Saturday, October 15, 2011

EMBASE Cardiac Update AutoAlert: EPICORE Cardiac Surgery Blogger2

Total documents retrieved: 14

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Embase <1980 to 2011 Week 41>
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<1>
Accession Number
2011528606
Authors
Schoettler J. Jussli-Melchers J. Grothusen C. Stracke L. Schoeneich F.
Stohn S. Hoffmann G. Cremer J.
Institution
(Schoettler, Jussli-Melchers, Grothusen, Schoeneich, Stohn, Hoffmann,
Cremer) Department of Cardiovascular Surgery,
Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Campus Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Strase
3, Haus 18, 24105 Kiel, Germany
(Stracke) Department of Internal Medicine III, Cardiology and Angiology,
Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
Title
Highly flexible nitinol mesh to encase aortocoronary saphenous vein
grafts: First clinical experiences and angiographic results nine months
postoperatively.
Source
Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery. 13 (4) (pp 396-400),
2011. Date of Publication: September 2011.
Publisher
European Association for Cardio-Thoracis Surgery (3 Park Street, Windsor,
Berkshire SL4 1LU, United Kingdom)
Abstract
Saphenous vein graft patency is frequently limited by degeneration.
Experimental studies have indicated that rigid external support of venous
grafts by a flexible, tubular nitinol mesh may improve graft patency. The
study presented was part of a prospective, randomized, multicenter
first-in-man trial investigating the safety and effectiveness of
nitinol-supported venous grafts in coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)
surgery. From our clinic, 25 subjects with multivessel coronary artery
disease requiring saphenous vein graft CABG of the right coronary artery
(RCA) and the circumflex artery were entered into the trial. Subjects were
randomized to receive a mesh-supported graft on one of these arteries; the
other vessel received an untreated vein graft. Graft patency was assessed
by coronary angiography nine months after surgery. The implantation of
mesh grafts was simple and safe. In 10 cases, a nitinol mesh-supported
venous graft was anastomosed to the circumflex artery and in 15 cases to
the RCA. All patients survived the observation period. A total of 72% of
the patients underwent control coronary angiography. The patency rate of
mesh-supported grafts was 27.8% nine months postoperatively. Conventional
vein grafts showed an 85.7% patency, and arterial grafts had a 100%
patency. No complications directly related to the implantation of
mesh-supported grafts were observed. The promising experimental results of
mesh-supported venous grafts could not be reproduced in the study
presented. A critical item seems to be correct selection of nitinol mesh
diameter, the anastomotic method and fixation of the mesh tube to the
venous graft. 2011 Published by European Association for Cardio-Thoracic
Surgery. All rights reserved.

<2>
Accession Number
2011527981
Authors
Capodanno D. Stone G.W. Morice M.C. Bass T.A. Tamburino C.
Institution
(Capodanno, Tamburino) Ferrarotto Hospital, ETNA Foundation, Via Citelli
6, 95124 Catania, Italy
(Stone) Columbia University, Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research
Foundation, New York, NY, United States
(Morice) Institut Hospitalier Jacques Cartier, Massy, France
(Bass) University of Florida, Shands College of Medicine, Jacksonville,
FL, United States
Title
Percutaneous coronary intervention versus coronary artery bypass graft
surgery in left main coronary artery disease: A meta-analysis of
randomized clinical data.
Source
Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 58 (14) (pp 1426-1432),
2011. Date of Publication: 27 Sep 2011.
Publisher
Elsevier USA (6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando FL 32862 8239, United States)
Abstract
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the safety and
efficacy of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) compared with
coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) in patients with left main coronary
artery (LMCA) disease. Background: Previous meta-analyses of PCI versus
CABG in LMCA disease mainly included nonprospective, observational
studies. Several new randomized trials have recently been reported.
Methods: We identified 1,611 patients from 4 randomized clinical trials
for the present meta-analysis. The primary endpoint was the 1-year
incidence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE),
defined as death, myocardial infarction (MI), target vessel
revascularization (TVR), or stroke. Results: PCI was associated with a
nonsignificantly higher 1-year rate of MACCE compared with CABG (14.5% vs.
11.8%; odds ratio [OR]: 1.28; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.95 to 1.72;
p = 0.11), driven by increased TVR (11.4% vs. 5.4%; OR: 2.25; 95% CI: 1.54
to 3.29; p < 0.001). Conversely, stroke occurred less frequently with PCI
(0.1% vs. 1.7%; OR: 0.15; 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.67; p = 0.013). There were no
significant differences in death (3.0% vs. 4.1%; OR: 0.74; 95% CI: 0.43 to
1.29; p = 0.29) or MI (2.8% vs. 2.9%; OR: 0.98; 95% CI: 0.54 to 1.78; p =
0.95). Conclusions: In patients with LMCA disease, PCI was associated with
nonsignificantly different 1-year rates of MACCE, death, and MI, a lower
risk of stroke, and a higher risk of TVR compared with CABG. 2011
American College of Cardiology Foundation.

<3>
Accession Number
2011546893
Authors
Navarese E.P. De Luca G. Castriota F. Kozinski M. Gurbel P.A. Gibson C.M.
Andreotti F. Buffon A. Siller-Matula J.M. Sukiennik A. De Servi S. Kubica
J.
Institution
(Navarese, Kozinski, Sukiennik, Kubica) Department of Cardiology and
Internal Medicine, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum, Nicolaus Copernicus
University, Bydgoszcz, Poland
(De Luca) Department of Cardiology, Maggiore della Carita Hospital,
Eastern Piedmont University A. Avogadro, Novara, Italy
(Castriota) Interventional Cardio-Angiology Unit, GVM Care and Research,
Cotignola, Italy
(Gurbel) Sinai Center for Thrombosis Research, Sinai Hospital of
Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, United States
(Gibson) Institute of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center,
Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
(Andreotti, Buffon) Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Catholic
University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
(Siller-Matula) Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Vienna,
Vienna, Austria
(De Servi) Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Civic Hospital, Legnano,
Italy
Title
Low-molecular-weight heparins vs. unfractionated heparin in the setting of
percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-elevation myocardial infarction:
A meta-analysis.
Source
Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis. 9 (10) (pp 1902-1915), 2011. Date
of Publication: October 2011.
Publisher
Blackwell Publishing Ltd (9600 Garsington Road, Oxford OX4 2XG, United
Kingdom)
Abstract
Background: The aim of the current study was to perform two separate
meta-analyses of available studies comparing low-molecular-weight heparins
(LMWHs) vs. unfractionated heparin (UFH) in ST-elevation myocardial
infarction (STEMI) patients treated (i) with primary percutaneous coronary
intervention (pPCI) or (ii) with PCI after thrombolysis. Methods:
All-cause mortality was the pre-specified primary endpoint and major
bleeding complications were recorded as the secondary endpoints. Relative
risk (RR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and absolute risk reduction
(ARR) were chosen as the effect measure. Results: Ten studies comprising
16286 patients were included. The median follow-up was 2months for the
primary endpoint. Among LMWHs, enoxaparin was the compound most frequently
used. In the pPCI group, LMWHs were associated with a reduction in
mortality [RR (95% CI)=0.51 (0.41-0.64), P<0.001, ARR=3%] and major
bleeding [RR (95% CI)=0.68 (0.49-0.94), P=0.02, ARR=2.0%] as compared with
UFH. Conversely, no clear evidence of benefits with LWMHs was observed in
the PCI group after thrombolysis. Meta-regression showed that patients
with a higher baseline risk had greater benefits from LMWHs (r=0.72,
P=0.02). Conclusions: LMWHs were associated with greater efficacy and
safety than UFH in STEMI patients treated with pPCI, with a significant
relationship between risk profile and clinical benefits. Based on this
meta-analysis, LMWHs may be considered as a preferred anticoagulant among
STEMI patients undergoing pPCI. 2011 International Society on Thrombosis
and Haemostasis.

<4>
Accession Number
2011542274
Authors
Vhsilta T. Malmberg M. Saraste A. Koskenvuo J.W. Prkk J.P. Valtonen M.
Leino K. Nuutila K. Saukko P. Kuttila K. Savunen T.
Institution
(Vhsilta, Malmberg, Kuttila, Savunen) Department of Surgery, Turku
University Hospital, University of Turku, Munkkiniemen Puistotie 18B 46,
Helsinki 00330, Finland
(Saraste) Department of Medicine, Turku University Hospital, University of
Turku, Turku, Finland
(Koskenvuo, Prkk) Department of Clinical Physiology, Nuclear Medicine,
Turku University Hospital, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
(Valtonen, Leino) Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care ,Emergency
Care, and Pain Medicine, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
(Nuutila, Saukko) Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Turku,
Turku, Finland
Title
Cardiomyocyte apoptosis after antegrade and retrograde cardioplegia during
aortic valve surgery.
Source
Annals of Thoracic Surgery. 92 (4) (pp 1351-1357), 2011. Date of
Publication: October 2011.
Publisher
Elsevier USA (6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando FL 32862 8239, United States)
Abstract
Background: Retrograde delivery is associated with inadequate perfusion of
cardioplegia to all regions of the heart, but the effects on cardiomyocyte
death and functional outcome remain unknown. We compared antegrade and
retrograde cardioplegia in a randomized clinical trial to see whether it
has effect on cardiomyocyte apoptosis and left ventricular function.
Methods: Patients underwent elective aortic valve replacement surgery due
to aortic valve stenosis. They were randomly allocated to receive
antegrade (n = 10) or retrograde (n = 10) cardioplegia. Apoptotic
cardiomyocytes (terminal transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling,
caspase activation) and RNA levels of apoptosis-regulating proteins were
studied in transmyocardial biopsies obtained before and after the
operation. Magnetic resonance imaging and transesophageal echocardiography
were performed, and cardiac enzymes were measured. Results: Clinical
outcome and cardiac enzyme release were comparable between the groups.
Cardiomyocyte apoptosis was significantly increased (terminal
transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling) in the left ventricle after
the operation in the retrograde, but not in the antegrade group
(respectively, 0.00% [0.039%] versus 0.092% [0.205%], p = 0.01; and 0.00%
[0.00%] versus 0.023% [0.054%], p = 0.14). Expression of
apoptosis-regulating proteins BAX, BAD, and BCL-2 were comparable between
groups. By transesophageal echocardiography, the systolic mitral annulus
movement was decreased immediately after the operation in the retrograde
group. By magnetic resonance imaging, the left ventricle mass index was
reduced preoperatively to 9 months postoperatively in the antegrade group.
Conclusions: In contrast to antegrade cardioplegia, retrograde
cardioplegia is associated with increased cardiomyocyte apoptosis,
impaired immediate postoperative systolic function, and lack of long-term
favorable left ventricle remodeling after aortic valve replacement,
suggesting inadequate myocardial protection. 2011 The Society of Thoracic
Surgeons.

