Abstract
BACKGROUND: Early coronary angiography (CAG) in post-cardiac arrest patients without ST-segment elevation is a topic of debate. This meta-analysis aimed to assess its impact on outcomes. METHODS: A search of Medline and Cochrane up to February 2023 was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing patients undergoing early CAG vs. delayed/no CAG after experiencing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. A random-effects model pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Meta-regression explored factors modifying effect sizes. RESULTS: We identified 16 studies (7 RCTs, 9 observational studies) involving 4,737 patients. Early CAG significantly reduced long-term mortality [OR: 0.66 (0.51-0.85)], and increased favorable cerebral performance category (CPC) 1-2 at discharge [OR: 1.49 (1.09-2.03)]. Observational study subgroup showed decreased short-term mortality, long-term mortality, and CPC 1-2 at discharge, unlike RCT subgroup. Meta-regression revealed type 2 diabetes mellitus and follow-up time influencing short-term mortality and CPC 1-2 at discharge, respectively. CONCLUSION: Early CAG in post-cardiac arrest patients without ST elevation is associated with long-term clinical benefits, particularly evident in observational studies. Interpretation should be cautious.