Direct cardiovascular complications and indirect collateral damage during the COVID-19 pandemic : A review

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, significantly impacts global healthcare systems.
• Pre-existing cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major risk factor for severe COVID-19 and adverse outcomes.
• COVID-19 can directly worsen heart conditions and cause complications like thromboembolic events and myocardial injury.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cardiovascular disease management.
• To emphasize the indirect consequences of pandemic-related healthcare resource redirection on cardiac procedures.
• To stress the importance of maintaining high-quality cardiac care during public health crises.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease.
• Analysis of reported changes in cardiac procedures during the pandemic.
• Observation of trends in cardiac emergencies and severe presentations.

Main Results:

• A substantial decrease in cardiac procedures, including coronary angiographies and device implantations, was observed globally.
• An increase in out-of-hospital cardiac arrests, subacute myocardial infarctions, and cardiogenic shock presentations occurred.
• Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease face heightened risks due to direct viral effects and indirect healthcare system strain.

Conclusions:

• The COVID-19 pandemic poses significant direct and indirect threats to patients with cardiovascular disease.
• Reduced access to cardiac procedures during the pandemic has led to worse patient outcomes.
• Sustaining comprehensive cardiac services is essential, even amidst a global health emergency, to ensure optimal patient care.