Next Article in Journal
Psychopathological Influences on Surgical and Clinical Outcomes in Lumbar Disk Herniation: Prediction Models and Literature Analysis
Previous Article in Journal
Impact of Whole-Body Cryotherapy on Pain, Sleep Quality, Functional Status, and Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis: A Comparative Study with Follow-Up
 
 
Font Type:
Arial Georgia Verdana
Font Size:
Aa Aa Aa
Line Spacing:
Column Width:
Background:
Article

Mid-Regional Pro-Adrenomedullin Is Associated with Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes After Cardiac Surgery

1
Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine II, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
2
Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
3
Division of Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
4
2nd Department of Medicine with Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Vienna Healthcare Group, Clinic Landstrasse, Medical University of Vienna, 1030 Vienna, Austria
*
Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
J. Pers. Med. 2025, 15(2), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15020047
Submission received: 20 December 2024 / Revised: 21 January 2025 / Accepted: 24 January 2025 / Published: 26 January 2025
(This article belongs to the Section Disease Biomarker)

Abstract

:
Background: In the era of personalized medicine, tools for risk stratification after cardiovascular interventions are crucial to reduce mortality and morbidity, especially in the aging population. Biomarker-based approaches, in particular, have gained significant importance. Mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin (MR-proADM) represents an easily assessable biomarker that mirrors cardiac function and fibrosis. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the prognostic potential of MR-proADM in patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. Methods: Patients undergoing elective cardiac bypass and/or valve surgery were prospectively enrolled between May 2013 and August 2018. The primary endpoint was the composite of hospitalization for heart failure (HHF) or cardiovascular (CV) mortality. Results: In total, 500 patients (146 female [29.2%]; median age 69.8 years (IQR 60.6–75.5 years) were included. Individuals were stratified into risk categories based on their MR-proADM values (Low Risk ≤ 0.63 nmol/L, Intermediate Risk > 0.63 and ≤0.84, High Risk > 0.84). A significant increase in 5-year event rates for HHF/CV mortality in patients in the high-risk category (Low Risk 8.6% vs. High Risk 37.7%, p < 0.001) was observed. MR-pro ADM showed an independent association with HHF/ CV mortality (adjusted HR of 3.43, 95% CI 1.83–6.42; p < 0.001 comparing the High-Risk group to the Low-Risk group). Conclusions: MR-pro ADM was found to be a strong and independent predictor for HHF/CV mortality in patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. Considering a personalized diagnostic and prognostic work-up, a standardized preoperative evaluation of MR-proADM levels might help to identify patients at risk for major adverse events and early re-hospitalization.

Graphical Abstract

1. Introduction

Considering the aging population, mortality and morbidity following cardiac surgery continue to be significant challenges to achieving favorable long-term outcomes. Despite substantial advancements in protecting perioperative myocardial function, medical therapy, and postoperative care, heart failure (HF) and mortality due to disease progression remain prevalent during the postoperative period. Although complication and mortality rates are declining, adverse events such as sepsis, bleeding, ischemic events, HF, and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) continue to impact patient outcomes [1]. In the era of personalized medicine and tailored prognostic assessments, identifying predictive markers offers a compelling approach to risk stratification in clinical settings. Consequently, discovering new biomarkers that reflect various facets of the underlying pathophysiological process could enhance diagnostic assessment and offer supplementary prognostic insights. Additionally, to enhance risk assessment before surgery, there is a growing utilization of biomarker-based approaches to appraise the postoperative prognosis that patients encounter [2,3].
Adrenomedullin is a regulatory peptide expressed in most tissues of the human body, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, and endocrine and blood cells. Initially most acknowledged due to its vasodilatory function, it also influences cellular growth and differentiation and has been proven to be associated with cardiovascular (CV) disorders [4,5]. Recent evidence has shown that MR-proADM has strong and independent potential as both a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for HF [6,7,8,9]. Elevated levels of MR-proADM are associated with increased mortality and rehospitalization in both chronic and acute HF [10,11]. Furthermore, MR-proADM levels rise with increasing NYHA classes, reflecting disease severity [12].
Considering the available data in the literature and the importance of a personalized diagnostic and prognostic preoperative work-up, MR-proADM might be a promising biomarker for risk stratification before the index surgical procedure in patients scheduled for elective CABG and/ or valve replacement. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the prognostic value of a standardized preoperative assessment of MR-proADM levels on HHF and CV mortality in patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Study Population

In this prospective observational study, 500 patients undergoing elective valve and/or bypass surgery were enrolled. All surgical interventions were conducted at the Department of Cardiac Surgery at the Medical University of Vienna (Austria) between May 2013 and August 2018. All patients admitted for elective coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) and/ or valve surgery were eligible. Exclusion criteria were age of ≤18 years, atrial fibrillation at hospital admission or within the last 6 months before admission, non-elective cardiac surgery, and planned percutaneous or transapical valve implantation. Participants were enrolled at the time of hospital admission prior to surgery and gave written informed consent. At the time of hospital admission, an ECG was assessed to confirm the patients’ sinus rhythm since a history of AF was a criterion for non-eligibility. The study process is illustrated in Figure 1. The study protocol adheres to the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki and has received approval from the Ethics Committee at the Medical University of Vienna (No. 1110/2013).

