Long-term outcomes of infective endocarditis in Finnish patients
Author Information
Author(s): Heiro Maija, Helenius Hans, Hurme Saija, Savunen Timo, Metsärinne Kaj, Engblom Erik, Nikoskelainen Jukka, Kotilainen Pirkko
Primary Institution: Turku University Hospital
Hypothesis
What factors are associated with the long-term outcome of infective endocarditis?
Conclusion
Heart failure during the initial episode of infective endocarditis significantly predicts a poor long-term outcome.
Supporting Evidence
- Overall survival was 95%, 82%, 66%, 51%, and 45% at 2, 5, 10, 15, and 20 years respectively.
- Heart failure within 3 months of admission was a significant predictor of long-term mortality.
- Patients who underwent early surgery had significantly lower overall mortality rates.
Takeaway
If someone has a heart problem when they first get infective endocarditis, they might not do as well later. But if they have surgery early, they usually do better.
Methodology
The study evaluated the long-term outcomes of 243 episodes of infective endocarditis in 226 patients who survived longer than 1 year after initial admission, using data collected from hospital records and the National Population Registry.
Limitations
The heterogeneity of the patient population may limit the applicability of the results in daily clinical practice.
Participant Demographics
The mean age of patients was 52.4 years, with 174 episodes in men and 69 in women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.003
Confidence Interval
95% CI 1.27 to 3.06
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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