Predictive Value of Atherogenic Index for No-Reflow in Patients Undergoing Coronary Intervention for Saphenous Vein Graft with Acute Coronary Syndrome

Abstract

Background

The no-reflow phenomenon is a critical complication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), especially in patients with saphenous vein graft (SVG) disease. Identifying predictors of no-reflow is crucial to improving risk stratification. The atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), calculated as log(triglyceride/HDL-C), is a marker of atherosclerosis and microvascular dysfunction. However, its role in predicting no-reflow during SVG interventions remains unclear.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the association between AIP and the no-reflow phenomenon in patients undergoing PCI for SVG lesions presenting with non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

Methods

This single-center retrospective study included 287 patients who underwent PCI for significant SVG stenosis. Patients were categorized into normal reflow and no-reflow groups based on post-PCI TIMI (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction) flow grades. Baseline demographic, clinical, laboratory, and angiographic data were extracted. AIP was calculated using formula log (TG/HDL-C). Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine independent predictors of the no-reflow. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05.

Results

The no-reflow group was older and had a higher prevalence of comorbidities, including diabetes, atrial fibrillation, chronic heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and stroke history. They also exhibited lower HDL-C levels, higher triglyceride levels, and consequently higher AIP values compared to the normal reflow group. Multivariate analysis identified degenerated SVG (OR: 4.65, p<0.001), thrombus presence (OR: 5.65, p<0.001), reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (OR: 0.927, p<0.001), and elevated AIP (OR: 3.141, p=0.001) as independent predictors of the no-reflow.

Conclusion

Elevated AIP is an independent risk factor for no-reflow in NSTEMI patients undergoing PCI for Saphenous Vein Graft, highlighting its potential role in early risk stratification.