2.2. Data Acquisition and MR-proADM Measures

Patients’ demographics were assessed using a standardized questionnaire, including their medical history and clinical presentation. Routine laboratory blood samples were processed by the Department of Laboratory Medicine of the General Hospital of Vienna (Medical University of Vienna). For MR-proADM measures, a preoperative, peripheral venous blood sample was taken at the time of enrollment. The blood samples were centrifuged at 3000 bpm for 20 min at 4 °C (Allegra X-12R Centrifuge; Beckman Coulter, United States). The harvested plasma was subsequently stored at −80 °C for further analysis. MR-pro ADM levels were measured using an automated immunofluorescence assay (B B·R·A·H·M·S MR-proADM KRPYTOR), with a detection limit of 0.05 nmol/L, a limit of quantitation of 0.23 nmol/L, and an inter-assay coefficient of variability of 20% at 0.25 nmol/L.

2.3. Follow-Up and Endpoints

The primary outcome was the composite of CV death or HHF. Secondary outcomes were the individual components of the primary endpoint and POAF and all-cause mortality. For the primary endpoint, the cause of death was acquired via the national death registry, and for HHF, data from the Vienna Healthcare Group hospitalizations database (“Wiener Gesundheitsverbund”) were assessed.
Postoperatively, patients were monitored and screened for the emergence of POAF. During the early postoperative period (within 9 days after surgery), patients were continuously observed using a 3-lead surface electrocardiographic system. In the event of an arrhythmic episode, POAF was documented using a 12-lead surface electrocardiogram for over 30 s, in line with recent guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology [13].

2.4. Statistical Analysis

Categorical data were illustrated as counts and proportions and analyzed using the Chi-Square Test. Continuous variables were shown as medians with the Inter-Quartile Range (IQR) and analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test. To determine MR-proADM risk groups for CV mortality, a Classification And Regression Tree (CART) analysis was performed. Observation periods were assessed using the Kaplan–Meier estimator, and event rates for the individual endpoints were compared using the log-rank test. To assess the risk for the primary and secondary endpoints with increasing MR-proADM values, a Cox regression model was used. The multivariate model was adjusted for age, sex, type of surgery, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP), Creatinine and C-reactive protein (CRP). A two-sided p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. All calculations were performed using SPSS (version 29.0.0.0) and R (version 4.0.4; R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria).

3. Results

3.1. Study Population

A total of 500 patients were enrolled in the present study. Participants were followed prospectively over a median of 4.6 years (IQR 3.0–5.8). The median age was 69.8 years, and 146 (29.2%) were female. Within the entire study population, 214 (42.8%) individuals underwent valve surgery, 160 (32.0%) coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, and 126 (25.2%) patients received a combined (CABG and valve replacement) procedure.
CART analysis revealed a cut-off-value for MR-proADM of ≤0.63 nmol/L (=Low Risk) 0.64–0.84 nmol/L (=Intermediate Risk) and ≥0.84 nmol/L (=High Risk). Detailed characteristics of the entire study population and those stratified into risk categories are illustrated in Table 1. As expected, patients in the highest risk group tended to be older, had a lower left ventricular ejection fraction, and presented with higher overall morbidity (illustrated by the CHA2DS2-VASc score and EuroSCORE II, respectively, p-value < 0.001). In higher-risk groups, patients were more likely to receive a combined procedure (CABG and valve replacement, p-value 0.008).

3.2. Impact of MR-proADM on Cardiovascular Outcomes

After a median follow-up time of 4.6 years (IQR 3.0–5.8), 83 patients (16.6%) reached the predefined composite primary endpoint. We observed that MR-proADM was strong and independently associated with HHF/CV death with an adjusted HR of 1.58 (95%CI: 1.28–1.96; p-value < 0.001). A consistent association was evident for the secondary endpoints CV death (adjusted HR of 1.70; 95% CI: 1.34–2.14, p-value < 0.001) and all-cause mortality (adjusted HR of 1.78; 95% CI: 1.43–2.22, p-value < 0.001).
Notably, a concentration-dependent effect of MR-proADM was observed, illustrating a more than three-folded increase in risk comparing the Low- to the High-Risk category (adjusted HR of 3.43, 95% CI 1.83–6.42, p-value < 0.001) for the primary endpoint. (Figure 2). The findings were confirmed and graphically illustrated by Kaplan–Meier survival plots (see Figure 3). The Receiver-Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve showed similar performance for NT-proBNP, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.729 (95% CI 0.671–0.786), compared to an area under the curve of 0.727 (95% CI 0.669–0.785) for MR-proADM regarding the primary endpoint HHF/CV mortality. Reclassification analysis showed a net reclassification index of 0.42 (95% CI 0.18–0.65, p-value 0.0004) and an integrated discrimination increment of 0.01 (95% CI −0.001–0.023, p-value 0.077). A risk assessment including both EuroScore and CHA2DS2VASc score is displayed in Table 2.

