Journal of the American College of Cardiology
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J. Am. Coll. Cardiol. · Jan 2013
Randomized Controlled TrialPredicting survival in patients receiving continuous flow left ventricular assist devices: the HeartMate II risk score.
The aim of this study was to derive and validate a model to predict survival in candidates for HeartMate II (HMII) (Thoratec, Pleasanton, California) left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support. ⋯ The HMRS might be useful for mortality risk stratification in HMII candidates and may serve as an additional tool in the patient selection process.
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J. Am. Coll. Cardiol. · Jan 2013
Meta AnalysisA meta-analysis reporting effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers in patients without heart failure.
The goal of the study was to assess the effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-Is) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) on the composite of cardiovascular (CV) death, myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke, and on all-cause death, new-onset heart failure (HF), and new-onset diabetes mellitus (DM) in high-risk patients without HF. ⋯ In patients at high CV risk without HF, ACE-Is and ARBs reduced the risk of the composite outcome of CV death, MI, and stroke. ACE-Is also reduced the risk of all-cause death, new-onset HF, and new-onset DM. Thus, ARBs represent a valuable option to reduce CV mortality and morbidity in patients in whom ACE-Is cannot be used.
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J. Am. Coll. Cardiol. · Jan 2013
Readmissions after implantation of axial flow left ventricular assist device.
The purpose of this study was to determine the occurrence and causes of readmissions after implantation of axial flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD). ⋯ Readmission rates after axial flow LVAD implantation decrease during the first 6 months and then stabilize. The leading causes are bleeding, cardiac (heart failure and arrhythmia), infections, and thrombosis.