Impact of automated contrast injector systems on contrast use and contrast-associated complications in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of manual versus automated contrast injection on renal complications in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background: Contrast volume is a major modifiable risk factor for contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN). Automated contrast injector systems (ACIS) are believed to be associated with a reduction in the total volume of contrast media use.

Cardiovascular medications taken by patients aged >or=70 years hospitalized for acute coronary syndromes before hospitalization and at hospital discharge.

A prospective study was performed in 177 patients, mean age 78+/-6 years, hospitalized with acute coronary syndromes. Obstructive coronary artery disease was documented by coronary angiography in 154 of 177 patients (87%). Coronary revascularization was performed in 96 of 177 patients (54%).

Comparison of acute coronary syndromes among elderly African Americans, elderly whites, and elderly patients of other races.

The purpose of this study was to investigate acute coronary syndromes (ACS) in elderly persons of different races. A prospective study was performed in which 177 consecutive unselected patients aged > or = 70 years hospitalized for ACS had coronary angiography. The patients included 11 blacks, 140 whites, and 26 patients of other races.