3.3. Association of MR-proADM and Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation

A total of 211 patients (42.2%) developed POAF during their hospital stay. There was a significant association between the occurrence of POAF and MR-proADM levels with an OR of 1.70 (95% CI 1.13–2.55, p-value 0.010).
Analysis of the previously assessed risk groups revealed a significant increase in the risk of developing POAF in the High-Risk group compared to the Low-Risk group, with an OR of 2.02 (95% CI 1.28–3.20, p = 0.003), as summarized in Table 3.

4. Discussion

To the best of our knowledge, the present investigation represents the first and largest analysis demonstrating that MR-proADM is independently associated with the composite endpoint HHF/ CV death, as well as CV death, all-cause mortality, and POAF in an unselected patient cohort undergoing elective cardiac surgery. Moreover, MR-proADM showed promising diagnostic capability in identifying high-risk patients who may require in-depth clinical attention, as illustrated in Figure 2. Therefore, MR-proADM, as a novel biomarker, could complement and enhance the utility of existing markers. Its integration within a personalized and tailored risk stratification approach might significantly improve the prevention of adverse cardiovascular outcomes in individuals undergoing cardiac surgery.

4.1. MR-proADM as Prognostic Biomarker for Cardiovascular Outcomes

Adrenomedullin is a regulatory peptide, particularly known for its powerful vasodilatory effect. While lowering blood pressure, it increases blood flow, preserves endothelial integrity, and is an inhibitor of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system [14]. In the general population, elevated MR-proADM levels have been found to be associated with higher rates of CV and all-cause mortality [15]. Furthermore, it has been established as a biomarker in septic patients, providing prognostic information on the severity of the disease as well as the short- and long-term survival [16]. In the Australia–New Zealand Heart Failure Study, MR-proADM was independently associated with both mortality and HHF in 297 patients with chronic ischemic left ventricular dysfunction [17]. In our patient population, we observed a more than three-fold increased risk for the composite of HHF/ CV death in patients with high MR-proADM values, indicating MR-proADM as an independent prognostic factor in long-term morbidity and mortality. When compared to NT-proBNP, we could observe a comparable AUC, and even after adjusting for other risk scores, such as the EuroSCORE and the CHA2DS2VASc score, there was still a nearly three-fold increase in risk for the primary endpoint in the highest-risk group.

4.2. Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation

POAF is one of the most common adverse events after cardiac surgery, affecting up to 40% of patients. Its pathogenesis is multifactorial, influenced by various risk factors, including local inflammation and atrial remodeling [18]. Previously, associations have been identified between POAF and several novel biomarkers, including midregional pro-atrial natriuretic peptide, galectin-3, growth differentiation factor-15, and fibroblast growth factor-23 [19,20,21,22]. In the general population, there seems to be a significant trend between the development of AF and higher MR-proADM levels [23]. Moreover, in patients undergoing pulmonary vein radiofrequency ablation, higher baseline MR-proADM levels have indicated a higher risk of AF recurrence [24]. Our data showed a significant association between higher MR-proADM values and the development of POAF, indicated by an OR of 1.70 (95% CI 1.13–2.55, p-value 0.010) after comprehensive adjustment. Given that POAF can progress to long-term AF, resulting in increased short- and long-term mortality rates and a higher risk of stroke, preoperative individual risk assessment is crucial [18]. Incorporating MR-proADM into risk assessment for individuals undergoing cardiac surgery could thereby provide a valuable prognostic tool for POAF and its associated adverse events.

4.3. Risk Assessment in Cardiac Surgery

As minimally invasive procedures are on the rise, preoperative risk assessment is vitally important to enable the best possible patient-oriented therapy decision [25]. A study by Schoe et al. in 2015 involving patients undergoing elective cardiac procedures demonstrated that postoperative MR-proADM values are a feasible tool for predicting intrahospital mortality [26]. In patients with vasodilatory shock after cardiac surgery, significantly higher MR-proADM levels were observed compared to patients with uncomplicated postoperative course by Hillinger et al. in 2022 [27]. Moreover, MR-proADM has been proven to be a prognostic marker not only in conventional cardiac surgery but also in minimally invasive operations. Particularly, in a study of 100 patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), higher preoperative levels of MR-proADM were associated with an increased risk of adverse events [28]. Our data further supports the prognostic impact of preoperative MR-proADM measurements in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