<5>
Accession Number
2011542264
Authors
Li J. Zheng J. Bai T. Liu Y. Wang X. Liu N. Cheng L. Chen Y. Zhang H.
Institution
(Li, Liu, Zheng, Bai, Liu, Wang, Liu, Cheng, Chen, Zhang) Department of
Cardiac Surgery, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University,
Anzhenli of Chaoyang District, Beijing 100029, China
Title
The patency of sequential and individual vein coronary bypass grafts: A
systematic review.
Source
Annals of Thoracic Surgery. 92 (4) (pp 1292-1298), 2011. Date of
Publication: October 2011.
Publisher
Elsevier USA (6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando FL 32862 8239, United States)
Abstract
Background: Saphenous vein grafts continue to be the backbone of daily
coronary revascularization practice, but controversy still exists about
whether to use them as an individual or sequential graft. We undertook a
systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies to compare the
midterm or long-term patency of sequential vein coronary bypass grafts
with those of vein grafts. Methods: A comprehensive search strategy was
run in PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and the Chinese Biomedical
Literature Database. Inclusion criteria were the following: (1) two
cohorts of patients received sequential and single saphenous vein coronary
bypass grafting, respectively; (2) prospective or retrospective cohort
design; and (3) graft patency examined by angiography or ultrafast
computed tomography. Two researchers independently performed the
literature search, data extraction, and quality assessment. Results: We
identified 1,385 titles, reviewed 38 articles for inclusion criteria, and
included 12 studies in the meta-analysis. The risk of occlusion in
sequential grafts was lower (risk ratio [RR] = 0.67, 95% confidence
interval [CI] 0.60 to 0.74) than that in single grafts. The risk of
occlusion in side-to-side anastomoses was lower (RR = 0.52; 95% CI, 0.34
to 0.80) than that of end-to-side anastomoses for sequential vein grafts.
There was no difference in occlusion between the distal end-to-side
anastomoses of sequential vein grafts and those of single vein grafts (RR
= 0.85; 95% CI, 0.68 to 1.06). Conclusions: The midterm and long-term
patency of sequential vein grafts appears to be better than that of single
vein grafts and the patency of side-to-side anastomoses appears to be
better than that of end-to-side anastomoses for sequential vein grafts.
2011 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.

<6>
Accession Number
2011540281
Authors
Zhou Y.-H. Tang J.-Y. Wu M.-J. Lu J. Wei X. Qin Y.-Y. Wang C. Xu J.-F. He
J.
Institution
(Zhou, Wu, Lu, Qin, Wang, Xu, He) Department of Health Statistics, Second
Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
(Tang) Office of Compliance and Development, Center for Drug Evaluation,
SFDA, Beijing, China
(Wei) Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
Title
Effect of folic acid supplementation on cardiovascular outcomes: A
systematic review and meta-analysis.
Source
PLoS ONE. 6 (9) , 2011. Article Number: e25142. Date of Publication: 28
Sep 2011.
Publisher
Public Library of Science (185 Berry Street, Suite 1300, San Francisco CA
94107, United States)
Abstract
Background: Folic acid is widely used to lower homocysteine concentrations
and prevent adverse cardiovascular outcomes. However, the effect of folic
acid on cardiovascular events is not clear at the present time. We carried
out a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the
effects of folic acid supplementation on cardiovascular outcomes.
Methodology and Principal Findings: We systematically searched Medline,
EmBase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, reference
lists of articles, and proceedings of major meetings for relevant
literature. We included randomized placebo-controlled trials that reported
on the effects of folic acid on cardiovascular events compared to placebo.
Of 1594 identified studies, we included 16 trials reporting data on 44841
patients. These studies reported 8238 major cardiovascular events, 2001
strokes, 2917 myocardial infarctions, and 6314 deaths. Folic acid
supplementation as compared to placebo had no effect on major
cardiovascular events (RR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.93-1.04), stroke (RR, 0.89; 95%
CI,0.78-1.01), myocardial infarction (RR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.93-1.07), or
deaths from any cause (RR, 1.00;95% CI, 0.96-1.05). Moreover, folic acid
as compared to placebo also had no effect on the following secondary
outcomes: risk of revascularization (RR, 1.05; 95%CI, 0.95-1.16), acute
coronary syndrome (RR, 1.06; 95%CI, 0.97-1.15), cancer (RR, 1.08; 95%CI,
0.98-1.21), vascular death (RR, 0.94; 95%CI,0.88-1.02), or non-vascular
death (RR, 1.06; 95%CI, 0.97-1.15). Conclusion/Significance: Folic acid
supplementation does not effect on the incidence of major cardiovascular
events, stroke, myocardial infarction or all cause mortality. 2011 Zhou
et al.

<7>
Accession Number
2011537753
Authors
Ucak A. Ugur M. Onan B. Arslan G. Alp I. Ulusoy E. Yilmaz A.T.
Institution
(Ucak, Ugur, Onan, Arslan, Alp, Yilmaz) Department of Cardiovascular
Surgery, GATA Haydarpasa Education Hospital, Kalp ve Damar Cerrahisi
Klinigi, Tibbiye Caddesi, Uskudar, Istanbul, 34668, Turkey
(Ulusoy) Department of Cardiology, GATA Haydarpasa Education Hospital,
Istanbul, Turkey
Title
Conventional versus complete chordal-sparing mitral valve replacement: Eff
ects on left ventricular function and end-systolic stress.
Source
Acta Cardiologica. 66 (5) (pp 627-634), 2011. Date of Publication: 2011.
Publisher
Acta Cardiologica (Weldadigheidsstraat 49, Leuven B-3000, Belgium)
Abstract
Background This study aims to assess the eff ects of bileafl et
preservation versus conventional technique during mitral valve replacement
(MVR) on left ventricular functions and end-systolic stress (ESS). Methods
Between September 2005 and January 2009, sixty-fi ve patients with mitral
regurgitation underwent MVR surgery. In a non-randomized fashion, 34
patients had conventional MVR without chordal/leafl et preservation (group
I, c-MVR), and 31 had MVR with total chordal/bileafl et preservation
(group II, b-MVR). A prospective clinical and echocardiographic follow-up
of patients was performed preoperatively, at 3 months and by 1 year
postoperatively. Results Left ventricular end-systolic/end-diastolic
dimensions and volumes decreased by 1 year in the b-MVR group. Left
ventricular ESS decreased only in the bileafl et sparing MVR group after
surgery, and this decrease was signifi cant by 1 year, compared with the
c-MVR group (P = 0.008). Left atrial diameter signifi cantly decreased in
both groups. Only one patient died, due to posterior wall rupture after a
c-MVR procedure. One patient undergoing a b-MVR procedure needed
re-operation because of prosthetic valve endocarditis. Conclusion Bileafl
et preservation during MVR has a benefi cial eff ect on left ventricular
function, compared with conventional MVR. Left ventricular ESS improves
after bileafl et-sparing MVR and may be an important indicator of
myocardial function after mitral valve surgery.

<8>
Accession Number
2011534697
Authors
Gibbons C. Bruce J. Carpenter J. Wilson A.P. Wilson J. Pearson A. Lamping
D.L. Krukowski Z.H. Reeves B.C.
Institution
(Gibbons, Carpenter, Lamping) London School of Hygiene and Tropical
Medicine, London, United Kingdom
(Bruce) University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
(Wilson) University College London, London, United Kingdom
(Wilson) Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom
(Pearson) Health Protection Agency, London, United Kingdom
(Krukowski) Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
(Reeves) University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
Title
Identification of risk factors by systematic review and development of
risk-adjusted models for surgical site infection.
Source
Health Technology Assessment. 15 (30) (pp 3-156), 2011. Date of
Publication: September 2011.
Publisher
National Co-ordinating Centre for HTA (Bouldrewood, Mail Point 728,
Highfield, Southhampton, United Kingdom)
Abstract
Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) are complications of surgery
that cause significant postoperative morbidity. SSI has been proposed as a
potential indicator of the quality of care in the context of clinical
governance and monitoring of the performance of NHS organisations against
targets. Objectives: We aimed to address a number of objectives. Firstly,
identify risk factors for SSI, criteria for stratifying surgical
procedures and evidence about the importance of postdischarge surveillance
(PDS). Secondly, test the importance of risk factors for SSI in
surveillance databases and investigate interactions between risk factors.
Thirdly, investigate and validate different definitions of SSI. Lastly,
develop models for making risk adjusted comparisons between hospitals.
Data sources: A single hospital surveillance database was used to address
objectives 2 and 3 and the UK Surgical Site Infection Surveillance Service
database to address objective 4. Study design: There were four elements to
the research: (1) systematic reviews of risk factors for SSI (two
reviewers assessed titles and abstracts of studies identified by the
search strategy and the quality of studies was assessed using the
Newcastle Ottawa Scale); (2) assessment of agreement between four SSI
definitions; (3) validation of definitions of SSI, quantifying their
ability to predict clinical outcomes; and (4) development of
operation-specific risk models for SSI, with hospitals fitted as random
effects. Results: Reviews of SSI risk factors other than established SSI
risk indices identified other risk; some were operation specific, but
others applied to multiple operations. The factor most commonly identified
was duration of preoperative hospital stay. The review of PDS for SSI
confirmed the need for PDS if SSIs are to be compared meaningfully over
time within an institution. There was wide variation in SSI rate (SSI%)
using different definitions. Over twice as many wounds were classified as
infected by one definition only as were classified as infected by both.
Different SSI definitions also classified different wounds as being
infected. The two most established SSI definitions had broadly similar
ability to predict the chosen clinical outcomes. This finding is
paradoxical given the poor agreement between definitions. Elements of each
definition not common to both may be important in predicting clinical
outcomes or outcomes may depend on only a subset of elements which are
common to both. Risk factors fitted in multivariable models and their
effects, including age and gender, varied by surgical procedure. Operative
duration was an important risk factor for all operations, except for hip
replacement. Wound class was included least often because some wound
classes were not applicable to all operations or were combined because of
small numbers. The American Association of Anesthesiologists class was a
consistent risk factor for most operations. Conclusions: The research
literature does not allow surgery-specific or generic risk factors to be
defined. SSI definitions varied between surveillance programmes and
potentially between hospitals. Different definitions do not have good
agreement, but the definitions have similar ability to predict outcomes
influenced by SSI. Associations between components of the National
Nosocomial Infections Surveillance risk index and odds of SSI varied for
different surgical procedures. There was no evidence for effect
modification by hospital. Estimates of SSI% should be disseminated within
institutions to inform infection control. Estimates of SSI% across
institutions or countries should be interpreted cautiously and should not
be assumed to reflect quality of medical care. Future research should
focus on developing an SSI definition that has satisfactory psychometric
properties, that can be applied in everyday clinical settings, includes
PDS and is formulated to detect SSIs that are important to patients or
health services. Queen's Printer and Controller of HMSO 2011.

<9>
Accession Number
2011531756
Authors
Lee J.S. Ahn S.W. Song J.W. Shim J.K. Yoo K.-J. lan Kwak Y.
Institution
(Lee, Song, Shim, Yoo, lan Kwak) Department of Anesthesiology and Pain
Medicine, South Korea
(Yoo) Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, South Korea
(Shim, lan Kwak) Anesthesia and Pain Research, South Korea
(Shim, Yoo, lan Kwak) Cardiovascular Research Institute, South Korea
(lan Kwak) Severance Biomedical Science Institute, South Korea
(Ahn) Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Department of
Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Kwangdong University College of
Medicine, Goyang, South Korea
Title
Effect of Hydroxyethyl Starch 130/0.4 on Blood loss and Coagulation in
patients with recent exposure to dual antiplatelet Therapy undergoing
off-pump Coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
Source
Circulation Journal. 75 (10) (pp 2397-2402), 2011. Date of Publication:
October 2011.
Publisher
Japanese Circulation Society (14 Yoshida Kawaharacho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606,
Japan)
Abstract
Background: Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) solutions are often used for
maintaining intravascular volume and improving microperfusion, while a
large amount of HES can cause adverse effects on coagulation. As the
indications for clopidogrel expand, an increasing number of patients
undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery (OPCAB) are also
undergoing dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), with its higher risk of
bleeding complications. The aim of the present study was to determine
whether a moderate dose of 6% HES 130/0.4 significantly increases
perioperative blood loss in patients with continued DAPT within 5 days of
OPCAB. Methods and Results: Patients who received clopidogrel and aspirin
within 5 days of OPCAB were randomly allocated to receive HES 130/0.4
(<=30 ml/kg) followed by crystalloid infusion (HES group, n=53), or
crystalloid only (crystalloid group, n=53) perioperatively. The amount of
perioperative blood loss (sum of bleeding during the intraoperative and
postoperative 24-h period), transfusion requirements, modified
thromboelastography and coagulation variables, hemodynamic parameters, and
fluid balance were recorded. Perioperative blood loss and coagulation
profiles were similar between the groups, but the postoperative hemoglobin
level was higher in the crystalloid group. Conclusions: Up to 30
ml.kg<sup>-1</sup> day<sup>-1</sup> of 6% HES 130/0.4 did not increase
the perioperative blood loss compared to crystalloid in patients with
recent exposure to DAPT undergoing OPCAB. HES 130/0.4 caused a similar
degree and duration of coagulation impairment as observed when only
crystalloid was given. All rights are reserved to the Japanese
Circulation Society.

