Regional Changes in Leaflet Coaptation Dynamics After Total Tricuspid Reconstruction.

Background: Stentless porcine extracellular matrix tricuspid tube grafts were developed for tricuspid valve reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to conduct an echocardiographic assessment of the performance of native and tube graft leaflets in an acute porcine model.

Methods: Fourteen 65-kg pigs were randomly assigned to tube graft (n = 7) or control with native valve preservation (n = 7).

[Airway obstruction and massive subcutaneous emphysema].

Airway obstruction caused by massive subcutaneous emphysema (MSE) in the chest and neck region is a rare complication to tension pneumothorax. We describe the condition in a 91-year-old male in whom rapidly progressing MSE caused airway obstruction. As a result of progressing airway obstruction acute intubation was performed prior to completion of tube thoracostomy resulting in immediate improvement of the condition.