4.4. Clinical Implementation and Personalized Risk Assessment

Adrenomedullin levels will likely mirror the cardiac and systemic response to cardiac impairment. In addition to its potent vasodilatory action, adrenomedullin enhances contractility through multiple pathways, including Ca2+ release and increased Ca2+ influx [29].
In the present study, CART analysis enabled the stratification of risk groups for adverse events based on patients’ baseline MR-proADM values. Patients with preoperative MR-proADM levels of >0.84 nmol/L showed an increase in risk for HHF/CV death and a twofold chance of developing POAF post-procedure compared to patients in the Low-Risk group. It is well known that POAF generally results in an increased incidence of adverse events and worse clinical outcomes [18]. Identifying these POAF-susceptible patients allows for implementing preventive measures, including pharmaceutical and interventional treatments [30,31]. Moreover, the onset of HF ranks among the leading causes of hospital readmission after cardiac surgery [32]. The preoperative assessment of MR-proADM effectively identified high-risk patients, enabling the possible implementation of proactive management strategies. Both CV and all-cause mortality were shown to be significantly associated with higher MR-proADM levels with a 3- to 4-fold increase in risk in patients with values of >0.84 nmol/L.
Within the present study, MR-proADM successfully identified vulnerable patients. Therefore, incorporating this marker into personalized preoperative risk prediction assessments might be suggested, as it may allow physicians to evaluate the net clinical benefit of the procedure and implement preventive strategies for adverse events.

4.5. Limitations

Some limitations regarding this study warrant consideration. Firstly, this is a single-center study. Therefore, generalization to the wide public may not be possible. Regarding HHF, there might be the possibility of underreporting due to recall bias. Finally, despite multiple adjustments, residual confounding is still possible.

5. Conclusions

MR-pro ADM was found to be a strong and independent predictor for HHF/CV mortality in an unselected cohort undergoing elective cardiac surgery. Considering a personalized diagnostic and prognostic preoperative work-up, a standardized preoperative evaluation of MR-proADM levels might help to identify patients at risk for major adverse events and early re-hospitalization.

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, P.S., U.B., A.N., A.H. and N.K.; Methodology, P.S., U.B., and N.K.; Software, A.N. and P.S.; formal analysis, P.S., U.B. and N.K.; Investigation, U.B., A.H., F.H., N.K., L.K., E.S., D.Z., M.A., B.S., C.H., A.N. and P.S.; Resources, D.Z., M.A., B.S., C.H., A.N. and P.S.; Data curation, A.H., F.H., N.K., L.K. and E.S.; writing—original draft preparation, U.B.; writing—review and editing, A.H., F.H., N.K., L.K., E.S., D.Z., M.A., B.S., C.H., A.N. and P.S.; Visualization, U.B., N.K. and F.H.; Supervision, A.N. and P.S.; project administration, P.S. and A.N.; funding acquisition, P.S. and A.N. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research received no external funding.

Institutional Review Board Statement

The study protocol adheres to the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki and has received approval from the Ethics Committee at the Medical University of Vienna (No. 1110/2013).

Informed Consent Statement

Informed consent was obtained from all subjects involved in the study.

Data Availability Statement

Data are available upon reasonable request.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Abbreviations

The following abbreviations are used in this manuscript:
CABGCoronary artery bypass graft
CARTClassification And Regression Tree
CRPC-reactive protein
CVCardiovascular
HFHeart failure
HHFHospitalization for heart failure
IQRInterquartile range
MR-proADMMid-regional pro adrenomedullin
NT-pro BNPN-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide
POAFPostoperative atrial fibrillation