<10>
Accession Number
2011540483
Authors
Forouzannia S.K. Abdollahi M.H. Mirhosseini S.J. Hosseini H. Moshtaghion
S.H. Golzar A. Naserzadeh N. Ghoraishian S.M. Meybodi T.E.
Institution
(Forouzannia, Abdollahi, Mirhosseini, Hosseini, Moshtaghion, Golzar,
Naserzadeh, Ghoraishian, Meybodi) Cardiovascular Research Center, Afshar
Hospital, Shahid Sadooghi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran,
Islamic Republic of
Title
Clinical outcome and cost in patients with off-pump vs. On-pump coronary
artery bypass surgery.
Source
Acta Medica Iranica. 49 (7) (pp 414-419), 2011. Date of Publication:
2011.
Publisher
Medical Sciences University of Teheran (Poursina St, Teheran 14-174, Iran,
Islamic Republic of)
Abstract
General concept and major emphasis on off-pump coronary artery bypass
surgery (OPCAB) is maintaining quality of care and patient safety while
reducing cost and resource utilization. OPCAB probably avoids the
potential complications of cardiopulmonary bypass. However its acceptance
depends on clinical and economic outcome. The aim of this study is to
compare clinical and economic outcome of off-pump and on pump coronary
artery bypass surgery. This is a report of an analytic cross-sectional
study on 304 patients underwent coronary artery bypass surgery that were
randomized into conventional on pump and off-pump groups. Variables and
costs were obtained for each group and these data were analyzed using
parametric methods. There was no difference between the two groups with
respect to perioperative and intraoperative patient's variables. OPCAB
reduced the need for postoperative transfusion requirement (P<0.05) which
was statistically significant and showed a trend towards reduction of
morbidity although didn't reach statistical significance (P>0.05). There
were no statistically significant differences in surgical re exploration
and length of stay between the two groups. The mean cost for an on pump
surgery was 8312000 +/- 2859 Rials per patient that was significantly
higher than an off-pump surgery. Based on the findings of this study,
clinical outcome has no statistically significant difference between on
pump and off-pump CABG but the costs are significantly higher in the on
pump group. 2011 Tehran University of Medical Sciences.

<11>
Accession Number
2011537310
Authors
Harling L. Rasoli S. Vecht J.A. Ashrafian H. Kourliouros A. Athanasiou T.
Institution
(Harling, Rasoli, Vecht, Ashrafian, Kourliouros, Athanasiou) Department of
Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, St Mary's Hospital, London W2
1NY, United Kingdom
Title
Do antioxidant vitamins have an anti-arrhythmic effect following cardiac
surgery? A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.
Source
Heart. 97 (20) (pp 1636-1642), 2011. Date of Publication: October 2011.
Publisher
BMJ Publishing Group (Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9JR, United Kingdom)
Abstract
Background: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) affects approximately
30% of patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. While its
pathogenesis is multifactorial, increasing evidence supports a role for
oxidative stress in the electrophysiological remodelling associated with
AF. Although prophylactic antioxidants appear to be a potentially
attractive pharmacotherapy, there is still uncertainty regarding their
efficacy. This study aims to provide a quantitative summary of the current
evidence surrounding antioxidant vitamins and POAF prevention. Methods: A
systematic literature review identified five randomised controlled trials
incorporating 567 patients (n=284 antioxidant, n=283 control). These were
metaanalysed using random effects modelling. Heterogeneity, subgroup
analysis, quality scoring and risk of bias were assessed. Primary
endpoints were the incidence of POAF and all-cause arrhythmia. Secondary
endpoints were length of stay in the intensive care unit (ITU) and length
of hospital stay. Results: Vitamins C and E significantly reduced the
incidence of POAF (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.89) and all-cause arrhythmia
(OR 0.54, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.99) compared with controls. A significant
reduction in both ITU stay (weighted mean difference (WMD) -0.44, 95% CI
-0.70 to -0.17) and hospital stay (WMD -1.11, 95% CI -1.70 to -0.52) was
also seen in the antioxidant group, without significant heterogeneity.
Conclusions: The prophylactic use of vitamins C and E may significantly
reduce the incidence of POAF and all-cause arrhythmia following cardiac
surgery. However, the overall quality of current studies is poor and
further research should focus on adequately powered randomised controlled
trials that standardise AF reporting, antioxidant protocol and the use of
concomitant agents. Cost analysis should be considered to establish the
potential economic benefit of antioxidant vitamin prophylaxis in POAF.

<12>
Accession Number
2011526676
Authors
Adel W. Nammas W.
Institution
(Adel, Nammas) Cardiology Department, Ain Shams University, Ain Shams
University Hospital, PO Box 11381, Abbassia, Cairo, Egypt
Title
Predictors of contractile recovery after revascularization in patients
with anterior myocardial infarction who received thrombolysis.
Source
International Journal of Angiology. 19 (2) (pp e78-e82), 2010. Date of
Publication: June 2010.
Publisher
Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc. (333 7th Avenue, New York NY 10001-5004,
United States)
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Identification of viable myocardium after myocardial
infarction has gained paramount importance with the current progress in
coronary revascularization. OBJECTIVE: To explore the prognostic power of
certain patient characteristics to predict myocardial contractile recovery
after revascularization in patients presenting with acute anterior ST
elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who received thrombolytic therapy.
METHODS: Seventy-three consecutive patients presenting with first acute
anterior STEMI who had received thrombolytic therapy and had significant
coronary stenosis or occlusion of the infarctrelated artery amenable for
revascularization were enrolled. All patients underwent echocardiographic
assessment of regional wall motion and left ventricular ejection fraction.
Patients underwent coronary revascularization by either percutaneous
angioplasty or surgical bypass. Echocardiography was repeated two to three
months following revascularization. Patients were classified into two
groups: group 1 had evidence of contractile recovery after
revascularization at follow-up echocardiography and group 2 had no such
evidence of recovery. RESULTS: Predictors of contractile recovery after
revascularization included a shorter time from symptom onset to the
institution of thrombolytic therapy, a lower baseline wall motion score
index, the presence of grade 3 collaterals to the infarct-related artery
and the use of beta-blockers. Instead, the presence of diabetes mellitus
and a totally occluded infarct-related artery predicted poor contractile
recovery. CONCLUSIONS: Myocardial contractile recovery after
revascularization in patients presenting with first acute anterior STEMI
may be predicted by the absence of diabetes, a shorter time from symptom
onset to thrombolytic therapy, the use of beta-blockers, a lower initial
wall motion index score and the presence of collaterals to the
infarctrelated artery. 2009 Pulsus Group Inc. All rights reserved.

<13>
Accession Number
21483189
Authors
Hessami M.A. Najafi F. Hatami S.
Institution
(Hessami) Department of Surgery, Kermanshah University of Medical
Sciences, Iran.
Title
Volume threshold for chest tube removal: a randomized controlled trial.
Source
Journal of injury & violence research. 1 (1) (pp 33-36), 2009. Date of
Publication: Jul 2009.
Abstract
Despite importance of chest tube insertion in chest trauma, there is no
general agreement on the level of daily volume drainage from chest tube.
This study was conducted to compare the effectiveness and safety of chest
tube removal at the levels of 150 ml/day and 200 ml/day. Eligible patients
(138) who needed replacement of chest tube (because of trauma or
malignancy) were randomized into two groups; control (removal of chest
tube when drainage reached to 150 ml/day) and trial (removal of chest tube
at the level of 200 ml/day). All patients received standard care during
hospital admission and a follow-up visit after 7 days of discharge from
hospital. Patients were then compared in terms of major clinical outcomes
using chi-squared and t-test. From the total of 138 patients, 70 and 68
patients were randomized to control (G150) and trial (G200) group,
respectively. Baseline characteristics were comparable between the two
groups. Although the trial group had a shorter mean for length of hospital
stay (LOS) (4.1 compared to 4.8, p=0.04), their differences in drainage
time did not reach to the level of statistical significance (p=0.1).
Analysis of data showed no statistically significant differences between
the rate of radiological reaccumulation, thoracentesis and decrease in
pulmonary sounds (auscultatory), one week after discharge from hospital.
Compared to a daily volume drainage of 150 ml, removal of chest tube when
there is 200 ml/day is safe and will even result in a shorter hospital
stay. This in turn leads to a lower cost.

<14>
Accession Number
70548812
Authors
Von Meyenfeldt E.M. Gooiker G.A. Van Gijn W. Post P.N. Van De Velde C.J.H.
Tollenaar R.A.E.M. Klomp H.M. Wouters M.W.J.M.
Institution
(Von Meyenfeldt, Klomp, Wouters) Netherlands Cancer Institute - Antoni van
Leeuwenhoek Hospital, Department of Surgical Oncology/Thoracic Surgery,
Amsterdam, Netherlands
(Gooiker, Van Gijn, Van De Velde, Tollenaar) Leiden University Medical
Center, Department of Surgery, Leiden, Netherlands
(Post) Dutch Institute for Healthcare Improvement, CBO, Utrecht,
Netherlands
Title
The relationship between volume or surgeon specialty and outcome in the
surgical treatment of lung cancer - A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Source
European Journal of Cancer. Conference: 2011 European Multidisciplinary
Cancer Congress Stockholm Sweden. Conference Start: 20110923 Conference
End: 20110927. Conference Publication: (var.pagings). 47 (pp
S263-S264), 2011. Date of Publication: September 2011.
Publisher
Elsevier Ltd
Abstract
Background: Whether improvement of quality and increased costeffectiveness
of surgical cancer care can be achieved by centralising care in
high-volume specialized centres is subject of an ongoing debate in many
countries.We have conducted a systematic review and the first metaanalysis
of the literature on the effect of procedural volume or surgeon specialty
on outcome of lung resections for cancer.Material and Methods: A
systematic search was done to identify articles investigating the effects
of surgeon specialty and hospital or surgeon volume of lung resections on
mortality and survival, published between January 1990 and December
2010.All articles were scrutinized on methodological quality.After strict
inclusion, meta-analysis assuming a random effects model was done to
estimate the effect of surgeon specialty and higher volume on patient
outcome.Meta-regression was used to identify volume cut-off
values.Heterogeneity in study results was evaluated with an
I<sup>2</sup>-test; the risk of publication bias with Egger's regression
intercept.Results: Nineteen studies investigating the relationship between
procedural volume or surgeon specialty and outcome of lung resections were
found.Studies were heterogeneous, especially in the definition of volume
categories.Ten studies met the inclusion criteria for meta-analysis on
hospital volume and postoperative mortality and 7 studies on hospital
volume and survival.The pooled estimated effect size was significant in
favour of high-volume providers in the analysis of postoperative mortality
(OR 0.71; CI 0.62-0.81) but not for the survival analysis (OR 0.93; CI
0.84-1.03).The meta-analysis on surgeon volume and outcome showed no
significant results.General surgeons had significantly higher mortality
rates than general thoracic (OR 0.78; 0.70-0.88) or cardio-thoracic
surgeons (OR 0.82; 0.69-0.96).A cut-off value for volume of resections for
lung cancer could not be identified.No publication bias was
detected.Conclusions: Hospital volume and surgeon specialty are important
determinants of outcome in lung cancer resections, but evidence-based
minimal volume standards are lacking.Using a minimal volume standard as a
tool, not a goal in itself, to enable more statistically accurate
evaluation of individual institutions in a national audit program can help
elucidate the influence of individual quality-of-care parameters,
including hospital volume, on outcome.

