Clinical Practice Variations in the Management of Ischemia With No Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease

Abstract

Background Ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease is a condition associated with major adverse cardiovascular outcomes. To date, there are no specific American Heart Association or American College of Cardiology guidelines. The objective of this survey is to better understand the clinical practice and knowledge gaps that exist nationally. Methods and Results Participant-specific links for a survey with 11 questions and 3 reminders were sent between September and October 2020 to the American College of Cardiology CardioSurve Panel. The panel consist of randomly selected cardiologists (n=437) who represent the current profile of the American College of Cardiology US membership. The survey received a 30% response rate. Of the 172 respondents, 130 (76%) indicated that they have treated patients with ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease. Although the majority (69%) are generally confident in their ability to manage this condition, 1 of 3 report lack of confidence or are neutral. The American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Chronic Stable Angina Guidelines are the most commonly used reference for treating ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease (81%), with most cardiologists wanting additional clinical guidance, such as randomized controlled trials (61%). More than 4 of 5 cardiologists rarely or never order advanced imaging modalities to assess coronary flow reserve. Approximately 2 of 3 of respondents frequently prescribe statins (68%), aspirin (66%), calcium channel blockers (63%), and β blockers or α/β blockers (55%). However, nearly 70% never prescribe angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers. Conclusions This survey demonstrates heterogeneity in the management of ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease among US cardiologists, identifies support for guideline development, and outlines knowledge gaps for research and education in the therapeutic management of this condition.

Keywords: angina; guidelines; ischemia with no obstructive coronary arteries; ischemic heart disease; nonobstructive; stable coronary syndromes.

Figure 1. Self‐reported confidence in managing stable patients with ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease.

Results reported by tenure level (early, mid, and late career) and by number of patients with INOCA seen in practice.

Figure 2. Frequency of diagnostic examinations ordered by cardiologists (n=130) for the evaluation of ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease.

CT indicates computed tomography; ECHO, echocardiography; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging; PET, positron emission tomography; and SPECT, single‐photon emission CT.

Figure 3. Prescribing practices among cardiologists (n=130) for management of ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease.

*Indicates ticagrelor or clopidogrel. ACE‐I indicates angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor; ARB, angiotensin receptor blocker; and REHAB, rehabilitation.