References

  1. Pahwa, S.; Bernabei, A.; Schaff, H.; Stulak, J.; Greason, K.; Pochettino, A.; Daly, R.; Dearani, J.; Bagameri, G.; King, K.; et al. Impact of postoperative complications after cardiac surgery on long-term survival. J. Card. Surg. 2021, 36, 2045–2052. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  2. Castiglione, V.; Aimo, A.; Vergaro, G.; Saccaro, L.; Passino, C.; Emdin, M. Biomarkers for the diagnosis and management of heart failure. Heart Fail. Rev. 2022, 27, 625–643. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  3. Song, Y.-K.; Yuan, H.-X.; Jian, Y.-P.; Chen, Y.-T.; Liang, K.-F.; Liu, X.-J.; Ou, Z.-J.; Liu, J.-S.; Li, Y.; Ou, J.-S. Pentraxin 3 in Circulating Microvesicles: A Potential Biomarker for Acute Heart Failure After Cardiac Surgery with Cardiopulmonary Bypass. J. Cardiovasc. Transl. Res. 2022, 15, 1414–1423. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  4. Hinson, J.P.; Kapas, S.; Smith, D.M. Adrenomedullin, a Multifunctional Regulatory Peptide. Endocr. Rev. 2000, 21, 138–167. [Google Scholar] [PubMed]
  5. Struck, J.; Tao, C.; Morgenthaler, N.G.; Bergmann, A. Identification of an Adrenomedullin precursor fragment in plasma of sepsis patients. Peptides 2004, 25, 1369–1372. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  6. Kuan, W.S.; Ibrahim, I.; Chan, S.P.; Li, Z.; Liew, O.W.; Frampton, C.; Troughton, R.; Pemberton, C.J.; Chong, J.P.C.; Tan, L.L.; et al. Mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin outperforms N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide for the diagnosis of acute heart failure in the presence of atrial fibrillation. Eur. J. Heart Fail. 2020, 22, 692–700. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  7. Peacock, W.F. Novel biomarkers in acute heart failure: MR-pro-adrenomedullin. Clin. Chem. Lab. Med. 2014, 52, 1433–1435. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  8. Angeletti, S.; Spoto, S.; Fogolari, M.; Cortigiani, M.; Fioravanti, M.; De Florio, L.; Curcio, B.; Cavalieri, D.; Costantino, S.; Dicuonzo, G. Diagnostic and prognostic role of procalcitonin (PCT) and MR-pro-Adrenomedullin (MR-proADM) in bacterial infections. Apmis 2015, 123, 740–748. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  9. Fialek, B.; De Roquetaillade, C.; Pruc, M.; Navolokina, A.; Chirico, F.; Ladny, J.R.; Peacock, F.W.; Szarpak, L. Systematic review with meta-analysis of mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin (MR-proadm) as a prognostic marker in COVID-19-hospitalized patients. Ann. Med. 2023, 55, 379–387. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  10. Špinarová, M.; Špinar, J.; Špinarová, L.; Krejčí, J.; Goldbergová-Pávková, M.; Pařenica, J.; Ludka, O.; Malek, F.; Ošťádal, P.; Benešová, K.; et al. Relation between Mid-Regional Pro-Adrenomedullin in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure and the Dose of Diuretics in 2-Year Follow-Up—Data from FAR NHL Registry. Medicina 2022, 58, 1477. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  11. Spoto, S.; Argemi, J.; Di Costanzo, R.; Gavira Gomez, J.J.; Salterain Gonzales, N.; Basili, S.; Cangemi, R.; Abbate, A.; Locorriere, L.; Masini, F.; et al. Mid-Regional Pro-Adrenomedullin and N-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Measurement: A Multimarker Approach to Diagnosis and Prognosis in Acute Heart Failure. J. Pers. Med. 2023, 13, 1155. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  12. Cruciat, R.C.; Gazi, G.; Ismaiel, A.; Leucuta, D.-C.; Al Srouji, N.; Popa, S.-L.; Ismaiel, M.; Ensar, D.; Dumitrascu, D.L. Unlocking the potential of biomarkers: The promise of adrenomedullin and its precursors in diagnosing and assessing heart failure. Int. J. Cardiol. 2025, 418, 132659. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  13. Hindricks, G.; Potpara, T.; Dagres, N.; Arbelo, E.; Bax, J.J.; Blomström-Lundqvist, C.; Boriani, G.; Castella, M.; Dan, G.A.; Dilaveris, P.E.; et al. 2020 ESC Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation developed in collaboration with the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS): The Task Force for the diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Developed with the special contribution of the European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) of the ESC. Eur. Heart. J. 2020, 42, 373–498. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  14. Voors, A.A.; Kremer, D.; Geven, C.; Ter Maaten, J.M.; Struck, J.; Bergmann, A.; Pickkers, P.; Metra, M.; Mebazaa, A.; Düngen, H.D.; et al. Adrenomedullin in heart failure: Pathophysiology and therapeutic application. Eur. J. Heart Fail. 2019, 21, 163–171. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  15. Gar, C.; Thorand, B.; Herder, C.; Sujana, C.; Heier, M.; Meisinger, C.; Peters, A.; Koenig, W.; Rathmann, W.; Roden, M.; et al. Association of circulating MR-proADM with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in the general population: Results from the KORA F4 cohort study. PLoS ONE 2022, 17, e0262330. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  16. Marino, R.; Struck, J.; Maisel, A.S.; Magrini, L.; Bergmann, A.; Somma, S.D. Plasma adrenomedullin is associated with short-term mortality and vasopressor requirement in patients admitted with sepsis. Crit. Care 2014, 18, R34. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  17. Richards, A.M.; Doughty, R.; Nicholls, M.G.; MacMahon, S.; Sharpe, N.; Murphy, J.; Espiner, E.A.; Frampton, C.; Yandle, T.G. Plasma N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide and adrenomedullin. J. Am. Coll. Cardiol. 2001, 37, 1781–1787. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  18. Dobrev, D.; Aguilar, M.; Heijman, J.; Guichard, J.