Saturday, October 8, 2011

EMBASE Cardiac Update AutoAlert: EPICORE Cardiac Surgery Blogger2

Total documents retrieved: 21

Results Generated From:
Embase <1980 to 2011 Week 40>
Embase (updates since 2011-09-29)


<1>
Accession Number
2011523112
Authors
Loomba R.S. Shah P.H. Chandrasekar S.
Institution
(Loomba) Department of Pediatrics, 9000 Wisconsin Avenue, Wauwatosa, WI
53226, United States
(Shah) Department of Medicine, 836 West Wellington Avenue, Chicago, IL,
United States
(Chandrasekar) Department of Pediatrics, 3333 N Green Bay Road, North
Chicago, IL, United States
Title
Short-term outcome comparison of Norwood procedures with right ventricle
to pulmonary artery conduit versus modified Blalock-Taussig shunt: A
meta-analysis.
Source
Annals of Pediatric Cardiology. 4 (2) (pp 145-149), 2011. Date of
Publication: 01 Jul 2011.
Publisher
Medknow Publications and Media Pvt. Ltd (B9, Kanara Business Centre, off
Link Road, Ghatkopar (E), Mumbai 400 075, India)
Abstract
A small number of nonrandomized and retrospective studies have compared
outcomes of classical Norwood procedures for hypoplasticleft-heart
syndrome and single ventricle lesions involving a Blalock-Taussig (BT)
shunt to the modified procedure using a right ventricle to pulmonary
artery conduit. Some of these studies reported data for the same outcomes
and a meta-analysis was done to analyze pooled outcomes comparing
in-hospital mortality, interstage mortality, cardiopulmonary bypass time,
systolic and diastolic blood pressures 24 h postoperatively, length of
intensive care and hospital stay, and need for postoperative
extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Right ventricle to pulmonary artery
conduit was associated with an insignificant reduction of in-hospital
mortality (odds ratio, 0.674, 95% confidence interval, 0.367 to 1.238),
and in the length of hospital stay. There were significant reductions in
cardiopulmonary bypass time, length of intensive care unit stay, and need
for postoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, postoperative
ventilation times, and interstage mortality (odds ratio, 0.191, confidence
interval, 0.0620 to 0.587). There was a significant increase in diastolic
blood pressure and an insignificant increase in systolic blood pressure 24
h postoperatively. This pooled analysis demonstrates potential advantages
associated with the right ventricle to pulmonary artery conduit when
compared to the modified BT shunt in palliation and demonstrates the need
for large randomized controlled trials that compare a number of outcomes
in both procedures.

<2>
Accession Number
2011521781
Authors
Masoumi G. Hidarpour E. Tabae A.S. Ziayeefard M. Azarasa A. Abneshahidi A.
Anbardan S.J. Kashefi P.
Institution
(Masoumi) Assistant Professor, Department of Cardiac Anesthesiology,
Shahid Rajaee Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Science, Isfahan,
Iran, Islamic Republic of
(Hidarpour) Professor, Department of Cardiac Anesthesiology, Tehran
University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran, Islamic Republic of
(Tabae) Assistant Professor, Department of Cardiac Surgery, Tehran
University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran, Islamic Republic of
(Ziayeefard) Assistant Professor, Department Of Anesthesiology, Tehran
University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran, Islamic Republic of
(Azarasa) Assistant Professor, Department of Cardiac Anesthesiology,
Ghazvin University of Medical Science, Ghazvin, Iran, Islamic Republic of
(Abneshahidi) Assistant Professor, Department of Anesthesiology, Isfahan
University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran, Islamic Republic of
(Anbardan) Medical Student, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran,
Iran, Islamic Republic of
(Kashefi) Asociated Professor, Department of anesthesiology, Isfahan
University of Medical Science, Isfahan, Iran, Islamic Republic of
Title
Evaluating hemodynamic outcomes of different dosages of intravenous
nitroglycerin after coronary artery bypass graft surgery.
Source
Journal of Research in Medical Sciences. 16 (7) (pp 910-915), 2011. Date
of Publication: July 2011.
Publisher
Isfahan University of Medical Sciences (Hezar Jerib Avenue, P.O. Box
81745-319, Isfahan, Iran, Islamic Republic of)
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Hemodynamic deterioration is a common postoperative problem.
Intravenous nitroglycerin (NTG) is used for prevention of this
complication. Nitroglycerin has different doses and is primarily a
vasodilator. Applying different doses of intravenous NTG can induce
different effects on post-operative cardiac instability, so we aimed to
investigate whether there was a difference need for administration of
inotrope drugs in patients undergoing CABG as indicators of cardiac
instability. METHODS: Sixty seven consecutive patients enrolled in this
double-blind clinical trial performed in Shahid Rajaee hospital, Shahid
Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran. RESULTS: The
decrease in blood pressure and the need for administration of epinephrine
was more prevalent in warming up period in all three groups. No need for
administration of epinephrine was detected before and during anesthesia in
groups receiving 100 and 150 mug/min intravenous nitroglycerin, but 6.6
percent (1 patient) of patients receiving 50 mug/min epinephrine,
demonstrated a decrease in blood pressure which necessitated the use of
epinephrine. CONCLUSIONS: It seemed that application of different doses of
intravenous nitroglycerin did not exert a significant influence on cardiac
instability and the need for use of inotrope drugs.

<3>
Accession Number
2011503533
Authors
Rossi M. Jayaram R. Sayeed R.
Institution
(Rossi, Sayeed) Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, John Radcliffe
Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
(Jayaram) Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford,
Oxford OX3 9DU, United Kingdom
Title
Do patients with haemophilia undergoing cardiac surgery have good surgical
outcomes?.
Source
Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery. 13 (3) (pp 320-331),
2011. Date of Publication: September 2011.
Publisher
European Association for Cardio-Thoracis Surgery (3 Park Street, Windsor,
Berkshire SL4 1LU, United Kingdom)
Abstract
A best evidence topic in cardiac surgery was written according to a
structured protocol. The question addressed was whether patients with
haemophilia undergoing cardiac surgery have good surgical outcomes.
Haemophilia A and haemophilia B are sex-linked recessive inherited
diseases affecting males only, with females acting as carriers. The
conditions result in various degrees of factor VIII or factor IX
deficiency, respectively. The life expectancy of haemophilia patients is
increasing and now approaches that of the general male population, and
they are confronted with age-related co-morbidity, including ischaemic
cardiovascular disease. Replacement of the deficient factor (VIII for
haemophilia A and IX for haemophilia B) is the cornerstone of treatment;
other therapeutic options include tranexamic acid, desmopressin and
aprotinin. Recently, the advent of recombinant factor VIII and IX has
eliminated the infective risk of using factor concentrates, such as
prothrombin complex concentrate or fresh frozen plasma. A total of 84
papers were found using the reported search criteria, and out of this 25
papers, selected with reference to a more modern date range, provided the
best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date
and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant
outcomes and results were tabulated. We conclude that there is lack of
good-quality evidence and that, in all probability, these papers are
subject to publication bias as poor outcomes are unlikely to have been
reported. However, all the reported series showed that good outcomes are
possible in this specific subgroup of patients given the correct approach.
The data accrued from these studies (a total of 30 adults and three
children) suggest that routine cardiac surgery can be performed safely in
patients with haemophilia, with minimal morbidity and mortality. We
identified the following key points to achieve this result: a team
approach, a factor replacement protocol and perioperative monitoring of
factor levels. Intraoperative plasma factor levels can be easily measured
before heparin and after protamine sulphate administration, whereas during
cardiopulmonary bypass this will require a chromogenic method. Exposure to
factor concentrates early in the life might predispose a patient with
severe haemophilia to the development of inhibitors. Moreover, the absence
of inhibitors should be confirmed before any surgical procedure. 2011 by
European Association for Cardio-thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

<4>
Accession Number
2011503532
Authors
Sadaba J.R. Urso S.
Institution
(Sadaba) Department of Cardiac Surgery, Hospital de Navarra, Irunlarrea 3,
31008 Pamplona, Spain
(Urso) Fundacion Jimenez Diaz, Madrid, Spain
Title
Does the introduction of duty-hour restriction in the United States
negatively affect the operative volume of surgical trainees?.
Source
Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery. 13 (3) (pp 316-319),
2011. Date of Publication: September 2011.
Publisher
European Association for Cardio-Thoracis Surgery (3 Park Street, Windsor,
Berkshire SL4 1LU, United Kingdom)
Abstract
Over the last few years, both sides of the North Atlantic have witnessed
compulsory duty-hour restrictions for doctors. It has been suggested that
the reduction in working hours for surgeons in training may have a
negative impact on their exposure to surgical procedures and therefore, on
the quality of training. A best evidence topic in cardiac surgery was
written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was:
among surgeons enrolled in a training program, does the introduction of
duty-hour restrictions have a negative impact on their exposure to
surgical procedures and therefore, on the quality of training? In total,
more than 74 papers were found using the reported search, of which 15
represented the best evidence to answer the question. All these
manuscripts came from the USA. The authors, journal, date and country of
publication, group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of
these papers are tabulated. Studies from different surgical disciplines,
such as general, orthopedic, pediatric, cardiothoracic and vascular
surgery were included. Among the studies analysed, eight revealed a
decrease, five showed no change, and two studies demonstrated an increase
in the operative experience of residents following the introduction of the
80-hour limit. The changes appear to have more negatively affected junior
residents in favor of more senior ones due to a shift in the surgical
workload to the latter. Interestingly, some studies demonstrated better
results in the in-training examinations (testing for clinical and basic
science knowledge) following the duty-hour restrictions. We conclude that
although most of the studies included in this review revealed that the
introduction of working-hour restrictions in the USA has produced a
decrease in number of cases performed by trainees, some have failed to do
so. Changes in the residents' working patterns, such as 'night float' and
'leave early' models, may be useful to preserve exposure to surgical
procedures. 2011 Published by European Association for Cardio-Thoracic
Surgery. All rights reserved.

