Petra Barthel

95% CI 95% confidence interval ACE-inhibitor angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor ACM all-cause mortality AMI acute myocardial infarction ART Autonomic Regulation Trial BMI body mass index CABG coronary artery bypass grafting CM cardiac mortality COPD chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ECG electrocardiogram eGFR estimated glomerular filtration rate fQRS fragmented QRS GRACE score Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events score HR hazard ratio IQR interquartile range LVEF left ventricular...

Abstract Background Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) prevent sudden cardiac death. ICD implantation decisions are currently based on reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF≤35%). However, in some patients, the non-arrhythmic death risk predominates thus diminishing ICD-therapy benefits.

Matched sub-groups of post-AMI patients showed a comparable long-term mortality. However, a female excess mortality remained during first year after AMI and cannot be explained by differences in age, cardiovascular risk factors, and modes of acute treatment. Other causal factors, including clinical as well as psychological and social aspects, need to be considered. Female post-AMI patients should be followed more actively particularly during the first year after AMI.