Markers of endothelial dysfunction after cardiac surgery: soluble forms of vascular-1 and intercellular-1 adhesion molecules.

Endothelium forms an inner layer of vascular wall. It plays an important role in inflammatory process, regulation of vascular tone, and synthesis of thromboregulatory substances. Leukocyte and endothelium interactions during inflammation are regulated by different families of adhesion molecules.

Intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation in decompensated cardiomyopathy patients: bridge to transplantation or assist device.

Objectives: The crucial decision to progress from pharmacological treatment of acute decompensated heart failure to institution of assist device or transplantation begins with evaluation of the chances for a successful recovery. We tested whether the intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation (IABP) could give us the necessary time for clinical decision-making and preserve adequate circulation until it is made.

Methods: We assessed 11 dilated cardiomyopathy patients of NYHA class IV, listed for heart transplantation or a ventricular assist device (VAD), who had conventional IABP placed.

Incidence and precipitating factors of delirium after coronary artery bypass grafting.

Objective: To analyze large contemporary patient population, undergoing on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting at our institution, and identify the prevalence and precipitating factors of delirium development.

Design: Baseline demographics, operative data and postoperative outcomes of 1367 consecutive patients were recorded prospectively and analysed using multivariate logistic regression analysis, to determine independent predictors of postoperative delirium development.

Results: Delirium was detected in 42 (3.

Postoperative nausea and vomiting in patients undergoing total abdominal hysterectomy under spinal anaesthesia: a randomized study of ondansetron prophylaxis.

Background And Objective: Patients undergoing total abdominal hysterectomy under general anaesthesia have a high risk of developing postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of PONV in patients undergoing total abdominal hysterectomy under spinal anaesthesia with intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) using morphine and to compare its incidence with and without antiemetic prophylaxis.

Methods: Thirty-four patients undergoing total abdominal hysterectomy under spinal anaesthesia with i.

[Preoperative risk factors and postoperative complications in coronary artery bypass grafting].

Background: Prediction of risk of postoperative complication is necessary for optimal use of available resources and makes possible to compare patient population and postoperative outcomes in different institutions. The goal of the study was to identify preoperative risk factors for morbidity following coronary artery bypass grafting.

Material And Methods: Data of 1829 consecutive patients undergoing surgery for coronary artery disease in Clinics of Santariskes of Vilnius University Hospital.