<5>
Accession Number
2011503522
Authors
Brika A. Salema A.-M. Shoukryb A. Shoumanc W.
Institution
(Brika, Salema) Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Zagazig University
Hospital, 33 Port Said St, Belbies, Sharqia, Zagazig, Egypt
(Shoukryb) Department of Internal Medicine, Zagazig University Hospital,
Zagazig, Egypt
(Shoumanc) Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Zagazig University Hospital,
Zagazig, Egypt
Title
Surgery for hemoptysis in various pulmonary tuberculous lesions: A
prospective study.
Source
Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery. 13 (3) (pp 276-279),
2011. Date of Publication: September 2011.
Publisher
European Association for Cardio-Thoracis Surgery (3 Park Street, Windsor,
Berkshire SL4 1LU, United Kingdom)
Abstract
Hemoptysis due to pulmonary tuberculous lesions is a common cause of
morbidity, and occasionally mortality. The aim of this study is to
evaluate the surgical outcome of hemoptysis in patients with various
tuberculous pulmonary lesions. A total of 45 cases who underwent surgical
procedures for various pulmonary tuberculous lesions with hemoptysis were
included in this study. Sixteen patients underwent surgical management
within one week of the attack of hemoptysis (group A), the other 29
patients underwent surgery one week after the attack (group B). Hemoptysis
was classified into minor, major and massive hemoptysis. Major and massive
hemoptysis were the common presentation of group A and tuberculous
cavities were the most common lung lesions in both groups (37.7%).
Lobectomy was the main surgical procedure performed in both groups
(51.1%). Bronchopleural fistula occurred in one case in each group after
right pneumonectomy. There was one case (6.2%) of mortality in group A.
Tuberculous cavity is the common pulmonary lesion which can result in
major and massive hemoptysis, therefore, we recommend early surgical
resection of tuberculous cavities to avoid life-threatening hemoptysis.
Limited resection should be avoided to prevent recurrence. 2011 Published
by European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

<6>
Accession Number
2011526930
Authors
Turchetta A. Fintini D. Cafiero G. Calzolari A. Giordano U. Cutrera R.
Morini F. Braguglia A. Bagolan P.
Institution
(Turchetta, Fintini, Cafiero, Calzolari, Giordano) Cardiorespiratory and
Sport Medicine Unit, Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery Department, Bambino
Gesu Children's Hospital, Pzza S. Onofrio, 4, 00165 Rome, Italy
(Cutrera) Pneumology Unit, Pediatric Medicine Department, Bambino Gesu
Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
(Morini, Braguglia, Bagolan) Neonatal Intensive Care and Surgery Unit,
Neonatology Department, Bambino Gesu Children's Hospital, Rome, Italy
Title
Physical activity, fitness, and dyspnea perception in children with
congenital diaphragmatic hernia.
Source
Pediatric Pulmonology. 46 (10) (pp 1000-1006), 2011. Date of
Publication: October 2011.
Publisher
Wiley-Liss Inc. (111 River Street, Hoboken NJ 07030-5774, United States)
Abstract
We assessed whether physical activity could influence the performance and
perception of dyspnea in children who were operated on for high risk
congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). We hypothesized that CDH children
with normal activity would have better lung function and exercise
performance level when compared to sedentary CDH subjects. We studied 18
children (11 males and 7 females, mean age 6.6+/-2.6 years) who were
surgically corrected. All children underwent physical examination, ECG at
rest, and a maximal exercise stress test on a treadmill to measure the
duration of exercise, maximal heart rate and blood pressure, maximal
oxygen uptake (VO<sub>2</sub>max and VO <sub>2</sub>ml/kg/min). Lung
function testing to measure forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory
volume in 1sec (FEV<sub>1</sub>), and peak expiratory flow (PEF) was also
performed. Following the stress test, the Dalhousie dyspnea and effort
scale was shown to children as a pictorial panel with three groups of
increasing (from 1 to 7) levels of effort perception, throat discomfort,
and chest dyspnea. Children were divided into group A (sedentary) and
group B (regular physical participation). There was no difference in CDH
severity between the two groups. Group A had a statistically significant
lower duration of exercise (P<0.01), maximal oxygen consumption
(VO<sub>2</sub>max P<0.0001), VO<sub>2</sub>ml/kg/min (P<0.001), higher
throat closing feeling (P<0.004), chest dyspnea (P<0.001), and effort
perception (P<0.04) compared to group B. No differences were found in lung
function tests. In conclusion, our data may suggest that children with a
history of CDH who are active maintain a higher level of performance with
less perception of dyspnea and effort. Copyright 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

<7>
Accession Number
2011522954
Authors
Rideg O. Komcsi A. Magyarlaki T. Tkes-Fuzesi M. Miseta A. Kovcs G.L. Aradi
D.
Institution
(Rideg, Magyarlaki, Tkes-Fuzesi, Miseta, Kovcs) Institute of Laboratory
Medicine, University of Pecs, 13 Ifjsg Street, H-7624, Pecs, Hungary
(Komcsi, Aradi) Department of Interventional Cardiology, Heart Institute,
University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
Title
Impact of genetic variants on post-clopidogrel platelet reactivity in
patients after elective percutaneous coronary intervention.
Source
Pharmacogenomics. 12 (9) (pp 1269-1280), 2011. Date of Publication:
September 2011.
Publisher
Future Medicine Ltd. (2nd Albert Place, Finchley Central, London N3 1QB,
United Kingdom)
Abstract
Aim: To determine the effect of various SNPs on post-clopidogrel platelet
reactivity and clinical outcome. Materials & methods: Cytochrome 2C19
(CYP2C19) loss-of-function (LOF; *2, *3) and gain-of-function (GOF; *17)
allelic variants, together with ABCB1 (3435 C->T and 2677 G->T/A) and
paraoxonase-1 (PON-1; 192 Q->R) SNPs were analyzed in 189 patients after
elective stent implantation who participated in a randomized,
placebo-controlled trial (NCT00638326). Platelet reactivity was determined
with light transmission aggregometry and vasodilator stimulated
phosphoprotein phosphorylation (VASP-PRI) 12-24 h after 600 mg
clopidogrel. High on-treatment platelet reactivity (HTPR) was defined
according to the consensus definition (ADP 5 M >46%; VASP-PRI>50%).
Results: In the case of CYP2C19 genotypes, a gene-dose effect was observed
in ADP reactivity with the lowest values in GOF homozygotes and the
highest degree in patients carrying two LOF alleles. The odds for HTPR
also increased with the number of LOF alleles. There were no significant
differences in platelet reactivity according to PON-1 or ABCB1 genotypes.
In multivariate analysis, the presence of a CYP2C19 LOF allele turned out
to be the independent determinant of HTPR. Although the study was not
powered to clinical outcome (not LOF heterozygotes), only patients with
two LOF alleles had a significantly higher risk for cardiovascular death,
myocardial infarction or unplanned target vessel revascularization at 1
year compared with non-LOF carriers. Conclusion: Genetic variants in
CYP2C19 have a gene-dose effect on post-clopidogrel platelet reactivity,
with homozygote LOF carriers having the highest risk for HTPR and for
adverse ischemic events. Neither ABCB1 nor PON-1 genotypes significantly
influenced platelet reactivity or outcome. Original submitted 28 February
2011; Revision submitted 5 May 201. 2011 Future Medicine Ltd.

<8>
Accession Number
2011532024
Authors
Baradari A.G. Habibi M.R. Khezri H.D. Aarabi M. Khademloo M. Jalali Z.
Ghafari R.
Institution
(Baradari, Habibi) Department of CardicAnestesia, Mazandaran University of
Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran, Islamic Republic of
(Khezri) Faculty of Nursing and Midwif y, Mazandaran University of Medical
Sciences, Sari, Iran, Islamic Republic of
(Aarabi) Cardiovascular Research Center, Golestan University of Medical
Sciences, Gorgan, Iran, Islamic Republic of
(Khademloo, Jalali) Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical
Sciences, Sari, Iran, Islamic Republic of
(Ghafari) Department of Cardiac Surgery, Mazandaran University of Medical
Sciences, Sari, Iran, Islamic Republic of
Title
Does high-dose metformin cause lactic acidosis in type 2 diabetic patients
after CABG surgery? A double blind randomized clinical trial.
Source
Heart International. 6 (1) (pp 26-30), 2011. Date of Publication: 2011.
Publisher
PAGEPress (4,Giuseppe Belli, Pavia 27100, Italy)
Abstract
Metformin is a dimethyl biguanide oral anti-hyperglycemic agent. Lactic
acidosis due to metformin is a fatal metabolic condition that limits its
use in patients in poor clinical condition, consequently reducing the
number of patients who benefit from this medication. In a double blind
randomized clinical trial, we investigated 200 type 2 diabetic patients
after coronary artery bypass surgery in the open heart ICU of the
Mazandaran Heart Center, and randomly assigned them to equal intervention
and control groups. The intervention group received regular insulin
infusion along with 2 metformin 500 mg tablets every twelve hours, while
the control group received only intravenous insulin with 2 placebo tablets
every twelve hours. Lactate level, pH, base excess, blood glucose and
serum creatinine were measured over five 12 h periods, with data averaged
for each period. The primary outcome in this study was high lactate
levels. Comparison between the 2 groups was made by independent Student's
t-test. To compare changes in multiple measures in each group and analysis
of group interaction, a repeated measurement ANOVA test was used. There
was no significant difference between the 2 groups regarding pH, base
excess, or bicarbonate intake (P>0.05). No patient showed lactic acidosis
in either group. Lactate levels were 23.0 vs 23.4 in the insulin-metformin
and insulin only groups when the study was started, respectively. At the
end of the study, those levels were 18.7 vs 18.9, respectively. In
addition, the ANOVA repeated measurement test did not show a significant
difference in terms of changes in the amount of lactate level between the
2 groups during the five measurement tests of the study period (P>0.05).
High-dose metformin (1,000 mg twice daily with insulin) does not cause
lactic acidosis in type 2 diabetic patients after coronary artery bypass
surgery. A.G. Baradari et al., 2011.

<9>
Accession Number
2011529072
Authors
Garcia Franco C.E. Perez-Cajaraville J. Guillen-Grima F. Espana A.
Institution
(Garcia Franco) General Thoracic Surgery Department, Hospital
Universitario Nuestra Senora de Candelaria, Tenerife, Spain
(Perez-Cajaraville, Espana) Hyperhidrosis and Facial Blushing Unit,
Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Navarra, Spain
(Guillen-Grima) Department of Preventive Medicine, Clinica Universidad de
Navarra, Navarra, Spain
Title
Prospective study of percutaneous radiofrequency sympathicolysis in severe
hyperhidrosis and facial blushing: Efficacy and safety findings.
Source
European Journal of Cardio-thoracic Surgery. 40 (4) (pp e146-e151), 2011.
Date of Publication: October 2011.
Publisher
Elsevier (P.O. Box 211, Amsterdam 1000 AE, Netherlands)
Abstract
Objective: Hyperhidrosis (Hh) and facial blushing (Fb) are conditions
caused by hyperactivity of the sympathetic system; they affect around 2%
of the population. Severe cases have been typically treated with thoracic
sympathectomy through a minimally invasive approach. We sought to
determine if severe Hh and/or Fb patients, who are reluctant to go through
an operation with general anaesthesia, could benefit from receiving
percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of the sympathetic chain. Methods:
Prospectively collected data obtained from May 2007 to May 2010 were
analysed to compare the treatment efficacy and effects on quality of life
of the two procedures. Results: From a total of 58 patients enrolled in
the study, 31 were treated with radiofrequency procedures, whereas 27
received surgical sympathectomy. Patients with Hh had better results with
surgery than with radiofrequency sympathicolysis in terms of efficacy
(p=0.0001) and quality of life (p=0.0002). However, there was still a
significant improvement in quality of life in the group of patients
treated with radiofrequency sympathicolysis (p=0.004). Patients with Fb
had good results with surgical procedures and poor outcomes with
radiofrequency ablation, resulting in significant differences in treatment
efficacy (p=0.005) and in quality of life (p=0.003). Fb patients treated
with radiofrequency procedures had no improvement in quality of life after
the intervention (p=0.28). Conclusion: Our results support the view of
surgical sympathectomy as the gold-standard treatment in severe cases of
Hh and Fb. Radiofrequency sympathicolysis is useful as a second-treatment
choice for Hh patients. Fb patients do not benefit from radiofrequency
sympathicolysis. 2011 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery.

