The Annals of thoracic surgery
-
Comparative Study
Comparison of techniques for implantation of aortic valve allografts.
Various implantation techniques for allograft aortic valve replacement have evolved over the years. Our objective was to examine the effects of different implantation methods on subsequent valve performance and durability. ⋯ The insertion of an aortic valve allograft as a cylinder, retaining the sinotubular junction, appears to result in less aortic regurgitation at 7 years postoperatively, and with additional follow-up may result in less reoperation for AR.
-
Centrifugal pumps are being used increasingly for short-term extracorporeal circulation purposes such as during heart operations. Whether the centrifugal pump improves the cardiopulmonary bypass biocompatibility has not been fully documented. ⋯ A heparin-coated cardiopulmonary bypass surface reduces the blood activation potential during cardiopulmonary bypass, and the centrifugal pump causes less hemolysis than the roller pump.
-
Intraaortic balloon pumping is known to be ineffective in severe cardiogenic shock. The efficacy of balloon volumes larger than those commonly used is examined. ⋯ Experimental and clinical data indicate that the effectiveness of intraaortic balloon pumping in severe cardiogenic shock may be improved by increasing the volume of the balloon (i.e., until it fully occupies the aorta).