-B.; Nattel, S. Postoperative atrial fibrillation: Mechanisms, manifestations and management. Nat. Rev. Cardiol. 2019, 16, 417–436. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  19. Hofer, F.; Hammer, A.; Steininger, M.; Kazem, N.; Koller, L.; Steinlechner, B.; Laufer, G.; Andreas, M.; Marculescu, R.; Hengstenberg, C.; et al. The Prognostic Potential of Atrial Natriuretic Peptide on the Development of Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation after Cardiac Surgery. Thromb. Haemost. 2021, 121, 1523–1529. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  20. Richter, B.; Koller, L.; Hofer, F.; Kazem, N.; Hammer, A.; Silbert, B.I.; Laufer, G.; Steinlechner, B.; Wojta, J.; Hengstenberg, C.; et al. Galectin-3 is an independent predictor of postoperative atrial fibrillation and survival after elective cardiac surgery. Heart Rhythm. 2022, 19, 1774–1780. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  21. Kazem, N.; Hammer, A.; Koller, L.; Hofer, F.; Steinlechner, B.; Laufer, G.; Hengstenberg, C.; Wojta, J.; Sulzgruber, P.; Niessner, A. The Prognostic Potential of Growth Differentiation Factor-15 on Bleeding Events and Patient Outcome after Cardiac Surgery—A Prospective Cohort Study. Thromb. Haemost. 2022, 122, 703–714. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  22. Hofer, F.; Hammer, A.; Pailer, U.; Koller, L.; Kazem, N.; Steinacher, E.; Steinlechner, B.; Andreas, M.; Laufer, G.; Wojta, J.; et al. Relationship of Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 with Hospitalization for Heart Failure and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery. J. Am. Heart Assoc. 2023, 12, e027875. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  23. Schnabel, R.B.; Wild, P.S.; Wilde, S.; Ojeda, F.M.; Schulz, A.; Zeller, T.; Sinning, C.R.; Kunde, J.; Lackner, K.J.; Munzel, T.; et al. Multiple Biomarkers and Atrial Fibrillation in the General Population. PLoS ONE 2014, 9, e112486. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  24. Parwani, A.S.; von Haehling, S.; Kolodziejski, A.I.; Huemer, M.; Wutzler, A.; Attanasio, P.; Stojakovic, T.; Scharnagl, H.; Haverkamp, W.; Boldt, L.-H. Mid-regional proadrenomedullin levels predict recurrence of atrial fibrillation after catheter ablation. Int. J. Cardiol. 2015, 180, 129–133. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  25. Clayton, B.; Morgan-Hughes, G.; Roobottom, C. Transcatheter aortic valve insertion (TAVI): A review. Br. J. Radiol. 2014, 87, 20130595. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  26. Schoe, A.; Schippers, E.F.; Struck, J.; Ebmeyer, S.; Klautz, R.J.M.; de Jonge, E.; van Dissel, J.T. Postoperative Pro-Adrenomedullin Levels Predict Mortality in Thoracic Surgery Patients: Comparison with Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation IV Score. Crit. Care Med. 2015, 43, 373–381. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  27. Hillinger, P.; Mayr, V.D.; Luger, M.; Tauber, H.; Luckner, G.; Morgenthaler, N.G.; Dünser, M.; Jochberger, S. The course of adrenomedullin and endothelin levels in patients with vasodilatory shock after cardiac surgery compared to patients after uncomplicated elective cardiac surgery. J. Crit. Care 2022, 69, 154009. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  28. Baldenhofer, G.; Laule, M.; Mockel, M.; Sanad, W.; Knebel, F.; Dreger, H.; Leonhardt, F.; Sander, M.; Grubitzsch, H.; Baumann, G.; et al. Mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin (MR-proADM) and mid-regional pro-atrial natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP) in severe aortic valve stenosis: Association with outcome after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Clin. Chem. Lab. Med. 2017, 55, 275–283. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  29. Pousset, F.; Masson, F.; Chavirovskaia, O.; Isnard, R.; Carayon, A.; Golmard, J.L.; Lechat, P.; Thomas, D.; Komajda, M. Plasma adrenomedullin, a new independent predictor of prognosis in patients with chronic heart failure. Eur. Heart J. 2000, 21, 1009–1014. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  30. Gaudino, M.; Di Franco, A.; Rong, L.Q.; Piccini, J.; Mack, M. Postoperative atrial fibrillation: From mechanisms to treatment. Eur. Heart J. 2023, 44, 1020–1039. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  31. Stavrakis, S.; Humphrey, M.B.; Scherlag, B.; Iftikhar, O.; Parwani, P.; Abbas, M.; Filiberti, A.; Fleming, C.; Hu, Y.; Garabelli, P.; et al. Low-Level Vagus Nerve Stimulation Suppresses Post-Operative Atrial Fibrillation and Inflammation: A Randomized Study. JACC Clin. Electrophysiol. 2017, 3, 929–938. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  32. Trooboff, S.W.; Magnus, P.C.; Ross, C.S.; Chaisson, K.; Kramer, R.S.; Helm, R.E.; Desaulniers, H.; De La Rosa, R.C.; Westbrook, B.M.; Duquette, D.; et al. A multi-center analysis of readmission after cardiac surgery: Experience of The Northern New England Cardiovascular Disease Study Group. J. Card. Surg. 2019, 34, 655–662. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Figure 1. Study flow chart.
Figure 1. Study flow chart.
Jpm 15 00047 g001
Figure 2. Relationship between MR-proADM and CV outcomes. Risk groups for CV mortality were analyzed via CART analysis with Low Risk: MR-proADM ≤ 0.63 nmol/L, Intermediate Risk: MR-proADM > 0.63 nmol/L and ≤0.84 nmol/L, High Risk: MR-proADM > 0.84 nmol/L. Patients in the MR-proADM Low-Risk group were used as references. The Cox regression model has been adjusted for age, sex, type of surgery, diabetes mellitus, COPD, NT-pro BNP, Creatinine, and C-reactive protein. HHF = hospitalization for heart failure, CV = cardiovascular.