<10>
Accession Number
2011524800
Authors
Byrne R.A. Kastrati A. Massberg S. Wieczorek A. Laugwitz K.-L. Hadamitzky
M. Schulz S. Pache J. Fusaro M. Hausleiter J. Schomig A. Mehilli J.
Institution
(Byrne, Kastrati, Massberg, Wieczorek, Hadamitzky, Schulz, Pache, Fusaro,
Hausleiter, Schomig, Mehilli) ISARESEARCH Centre, Deutsches Herzzentrum,
Technische Universitat, Lazarettstrasse 36, 80636 Munich, Germany
(Laugwitz, Schomig) Medizinische Klinik, Klinikum Rechts der Isar,
Technische Universitat, Munich, Germany
Title
Biodegradable polymer versus permanent polymer drug-eluting stents and
everolimus- versus sirolimus-eluting stents in patients with coronary
artery disease: 3-year outcomes from a randomized clinical trial.
Source
Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 58 (13) (pp 1325-1331),
2011. Date of Publication: 20 Sep 2011.
Publisher
Elsevier USA (6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando FL 32862 8239, United States)
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the 3-year efficacy and
safety of biodegradable polymer with permanent polymer stents and of
everolimus-eluting stents (EES) with sirolimus-eluting stents (SES).
Background: Biodegradable polymer drug-eluting stents (DES) offer
potential for enhanced late outcomes in comparison with permanent polymer
stents. In addition, there is increasing interest in the comparison of EES
(Xience, Abbott Vascular, Abbott Park, Illinois) versus SES (Cypher,
Cordis Corporation, Miami Lakes, Florida). Methods: The ISAR-TEST 4
(Intracoronary Stenting and Angiographic Results: Test Efficacy of 3
Limus-Eluting Stents-4) was a randomized clinical trial with broad
inclusion criteria, enrolling 2,603 patients at 2 clinics in Munich,
Germany. Patients were randomized to either biodegradable polymer (n =
1,299) or permanent polymer stents (n = 1,304); patients treated with
permanent polymer stents were randomly allocated to EES (n = 652) or SES
(n = 652). The primary endpoint was the composite of cardiac death, target
vessel-related myocardial infarction, or target lesion revascularization.
Results: Clinical events continued to accrue at a low rate out to 3 years
in all groups. Overall, there was no significant difference between
biodegradable polymer and permanent polymer DES with regard to the primary
endpoint (20.1% vs. 20.9%, hazard ratio [HR]: 0.95, 95% confidence
interval [CI]: 0.80 to 1.13; p = 0.59). Rates of definite/probable stent
thrombosis were also similar in both groups (1.2% vs. 1.7%, respectively;
HR: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.37 to 1.39; p = 0.32). In patients treated with
permanent polymer stents, EES were comparable to SES with regard to the
primary endpoint (19.6% vs. 22.2%, respectively; HR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.68 to
1.11; p = 0.26) as well as definite/probable stent thrombosis (1.4% vs.
1.9%, HR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.32 to 1.78; p = 0.51). Conclusions:
Biodegradable polymer and permanent polymer DES are associated with
similar clinical outcomes at 3 years. In addition, EES are comparable to
SES in terms of overall clinical efficacy and safety. (Intracoronary
Stenting and Angiographic Results: Test Efficacy of 3 Limus-Eluting STents
[ISAR-TEST 4]: Prospective, Randomized Trial of 3-limus Agent-eluting
Stents With Different Polymer Coatings; NCT00598676) 2011 American
College of Cardiology Foundation.

<11>
Accession Number
2011526140
Authors
Mehilli J. Pache J. Abdel-Wahab M. Schulz S. Byrne R.A. Tiroch K.
Hausleiter J. Seyfarth M. Ott I. Ibrahim T. Fusaro M. Laugwitz K.-L.
Massberg S. Neumann F.-J. Richardt G. Schomig A. Kastrati A.
Institution
(Mehilli, Pache, Schulz, Byrne, Hausleiter, Ott, Fusaro, Massberg,
Schomig, Kastrati) Deutsches Herzzentrum, Technische Universitat, 80636
Munich, Germany
(Ibrahim, Laugwitz, Schomig) 1 Medizinische Klinik, Klinikum Rechts der
Isar, Technische Universitat, Munich, Germany
(Tiroch, Seyfarth) Medizinische Klinik 3, Helios Kliniken Wuppertal,
Wuppertal, Germany
(Abdel-Wahab, Richardt) Herzzentrum der Segeberger Kliniken, Bad Segeberg,
Germany
(Neumann) Herz-Zentrum, Bad Krozingen, Germany
Title
Drug-eluting versus bare-metal stents in saphenous vein graft lesions
(ISAR-CABG): A randomised controlled superiority trial.
Source
The Lancet. 378 (9796) (pp 1071-1078), 2011. Date of Publication: 17 Sep
2011.
Publisher
Elsevier Limited (32 Jamestown Road, London NW1 7BY, United Kingdom)
Abstract
Background Comparative assessment of clinical outcomes after use of
drug-eluting stents versus bare-metal stents for treatment of
aortocoronary saphenous vein graft lesions has not been undertaken in
large randomised trials. We aimed to undertake a comparison in a
randomised trial powered for clinical endpoints. Methods In this
randomised superiority trial, patients with de-novo saphenous vein graft
lesions were assigned by computer-generated sequence (1:1:1:3) to receive
either drug-eluting stents (one of three types: permanent-polymer
paclitaxel-eluting stents, permanent-polymer sirolimus-eluting stents, or
biodegradable-polymer sirolimus-eluting stents) or bare-metal stents.
Randomisation took place immediately after crossing of the lesion with a
guidewire, and was stratifi ed for each participating centre.
Investigators assessing data were masked to treatment allocation; patients
were not masked to allocation. The primary endpoint was the combined
incidence of death, myocardial infarction, and target lesion
revascularisation at 1 year. Analysis was by intention to treat. This
trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00611910. Findings
610 patients were allocated to treatment groups (303 drug-eluting stent,
307 bare-metal stent). Drug-eluting stents reduced the incidence of the
primary endpoint compared with bare-metal stents (44 [15%] vs 66 [22%]
patients; hazard ratio [HR] 0*64, 95% CI 0*44-0*94; p=0*02). Target lesion
revascularisation rate was reduced by drug-eluting stents (19 [7%] vs 37
[13%] patients; HR 0*49, 95% CI 0*28-0*86; p=0*01). No signifi cant diff
erences were seen between drug-eluting stents and bare-metal stents
regarding all-cause mortality (15 [5%] vs 14 [5%] patients; HR 1*08, 95%
CI 0*52-2*24; p=0*83), myocardial infarction (12 [4%] vs 18 [6%]; HR 0*66,
95% CI 0*32-1*37; p=0*27), or defi nite or probable stent thrombosis (2
[1%] in both groups; HR 1*00, 95% CI 0*14-7*10; p=0*99). Interpretation In
patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention for de-novo
saphenous vein graft lesions, drug-eluting stents are the preferred
treatment option because they reduce the risk of adverse events compared
with bare-metal stents. Funding Deutsches Herzzentrum. 2011 Elsevier Ltd.

<12>
[Use Link to view the full text]
Accession Number
2011527534
Authors
Lahtinen P. Pitkanen O. Polonen P. Turpeinen A. Kiviniemi V. Uusaro A.
Institution
(Lahtinen, Pitkanen, Polonen, Uusaro) Departments of Anesthesiology and
Intensive Care, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
(Kiviniemi) Departments of Internal Medicine, Kuopio University Hospital,
Kuopio, Finland
(Turpeinen) IT-Centre, University of Kuopio, Kuopio, Finland
Title
Levosimendan reduces heart failure after cardiac surgery: A prospective,
randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
Source
Critical Care Medicine. 39 (10) (pp 2263-2270), 2011. Date of
Publication: October 2011.
Publisher
Lippincott Williams and Wilkins (351 West Camden Street, Baltimore MD
21201-2436, United States)
Abstract
Objective: To investigate whether levosimendan diminishes the incidence of
heart failure after cardiac surgery. Design: Prospective, randomized,
placebo-controlled clinical study. Setting: Cardiac surgery operating room
and postanesthesia care unit in a university hospital. Patients: Two
hundred patients assigned to undergo heart valve or combined heart valve
and coronary artery bypass grafting surgery. Interventions: Patients were
randomized to receive a 24-hr infusion of placebo or levosimendan
administered as a 24 mug/kg bolus over 30-mins and thereafter at a dose of
0.2 mug/kg/min. Measurements and Main Results: Heart failure was defined
as cardiac index <2.0 L/min/m or failure to wean from cardiopulmonary
bypass necessitating inotrope administration for at least 2 hrs
postoperatively. Heart failure was less frequent in the levosimendan
compared to the placebo group: 15 patients (15%) in the levosimendan and
59 patients (58%) in the placebo group experienced heart failure
postoperatively (risk ratio 0.26; 95% confidence interval 0.16-0.43; p <
.001). Accordingly, a rescue inotrope (adrenaline) was needed less
frequently in the levosimendan compared to the placebo group (risk ratio
0.11; 95% confidence interval 0.01-0.89), p = .005. Intra-aortic balloon
pump was utilized in one patient (1%) in the levosimendan and in nine
patients (9%) in the placebo group (risk ratio 0.11; 95% confidence
interval 0.01-0.87), p = .018. The hospital and the 6-month mortality were
comparable between groups. There were no significant differences in major
organ failures postoperatively. Eighty-three patients were hypotensive and
needed noradrenaline in the levosimendan compared to 52 patients in the
placebo group, p < .001. The cardiac enzymes (creatine kinase MB isoenzyme
mass) indicating myocardial damage were lower in the levosimendan group on
the first postoperative day, p = .011. Conclusions: In the present study,
levosimendan infusion reduced the incidence of heart failure in cardiac
surgery patients but was associated with arterial hypotension and
increased requirement of vasopressor agents postoperatively. Improved
mortality or morbidity was not demonstrated. 2011 by the Society of
Critical Care Medicine and Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

