European journal of cardio-thoracic surgery : official journal of the European Association for Cardio-thoracic Surgery
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Jul 2006
ReviewThe role of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the treatment of sternal wound infection.
Sternal wound dehiscence and infection are major problems for patients and health care providers. A range of risk factors, including diabetes, obesity and internal thoracic artery harvest, has been implicated. Several pathophysiological mechanisms, which may account for the development of infection, have been proposed. ⋯ It has been suggested that there may be a role for hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the treatment of sternal infection. The theoretical mechanisms would seem plausible, but at present there is only limited evidence to support its use. This review addresses the theory and evidence supporting the role of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the treatment of sternal wound infection.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · May 2006
Review Meta AnalysisThe evidence on the effectiveness of management for malignant pleural effusion: a systematic review.
The aim of this study was to review systematically the available evidence on pleurodesis for malignant effusion, focusing on the choice of the agents, route of delivery and other strategies to improve outcomes. Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register) were searched, reference lists checked and letters requesting details of unpublished trials and data sent to authors of previous trials. Studies of malignant pleural effusion in humans were selected with no language restrictions applied. ⋯ Talc appears to be effective and should be the agent of choice for pleurodesis. Thoracoscopic talc insufflation is associated with fewer recurrences of effusions compared with bedside talc slurry, but this is based on two small studies. Where thoracoscopy is unavailable bedside talc pleurodesis has a high success rate and is the next best option.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · May 2006
ReviewOutcomes in patients with interrupted aortic arch and associated anomalies: a 20-year experience.
The surgical results for the repair of interrupted aortic arch (IAA) have evolved in recent years. We report our results for staged repair of this complex congenital malformation. ⋯ Staged repair of IAA using a left carotid artery turn down can be safely applied in IAA patients with and without other intracardiac anomalies with good results. Use of the left carotid artery for arch reconstruction did not result in any detectable neurological events or growth disturbances later in life. Associated anomalies played an important role in outcomes. The long-term probability for reoperation and/or reintervention remains high regardless of operative technique.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Apr 2006
ReviewIs extreme obesity a risk factor for cardiac surgery? An analysis of patients with a BMI > or = 40.
The increasing prevalence of obesity is a public health concern and perceived as a potential risk factor in open heart surgery. We critically appraised the literature available regarding postoperative complications in obese patients. ⋯ Cardiac surgery can be performed without significant increase in perioperative and 30-day mortality in obese and extremely obese patients. Overall complication rates and LOS in patients with BMI> or =40 is increased and demands attention. We provide evidence that rates of few specific complications increase with extreme obesity. For risk stratification in the setting of an obesity epidemic, we advocate an interdisciplinary approach in obese patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Feb 2006
Review Case ReportsTracheal replacement with an aortic autograft.
Tracheal replacement after extensive resection remains a challenge for the thoracic surgeon. We propose an innovative solution: the use of an aortic autograft. After an experimental work on animals with aortic autografts and allografts [Martinod E, Seguin A, Pfeuty K, Fornes P, Kambouchner M, Azorin JF, Carpentier AF. ⋯ The stent was removed at three months. The patient died at six months from an acute pulmonary infection without any sign of anastomosis leakage or graft rupture. A new field of clinical study has to be investigated.