Predictive value of early postmyocardial infarction modified treadmill exercise testing in multivessel coronary...

We evaluated 57 patients with modified treadmill exercise testing and angiography early post-infarction (MI) to determine the predictive value of ST segment depression, angina, and an inadequate blood pressure response for multivessel coronary artery disease (MVCAD). ST segment depression alone identified MVCAD stenoses (greater than or equal to 70% diameter narrowing in two or more vessels) with sensitivity 54%, specificity 75%, and accuracy 60%. When ST segment depression and angina were considered a positive treadmill test result, a significant improvement in sensitivity (88%, p less than 0.01) and accuracy (82%, p less than 0.05) for MVCAD was observed. An inadequate blood pressure response was associated with MVCAD (12 of 13 patients) and a significantly reduced average left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction of 39 plus or minus 13% compared to 58 plus or minus 14% for patients without this treadmill abnormality (p less than 0.01). Therefore, we conclude that (1) ST segment depression and angina on early post-MI modified treadmill exercise testing are superior predictors of MVCAD compared to ST segment depression alone and (2) an inadequate blood pressure response during modified exercise testing early following MI is observed in patients with MVCAD and reduced LV performance.