Revascularization following non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction in multivessel coronary disease

Abstract

Background The optimal revascularization approach for patients with multivessel coronary artery disease (MVCAD) is controversial. We sought to investigate outcomes in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for non‐ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Methods Adult patients with MVCAD and NSTEMI undergoing either CABG or PCI at a single institution between 2011 and 2018 were included. Multivariable analysis was utilized to determine independent predictors of death, major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), and readmissions. A subanalysis examined patients undergoing complete revascularization. Results A total of 2001 patients were included, of whom 1480 (74.0%) underwent CABG. CABG was associated with a lower risk‐adjusted hazard for death (hazard ratio, 0.59, P < .001) and with improved survival at 1 year (92.0 vs 81.8%, P < .001) and 5 years (80.7 vs 63.3%, P < .001). Additionally, freedom from MACCE (P < .001) was greater in the CABG group and cumulative readmission, rates of MI, and rates of repeat revascularization were lower with CABG (each P < .001). Among patients undergoing complete revascularization, overall survival (1 year: 92.7 vs 83.9%, P = .010; 5 years: 81.1 vs 69.4%, P < .001) and freedom from MACCE (1 year: 92.3 vs 75.2%, P < .001; 5 years: 81.7 vs 61.4%, P < .001) remained higher for the CABG group; cumulative incidence of readmission was also decreased in those undergoing CABG (P < .001). Conclusions In this real‐world analysis of patients with MVCAD presenting with NSTEMI, revascularization with CABG resulted in improved survival with lower rates of MACCE and readmission as compared to PCI, which persisted when accounting for complete revascularization.