recommend incorporating exercise and physical activity, such as inspiratory muscle training (IMT) and neuromuscular training, as adjunctive therapies alongside pharmacological treatments for patients with heart failure (HF). Objective To evaluate the effects of IMT and peripheral muscle training (PMT) on respiratory and peripheral muscle strength, lung function, and functional capacity in patients with HF. Methods This is a randomized controlled trial. Prior to randomization, all patients were assessed with the 6-minute walk test, inspiratory muscle strength […]

Abstract Background Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease. Cardiovascular diseases, including arrhythmias, tend to occur more frequently in these patients. Objective This study aimed to investigate new electrocardiographic markers for assessing ventricular repolarization in outpatients with psoriasis in a tertiary center in Brazil. Methods This work is a cross-sectional study, which selected outpatients with psoriasis undergoing follow-up in a tertiary dermatology service in southern Brazil. The controls were selected from a private outpatient clinic. All the electrocardiogram (ECG) analyses were […]