The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Dec 2014
Autogenous rib grafts for reconstruction of the manubrium after resection: technical refinements and outcomes.
Sternal reconstruction after resection is essential for restoring the rigidity of the chest cavity. However, no consensus has been reached regarding the most physiologic or efficacious material for this procedure. We present our clinical experience with autogenous rib grafts for reconstruction of the manubrium after resection and discuss the refinements in this procedure. ⋯ This case series demonstrates the successful use of autogenous rib grafts in the reconstruction of the manubrium after resection. We consider that the reconstruction technique is a safe and effective alternative to a complex problem.
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Dec 2014
Losartan ameliorates "upstream" pulmonary vein vasculopathy in a piglet model of pulmonary vein stenosis.
Pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is a relentless disease with a poor prognosis. Although surgical repair can effectively treat "downstream" (near left atrial junction) PVS, residual "upstream" (deep in lung parenchyma) PVS commonly dictates long-term survival. Our initial studies revealed an association between PVS and transforming growth factor-β signaling, which led us to investigate the effect of losartan on upstream pulmonary vein vasculopathy in a piglet model of PVS. ⋯ Losartan treatment improved PVS-associated pulmonary hypertension and intimal hyperplasia and might be a beneficial prophylactic therapy for patients at high risk of developing PVS after pulmonary vein surgery.
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Dec 2014
Editorial Biography Historical ArticleHistorical perspectives of The American Association for Thoracic Surgery: G. Alexander Patterson.