Figure 2. Relationship between MR-proADM and CV outcomes. Risk groups for CV mortality were analyzed via CART analysis with Low Risk: MR-proADM ≤ 0.63 nmol/L, Intermediate Risk: MR-proADM > 0.63 nmol/L and ≤0.84 nmol/L, High Risk: MR-proADM > 0.84 nmol/L. Patients in the MR-proADM Low-Risk group were used as references. The Cox regression model has been adjusted for age, sex, type of surgery, diabetes mellitus, COPD, NT-pro BNP, Creatinine, and C-reactive protein. HHF = hospitalization for heart failure, CV = cardiovascular.
Jpm 15 00047 g002
Figure 3. Kaplan–Meier curves and the corresponding 5-year Kaplan–Meier event rates for (A) the composite of HHF or CV death, (B) CV mortality, and (C) All-cause mortality stratified by MR-proADM Risk groups. Kaplan–Meier Curve with 5-year event rates of 8.6% in the Low-Risk group, 27.3% in the Intermediate Risk group, and 37.7% in the High-Risk group, p < 0.001. Kaplan–Meier Curve with 5-year event rates of 4.6% in the Low-Risk group, 20.8% in the Intermediate-Risk group, and 28.2% in the High-Risk group, p < 0.001. Kaplan–Meier Curve with 5-year event rates of 8.5% in the Low-Risk group, 24.8% in the Intermediate-Risk group, and 37.8% in the High-Risk group, p < 0.001.
Figure 3. Kaplan–Meier curves and the corresponding 5-year Kaplan–Meier event rates for (A) the composite of HHF or CV death, (B) CV mortality, and (C) All-cause mortality stratified by MR-proADM Risk groups. Kaplan–Meier Curve with 5-year event rates of 8.6% in the Low-Risk group, 27.3% in the Intermediate Risk group, and 37.7% in the High-Risk group, p < 0.001. Kaplan–Meier Curve with 5-year event rates of 4.6% in the Low-Risk group, 20.8% in the Intermediate-Risk group, and 28.2% in the High-Risk group, p < 0.001. Kaplan–Meier Curve with 5-year event rates of 8.5% in the Low-Risk group, 24.8% in the Intermediate-Risk group, and 37.8% in the High-Risk group, p < 0.001.
Jpm 15 00047 g003aJpm 15 00047 g003b
Table 1. Baseline characteristics.
Table 1. Baseline characteristics.
VariableAll Patients (n = 500)Low Risk (n = 300)Intermediate Risk (n = 100)High Risk (n = 100)p-Value
Clinical Presentation
Age, years (median, IQR)70 (61–76)67 (58–24)73 (66–78)72 (66–78)<0.001
Sex, female, (n, %)146 (29.2)82 (27.3)31 (31.0)33 (33.0)0.506
Body mass index, kg/m2 (median, IQR)27.2 (24.3–30.2)26.8 (24.1–29.7))27.7 (24.9–30.9)28.2 (24.3–30.9)0.095
Type of surgery
Valve replacement (n, %)214 (42.8)130 (43.3)43 (43.0)41 (41.0)0.919
CABG, (n, %)160 (32.0)109 (36.3)26 (26.0)25 (25.0)0.039
Valve replacement and CABG, (n, %)126 (25.2)61 (20.3)31 (31.0)34 (34.0)0.008
NYHA Class, (n, %) 0.059
I26 (9)15 (9.6)8 (12.5)3 (4.4)
II125 (43.3)79 (50.3)24 (37.5)22 (32.4)
III120 (41.5)55 (35.0)28 (43.8)37 (54.4)
IV18 (6.2)8 (5.1)4 (6.3)6 (8.8)
LVEF60 (54.2–60)60 (60–60)60 (50–60)55 (40–60)<0.001
Left atrial Diameter, mm (median, IQR)55 (45–65)55 (45–60)55 (45–65)60 (55–65)<0.001
CHA2DS2VASc score (median, IQR)4 (3–5)3 (2–4)4 (3–5)4 (4–5)<0.001
EuroSCORE II (median, IQR)2.3 (1.2–4.5)1.7 (1.0–2.8)2.7 (1.6–4.8)6.7 (3.2–12.2)<0.001
Comorbidities (n, %)
Coronary artery disease302 (60.4)178 (59.3)61 (61.0)63 (63.0)0.802
Previous MCI130 (26.0)69 (23.0)28 (28.0)33 (33.0)0.125
Hypertension405 (81.0)234 (78.0)84 (84.0)87 (87.0)0.096
Diabetes mellitus144 (28.8)69 (23.0)31 (31.0)44 (44.0)<0.001
Heart failure289 (57.8)157 (52.3)64 (64)68 (68)0.009
COPD69 (13.8)30 (10)14 (14)25 (25)<0.001
Current smoker61 (12.2)38 (12.7)10 (10.0)13 (13.0)0.751
Laboratory measures at admission
MR-proADM nmol/L (median, IQR)0.58 (0.44–0.79)0.48 (0.36–0.56)0.73 (0.67–0.79)1.12 (0.94–1.43)<0.001
NT-proBNP, pg/mL (median, IQR)539.6 (209.4–1455.0)324.3 (140.5–694.3)573.2 (241.7–1289.0)2116.0 (957.1–6062.0)<0.001
C-reactive protein, mg/dL (median, IQR)0.2 (0.1–0.5)0.2 (0.1–0.4)0.2 (0.1–0.5)0.4 (0.2–1.1)<0.001
Creatinine, mg/dL (median, IQR)0.95 (0.8–1.2)0.87 (0.75–1.0)1.04 (0.91–1.18)1.39 (1.16–1.87)<0.001
Baseline characteristics by MR-proADM risk groups with Low Risk: MR-proADM ≤ 0.6335 nmol/L, Intermediate Risk: MR-proADM > 0.6335 and ≤0.8382, High Risk: MR-proADM > 0.8382; IQR = Inter-Quartile Range, CABG = Coronary Artery Bypass Graft, NYHA = New York Heart Association, LVEF = Left ventricular ejection fraction, MCI = Myocardial Infarction, COPD = Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, NT-proBNP = N-terminal prohormone of brain natriuretic peptide.
Table 2. Hazard ratios for the primary and secondary endpoints adjusted for the EuroScore and CHA2DS2VASc score.
Table 2. Hazard ratios for the primary and secondary endpoints adjusted for the EuroScore and CHA2DS2VASc score.
HR95% CIp-Value
HHF/CV Mortality
MR-proADM1.771.23–2.550.002
Intermediate Risk2.341.30–4.240.005
High Risk2.761.52–5.02<0.001
CV Mortality
MR-proADM2.111.42–3.13<0.001
Intermediate Risk3.631.76–7.49<0.001
High Risk3.871.90–7.85<0.001
All-cause mortality
MRpro-ADM2.231.63–3.07<0.001
Intermediate Risk2.221.24–3.970.007
High Risk2.891.67–4.97<0.001
Risk groups were analyzed via CART analysis with Low Risk: MR-proADM ≤ 0.63 nmol/L, Intermediate Risk: MR-proADM > 0.63 nmol/L and ≤0.84 nmol/L, High Risk: MR-proADM > 0.84 nmol/L. Patients in the MR-proADM Low-Risk group were used as references. The Cox regression model has been adjusted for EuroScore and CHA2DS2VASc score. HHF = hospitalization for heart failure, CV = cardiovascular.
Table 3. Odds Ratios for POAF.
Table 3. Odds Ratios for POAF.
POAFOR95% CIp-Value
MR-proADM1.701.13–2.550.010
Intermediate Risk1.250.79–1.980.344
High Risk2.021.28–3.200.003
Risk groups were analyzed via CART analysis with Low Risk: MR-proADM ≤ 0.63 nmol/L, Intermediate Risk: MR-proADM > 0.63 nmol/L and ≤0.84 nmol/L, High Risk: MR-proADM > 0.84 nmol/L. Odds Ratios were assessed compared to the Low-Risk group; OR = Odds Ratio, POAF = postoperative atrial fibrillation.
Disclaimer/Publisher’s Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s). MDPI and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.