<13>
Accession Number
2011529036
Authors
Helms O. Mariano J. Hentz J.-G. Santelmo N. Falcoz P.-E. Massard G. Steib
A.
Institution
(Helms, Mariano, Hentz, Steib) Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive
Care Medicine, Strasbourg University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
(Santelmo, Falcoz, Massard) Department of Thoracic Surgery, Strasbourg
University Hospital, Strasbourg, France
Title
Intra-operative paravertebral block for postoperative analgesia in
thoracotomy patients: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled
study.
Source
European Journal of Cardio-thoracic Surgery. 40 (4) (pp 902-906), 2011.
Date of Publication: October 2011.
Publisher
Elsevier (P.O. Box 211, Amsterdam 1000 AE, Netherlands)
Abstract
Objective: Epidural analgesia is the gold standard for post-thoracotomy
pain relief but is contraindicated in certain patients. An alternative is
paravertebral block. We investigated whether ropivacaine, administered
through a paravertebral catheter placed by the surgeon, reduced
postoperative pain. Methods: In a randomized double-blind study, adult
patients with a paravertebral catheter placed by the thoracic surgeon
after thoracotomy were randomly assigned to receive through this catheter,
either a 0.1mlkg<sup>-1</sup> bolus of 0.5% ropivacaine, followed by a
continuous infusion of 0.1mlkg<sup>-1</sup>h<sup>-1</sup> for 48h, or
saline at the same scheme of administration. Patients also benefited from
patient-controlled analgesia with intravenous morphine (bolus 1mg, lockout
time 7min), paracetamol, and nefopam. The primary endpoint was pain
intensity on a visual analog scale at rest and on coughing. Secondary
endpoints were total morphine consumption and side effects during the
first 48 postoperative hours. Surgeons, anesthesiologists, and all the
nurses and caring staff involved in this study were blinded. Solutions of
saline and ropivacaine were prepared identically by the central pharmacy,
without any possible identification of the product. Results: Forty-seven
patients with contraindications to epidural anesthesia were included.
There were no significant differences between the groups receiving
ropivacaine and saline in terms of pain severity at rest and on coughing,
mean postoperative morphine consumption (45.7mg for ropivacaine, 43.2mg in
controls), and incidence of morphine-related side effects (nausea and
vomiting, urinary retention, pruritus, respiratory rate, and sedation).
Conclusions: Paravertebral block using a catheter placed by the thoracic
surgeon was ineffective on postoperative pain after thoracotomy and did
not confirm the analgesic effect that has been observed after percutaneous
catheter placement. A direct comparison of these two placement methods is
required. 2011 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery.

<14>
Accession Number
2011529037
Authors
Fibla J.J. Molins L. Mier J.M. Sierra A. Carranza D. Vidal G.
Institution
(Fibla, Molins, Mier, Carranza, Vidal) Department of Thoracic Surgery,
Hospital Universitari Sagrat Cor, C/Viladomat 288, 08029 Barcelona, Spain
(Sierra) Department of Anaesthesia, Hospital Universitari Sagrat Cor,
C/Viladomat 288, 08029 Barcelona, Spain
Title
The efficacy of paravertebral block using a catheter technique for
postoperative analgesia in thoracoscopic surgery: A randomized trial.
Source
European Journal of Cardio-thoracic Surgery. 40 (4) (pp 907-911), 2011.
Date of Publication: October 2011.
Publisher
Elsevier (P.O. Box 211, Amsterdam 1000 AE, Netherlands)
Abstract
Objective: The analgesic scheme combining paravertebral block (PVB) and
intravenous non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) has proven to be
effective for postoperative pain control after thoracotomy. The hypothesis
tested in this study was that this policy was also suitable to improve
pain control after video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). Methods: This
was a prospective randomized study on 40 patients submitted to
three-ports' VATS for pneumothorax or solitary pulmonary nodule. The
sample size was calculated to detect one point of minimum pain score
difference with 80% statistical power. Patients were randomly assigned to
two groups: (1) paravertebral block group (PVB) (n=20) - At the end of
surgery, a catheter was placed in patients in the thoracic paravertebral
space under camera control; they received a bolus of 15. ml of local
anesthetic (ropivacaine 0.2%) every 6. h, combined with endovenous
metamizol (1. g); and (2) alternate NSAIDs group (AN) (n=20) - They were
treated with paracetamol (1. g) combined with metamizol (1. g) every 6. h.
Subcutaneous meperidine (synthetic opioid) was employed as rescue drug.
Both groups were comparable in terms of age, sex, pathology, and
co-morbidity. Pain level was measured with the visual analog scale (VAS)
at 1, 6, 24, and 48. h. Results: No side effects related to any of the two
analgesic techniques were noted. Two patients needed rescue meperidine in
the AN group, and none in the PVB group. VAS scores were the following:
PVB group, VAS 1. h: 1.4 +/- 0.8, VAS 6. h: 3.4 +/- 1.2, VAS 24. h: 2.6
+/- 1.0, VAS 48. h: 2.2 +/- 0.9, and mean VAS: 2.4 +/- 1.3; AN group, VAS
1. h: 2.8 +/- 1.0, VAS 6. h: 4.9 +/- 1.3, VAS 24. h: 3.9 +/- 1.4, VAS 48.
h: 3.3 +/- 1.0, and mean VAS: 3.8 +/- 1.4. VAS scores were significantly
lower at any time in the PVB patients (p<0.01). Conclusions: The analgesic
regimen combining PVB and NSAID provided an excellent level of pain
control. Thoracoscopy assisted positioning of the paravertebral catheter
is simple and effective, and allows direct visualization of correct
delivery of local anesthetic. It represents a valuable addition to any
VATS procedure. 2011 European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery.

<15>
Accession Number
2011511974
Authors
Lam O.L.T. Zhang W. Samaranayake L.P. Li L.S.W. McGrath C.
Institution
(Lam) Oral Rehabilitation 4/F, Prince Philip Dental Hospital, 34 Hospital
Road, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong
(Zhang, McGrath) Periodontology and Public Health 3/F, Prince Philip
Dental Hospital, 34 Hospital Road, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong
(Samaranayake) Faculty Office 6/F, Prince Philip Dental Hospital, 34
Hospital Road, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong
(Li) Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Tung Wah Hospital, 12 Po Yan
Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
Title
A systematic review of the effectiveness of oral health promotion
activities among patients with cardiovascular disease.
Source
International Journal of Cardiology. 151 (3) (pp 261-267), 2011. Date of
Publication: 15 Sep 2011.
Publisher
Elsevier Ireland Ltd (P.O. Box 85, Limerick, Ireland)
Abstract
Aims: This study aimed to review the effectiveness of oral health
promotion activities conducted among patients with cardiovascular disease.
Methods and results: Three electronic databases were searched for
effective papers using standardized search methods, and key findings of
effective studies were summarized. The initial search yielded 3101 papers
but only 8 studies met the criteria for this review: 3 were randomized
controlled studies, 3 were pre-/post group interventions, 1 was a
randomized split-mouth study, and 1 was a quasi-experimental study.
Studies retrieved concerned oral health promotion activities in patients
with coronary heart disease, hypertension, heart transplantation, and
stroke. Interventions comprised periodontal treatment performed by dental
personnel, and oral hygiene interventions provided by nursing home care
assistants. Outcomes included improvements in periodontal health, and
modifications of systemic inflammatory markers. No studies, however,
evaluated the effects of oral health promotion interventions on oral
microflora. Conclusion: There are limited studies on the efficacy of oral
health promotion activities in patients with cardiovascular disease,
particularly stroke patients. Oral health promotion activities appear to
produce improvements in periodontal health, and also result in changes to
systemic markers of inflammation and endothelial function (at least) in
the short term. Whether these effects can ultimately lower the risk of
secondary cardiovascular events has not yet been determined. 2010
Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

<16>
Accession Number
2011528610
Authors
Camm C.F. Nagendran M. Xiu P.Y. Maruthappu M.
Institution
(Camm) New College, University of Oxford, Holywell Street, Oxford OX1 3BN,
United Kingdom
(Nagendran, Maruthappu) Green Templeton College, University of Oxford,
Woodstock Road, Oxford OX2 6HG, United Kingdom
(Xiu) School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge University, Addenbrookes
Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom
Title
How effective is cryoablation for atrial fibrillation during concomitant
cardiac surgery?.
Source
Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery. 13 (4) (pp 410-414),
2011. Date of Publication: September 2011.
Publisher
European Association for Cardio-Thoracis Surgery (3 Park Street, Windsor,
Berkshire SL4 1LU, United Kingdom)
Abstract
A best evidence topic in cardiothoracic surgery was written according to a
structured protocol. The question addressed was whether performing
cryoablative procedures during concomitant cardiac surgical procedures is
effective for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). Altogether 291
papers were found using the reported search, of which nine represented the
best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date
and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant
outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. All studies showed
that cryoablation during concomitant surgery had a significant effect on
return to sinus rhythm (SR) conversion rate. One study showed that
cryoablation was significantly more effective than mitral valve surgery
alone at a 12-month follow-up (73.3% vs. 42.9%, respectively, P=0.013).
The use of a concomitant cryoablative procedure has also been shown to be
far superior to subsequent catheter based cryoablation in returning
patients to SR at a 12-month follow-up (82% and 55.2%, respectively,
P<0.001). Another study showed a significant return to AF over a
three-year period (91.8% and 84.1% at discharge and three years,
respectively). Return to SR was significantly decreased in those patients
suffering from permanent rather than paroxysmal AF (47% vs. 85%, P<0.001).
Paucity of level 1 evidence was a major limitation to this analysis. All
nine papers were either small randomised controlled trials or
retrospective studies with small sample sizes (57-521) and varied
follow-up regimens. Six of nine studies suggested that cryoablation is
most successful in patients suffering from paroxysmal rather than
permanent AF. A lack of 24-h monitoring in seven of nine studies prevented
effective elucidation of the rate of paroxysmal AF following cryoablation.
Only one study suggested an increased complication rate from cryoablation,
however, none suggested any negative impact on mortality or morbidity. We
conclude that cryoablation during concomitant surgery is a safe and
acceptable intervention for the treatment of AF with an SR conversion rate
of between 60% and 82% at 12-months postsurgery. 2011 Published by
European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

<17>
Accession Number
2011528609
Authors
Urban M. Pirk J. Dorazilova Z. Netuka I.
Institution
(Urban, Pirk, Netuka) Department of Cardiac Surgery, Institute for
Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Videnska 1958/9, 14021 Prague, Czech
Republic
(Dorazilova) Department of Cardiology, Institute for Clinical and
Experimental Medicine, Videnska 1958/9, 14021 Prague, Czech Republic
Title
How does successful bridging with ventricular assist device affect cardiac
transplantation outcome?.
Source
Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery. 13 (4) (pp 405-409),
2011. Date of Publication: September 2011.
Publisher
European Association for Cardio-Thoracis Surgery (3 Park Street, Windsor,
Berkshire SL4 1LU, United Kingdom)
Abstract
A best evidence topic in cardiac surgery was written according to a
structured protocol. The issue was to determine the impact of
bridge-to-transplant ventricular assist device support on survival after
cardiac transplantation. Altogether 428 papers were found using the
reported search, of which 12 represented the best evidence to answer the
clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication,
patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these
papers are tabulated. The treatment options for patients with advanced
heart failure or those with deteriorating end-organ function on maximal
medical therapy are limited to intravenous inotropes and mechanical
assistance with intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) or ventricular assist
device (VAD). Studies exploring the effect of VADs on post-transplant
mortality have yielded conflicting results. The Registry of the
International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation continues to
identify mechanical support as a risk factor for decreased survival after
transplantation. A limitation of this report is that the multivariable
adjustment uses variables recorded not at the time of device implant but
at the time of transplant. Some of the recipient characteristics thus may
be altered by the device implant. Compared with the previous reports the
latest data show improvement in post-transplant survival in the recent
era. In addition, the excess risk appears to be limited to the early
post-transplant period. Experienced centers consistently report
outstanding post-transplant results with left ventricular assist device
(LVAD) bridging. Of the 12 papers seven showed no difference in survival,
and five showed a reduced survival. In the papers showing no difference,
one year survival averaged from 85% in supported patients to 87% in
non-supported patients. In papers reporting a difference in outcome, one
year averaged survival was 74% in LVAD recipients compared to 90% in
non-bridged patients. Decreased survival is associated with patients
suffering from dilated cardiomyopathy, transplanted within two weeks of
LVAD implantation and bridged to transplantation before 2003 as opposed to
patients transplanted more recently. Based on the available evidence we
conclude that in selected patients survival after heart transplantation in
patients bridged with VAD is comparable to those who did not receive the
device. 2011 Published by European Association for Cardio-Thoracic
Surgery. All rights reserved.

