The impacts of armed conflict on outcomes of coronary angiography: report from Sudan’s hot war zone 2023-2024

OBJECTIVES: Coronary angiography and emergency coronary revascularizations are critical for decreasing morbidity and mortality linked to coronary artery disease. Establishing and maintaining this service in armed conflict and on the battlefield poses challenges; however, it remains achievable. This study aimed to evaluate the results of coronary angiography in Sudan amid the armed conflict of 2023-2024. METHODS: This study utilized a retrospective descriptive analysis conducted at El-Obeid International Hospital (Aldaman) in North Kordofan State, Sudan. Patient data was obtained from the hospital for the period spanning April 15, 2023, to April 30, 2024. RESULTS: Out of 314 diagnostic coronary angiograms, 32% had PCI with DES implantation, 18% showed normal coronary arteries, and the other 50% were treated with medication and advice from heart surgeons (CTC). Among the 100 patients who underwent PCI, 64% were male and 36% were female. The predominant age group was 50-59 years, succeeded by 60-69 years, under 50 years, and over 60 years, with incidence rates of 30%, 29.9%, 20.3%, and 18.2%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The offering of cardiac catheterization laboratory services amid armed conflict poses challenges but is nonetheless feasible. Despite the tragedy, constrained resources, and the impact of wartime conditions, our findings were consistent with prior reports both locally and globally.