Share and Cite

MDPI and ACS Style

Baumer, U.; Kazem, N.; Hammer, A.; Hofer, F.; Steinacher, E.; Koller, L.; Zimpfer, D.; Andreas, M.; Steinlechner, B.; Hengstenberg, C.; et al. Mid-Regional Pro-Adrenomedullin Is Associated with Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes After Cardiac Surgery. J. Pers. Med. 2025, 15, 47. https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15020047

AMA Style

Baumer U, Kazem N, Hammer A, Hofer F, Steinacher E, Koller L, Zimpfer D, Andreas M, Steinlechner B, Hengstenberg C, et al. Mid-Regional Pro-Adrenomedullin Is Associated with Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes After Cardiac Surgery. Journal of Personalized Medicine. 2025; 15(2):47. https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15020047

Chicago/Turabian Style

Baumer, Ulrike, Niema Kazem, Andreas Hammer, Felix Hofer, Eva Steinacher, Lorenz Koller, Daniel Zimpfer, Martin Andreas, Barbara Steinlechner, Christian Hengstenberg, and et al. 2025. "Mid-Regional Pro-Adrenomedullin Is Associated with Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes After Cardiac Surgery" Journal of Personalized Medicine 15, no. 2: 47. https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15020047

APA Style

Baumer, U., Kazem, N., Hammer, A., Hofer, F., Steinacher, E., Koller, L., Zimpfer, D., Andreas, M., Steinlechner, B., Hengstenberg, C., Niessner, A., & Sulzgruber, P. (2025). Mid-Regional Pro-Adrenomedullin Is Associated with Adverse Cardiovascular Outcomes After Cardiac Surgery. Journal of Personalized Medicine, 15(2), 47. https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm15020047

Note that from the first issue of 2016, this journal uses article numbers instead of page numbers. See further details here.

Article Metrics

Back to TopTop