<18>
Accession Number
2011533519
Authors
Aune E. Roislien J. Mathisen M. Thelle D.S. Otterstad J.E.
Institution
(Aune, Otterstad) Department of Cardiology, Vestfold Hospital Trust,
Tonsberg, Norway
(Roislien, Thelle) Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical
Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
(Roislien) Morbid Obesity Centre, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tonsberg,
Norway
(Mathisen) Medical Library, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tonsberg, Norway
Title
The "smoker's paradox" in patients with acute coronary syndrome: A
systematic review.
Source
BMC Medicine. 9 , 2011. Article Number: 97. Date of Publication: 23
Aug 2011.
Publisher
BioMed Central Ltd. (Floor 6, 236 Gray's Inn Road, London WC1X 8HB, United
Kingdom)
Abstract
Background: Smokers have been shown to have lower mortality after acute
coronary syndrome than non-smokers. This has been attributed to the
younger age, lower co-morbidity, more aggressive treatment and lower risk
profile of the smoker. Some studies, however, have used multivariate
analyses to show a residual survival benefit for smokers; that is, the
"smoker's paradox". The aim of this study was, therefore, to perform a
systematic review of the literature and evidence surrounding the existence
of the "smoker's paradox".Methods: Relevant studies published by September
2010 were identified through literature searches using EMBASE (from 1980),
MEDLINE (from 1963) and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled
Trials, with a combination of text words and subject headings used.
English-language original articles were included if they presented data on
hospitalised patients with defined acute coronary syndrome, reported at
least in-hospital mortality, had a clear definition of smoking status
(including ex-smokers), presented crude and adjusted mortality data with
effect estimates, and had a study sample of > 100 smokers and > 100
non-smokers. Two investigators independently reviewed all titles and
abstracts in order to identify potentially relevant articles, with any
discrepancies resolved by repeated review and discussion.Results: A total
of 978 citations were identified, with 18 citations from 17 studies
included thereafter. Six studies (one observational study, three
registries and two randomised controlled trials on thrombolytic treatment)
observed a "smoker's paradox". Between the 1980s and 1990s these studies
enrolled patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) according to
criteria similar to the World Health Organisation criteria from 1979.
Among the remaining 11 studies not supporting the existence of the
paradox, five studies represented patients undergoing contemporary
management.Conclusion: The "smoker's paradox" was observed in some studies
of AMI patients in the pre-thrombolytic and thrombolytic era, whereas no
studies of a contemporary population with acute coronary syndrome have
found evidence for such a paradox. 2011 Aune et al; licensee BioMed
Central Ltd.

<19>
Accession Number
2011537667
Authors
Guasti L. Dentali F. Castiglioni L. Maroni L. Marino F. Squizzato A. Ageno
W. Gianni M. Gaudio G. Grandi A.M. Cosentino M. Venco A.
Institution
(Guasti, Dentali, Castiglioni, Maroni, Marino, Squizzato, Ageno, Gianni,
Gaudio, Grandi, Cosentino, Venco) Department of Clinical Medicine,
University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
Title
Neutrophils and clinical outcomes in patients with acute coronary
syndromes and/or cardiac revascularization: A systematic review on more
than 34,000 subjects.
Source
Thrombosis and Haemostasis. 106 (4) (pp 591-599), 2011. Date of
Publication: Oct 2011.
Publisher
Schattauer GmbH (Hoelderlinstr 3 Stuttgart D-70174, Germany)
Abstract
Some studies have suggested that high levels of total white blood cell
(WBC) count and C-reactive protein (CRP) may be considered as independent
prognostic factors in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and/or
after cardiac revascularisation by percutaneous coronary intervention or
coronary artery bypass grafting surgery. Evidence on the role of
neutrophils in cardiovascular disease is less compelling. Therefore, we
conducted a systematic review of the literature with the aim of
identifying all the available evidence to clarify the role of neutrophils
(absolute or relative count, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio) as a prognostic
risk factor in patients with ACS and/or cardiac revascularisation. All
published studies evaluating the role of neutrophils as a risk factor for
clinical outcomes were assessed using the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases.
Study selection, data extraction and validity assessment was performed
independently by two reviewers. Twenty-one studies (17 of which had
positive results) for a total of more than 34,000 patients were included.
Ten of 13 studies in ACS patients found that neutrophils measured
on-admission are related to mortality rate and/or to major adverse
clinical events. A predictive value of neutrophils after cardiac
revascularisation procedures was reported in seven out of eight studies.
Most of the studies showed that neutrophils were independent predictors of
cardiovascular outcomes when analysed concomitantly with other markers of
inflammation (WBC, CRP). The findings of our systematic review highlight
the potential application of this inexpensive and readily available
inflammatory marker for risk stratification in patients with ACS and/or
cardiac revascularisation. Schattauer 2011.

<20>
Accession Number
2011538524
Authors
Kirov M.Y. Eremeev A.V. Smetkin A.A. Bjertnaes L.J.
Institution
(Kirov, Smetkin) Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine,
Northern State Medical University, Troitsky avenue 51, Arkhangelsk,
163000, Russian Federation
(Kirov, Eremeev, Smetkin) Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care
Medicine, City Hospital #1, Suvorov Street 1, Arkhangelsk, 163001, Russian
Federation
(Kirov, Bjertnaes) Department of Clinical Medicine (Anesthesiology),
Faculty of Medicine, University of Tromso, MH-Breivika, Tromso, 9038,
Norway
(Kirov, Bjertnaes) Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital of
North Norway, Sykehusveien 38, Tromso, 9038, Norway
Title
Epidural anesthesia and postoperative analgesia with ropivacaine and
fentanyl in off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting: A randomized,
controlled study.
Source
BMC Anesthesiology. 11 , 2011. Article Number: 17. Date of
Publication: 18 Sep 2011.
Publisher
BioMed Central Ltd. (Floor 6, 236 Gray's Inn Road, London WC1X 8HB, United
Kingdom)
Abstract
Background: Our aim was to assess the efficacy of thoracic epidural
anesthesia (EA) followed by postoperative epidural infusion (EI) and
patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) with ropivacaine/fentanyl in
off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB).Methods: In a prospective
study, 93 patients were scheduled for OPCAB under propofol/fentanyl
anesthesia and randomized to three postoperative analgesia regimens aiming
at a visual analog scale (VAS) score < 30 mm at rest. The control group (n
= 31) received intravenous fentanyl 10 mug/ml postoperatively 3-8 mL/h.
After placement of an epidural catheter at the level of
Th<sub>2</sub>-Th<sub>4 </sub>before OPCAB, a thoracic EI group (n = 31)
received EA intraoperatively with ropivacaine 0.75% 1 mg/kg and fentanyl 1
mug/kg followed by continuous EI of ropivacaine 0.2% 3-8 mL/h and fentanyl
2 mug/mL postoperatively. The PCEA group (n = 31), in addition to EA and
EI, received PCEA (ropivacaine/fentanyl bolus 1 mL, lock-out interval 12
min) postoperatively. Hemodynamics and blood gases were measured
throughout 24 h after OPCAB.Results: During OPCAB, EA decreased arterial
pressure transiently, counteracted changes in global ejection fraction and
accumulation of extravascular lung water, and reduced the consumption of
propofol by 15%, fentanyl by 50% and nitroglycerin by a 7-fold, but
increased the requirements in colloids and vasopressors by 2- and 3-fold,
respectively (P < 0.05). After OPCAB, PCEA increased
PaO<sub>2</sub>/FiO<sub>2 </sub>at 18 h and decreased the duration of
mechanical ventilation by 32% compared with the control group (P <
0.05).Conclusions: In OPCAB, EA with ropivacaine/fentanyl decreases
arterial pressure transiently, optimizes myocardial performance and
influences the perioperative fluid and vasoactive therapy. Postoperative
EI combined with PCEA improves lung function and reduces time to
extubation.Trial Registration: NCT01384175. 2011 Kirov et al; licensee
BioMed Central Ltd.

<21>
Accession Number
21034476
Authors
Futier E. Robin E. Jabaudon M. Guerin R. Petit A. Bazin J.E. Constantin
J.M. Vallet B.
Institution
(Futier) Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Estaing
Hospital, University Hospital of Clermont-Ferrand, 1 Place Lucie Aubrac,
Clermont-Ferrand, 63000, France.
Title
Central venous O saturation and venous-to-arterial CO difference as
complementary tools for goal-directed therapy during high-risk surgery.
Source
Critical care (London, England). 14 (5) (pp R193), 2010. Date of
Publication: 2010.
Abstract
Central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO2) is a useful therapeutic target in
septic shock and high-risk surgery. We tested the hypothesis that central
venous-to-arterial carbon dioxide difference (P(cv-a)CO2), a global index
of tissue perfusion, could be used as a complementary tool to ScvO2 for
goal-directed fluid therapy (GDT) to identify persistent low flow after
optimization of preload has been achieved by fluid loading during
high-risk surgery. This is a secondary analysis of results obtained in a
study involving 70 adult patients (ASA I to III), undergoing major
abdominal surgery, and treated with an individualized goal-directed fluid
replacement therapy. All patients were managed to maintain a respiratory
variation in peak aortic flow velocity below 13%. Cardiac index (CI),
oxygen delivery index (DO2i), ScvO2, P(cv-a)CO2 and postoperative
complications were recorded blindly for all patients. A total of 34% of
patients developed postoperative complications. At baseline, there was no
difference in demographic or haemodynamic variables between patients who
developed complications and those who did not. In patients with
complications, during surgery, both mean ScvO2 (78 +/- 4 versus 81 +/- 4%,
P = 0.017) and minimal ScvO2 (minScvO2) (67 +/- 6 versus 72 +/- 6%, P =
0.0017) were lower than in patients without complications, despite
perfusion of similar volumes of fluids and comparable CI and DO2i values.
The optimal ScvO2 cut-off value was 70.6% and minScvO2 < 70% was
independently associated with the development of postoperative
complications (OR = 4.2 (95% CI: 1.1 to 14.4), P = 0.025). P(cv-a)CO2 was
larger in patients with complications (7.8 +/- 2 versus 5.6 +/- 2 mmHg, P
< 10-6). In patients with complications and ScvO2 >= 71%, P(cv-a)CO2 was
also significantly larger (7.7 +/- 2 versus 5.5 +/- 2 mmHg, P < 10-6) than
in patients without complications. The area under the receiver operating
characteristic (ROC) curve was 0.785 (95% CI: 0.74 to 0.83) for
discrimination of patients with ScvO2 >= 71% who did and did not develop
complications, with 5 mmHg as the most predictive threshold value. ScvO2
reflects important changes in O2 delivery in relation to O2 needs during
the perioperative period. A P(cv-a)CO2 < 5 mmHg might serve as a
complementary target to ScvO2 during GDT to identify persistent inadequacy
of the circulatory response in face of metabolic requirements when an
ScvO2 >= 71% is achieved. Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT00852449.