Does moderate tricuspid regurgitation require attention during mitral valve surgery?

Background: This study aims to determine whether tricuspid regurgitation (TR) ≥ 2+ requires attention during mitral valve surgery.

Methods: From April 1999 to 2009, 161 patients undergoing primary, isolated mitral valve procedures were assessed. Preoperative moderate TR (≥2+) was present in 56 of 161 patients and tricuspid valve repair (TVR: ring annuloplasty) was carried out on 22 of 56 patients with TR ≥ 2+.

Ischemic cardiomyopathy: midterm survival and its predictors.

Background: the aim of the study was to analyze all-cause mortality and predictors of long-term survival after myocardial revascularization for ischemic cardiomyopathy.

Method: data of 101 patients (mean age, 63.86 years; age range, 30-85 years; 92% male), operated on with stable coronary artery disease and left ventricular ejection fraction <30% between April 2000 and June 2010, were analyzed.

Surgical pulmonary embolectomy: mid-term outcomes.

Background: Despite the widespread use of venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in hospitalized patients, pulmonary embolism continues to occur. Massive pulmonary embolism is associated with a high mortality. Surgical embolectomy has traditionally been reserved for cases with haemodynamic collapse or where thrombolysis is contraindicated or has failed.

Surgical management and mid-term outcomes of 108 patients with infective endocarditis.

This study evaluates the early and mid-term outcomes, predictors of mortality and morbidity and quality of life of patients operated for infective endocarditis. Data on 108 patients undergoing 113 surgical procedures during October 1998 to January 2010 was prospectively collected. NYHA Class was >III in 49 (43.

Contemporary results following surgical repair of acute type a aortic dissection (AAAD): a single centre experience.

Objectives: The study aims to define predictors of neurological dysfunction, 30-day mortality, long-term survival and quality of life following repair of acute type A aortic dissection (AAAD).

Methods: Between 2000 and 2008, 65 patients underwent repair of AAAD. Sixty-four pre-, intra- and post-operative variables were studied.

Early and mid-term outcomes following surgical management of infective endocarditis with associated cerebral complications: a single centre experience.

Background: Surgical management of patients with infective endocarditis (IE) who have suffered preoperative cerebrovascular complications remains controversial. This study evaluates the impact of timing from stroke to valvular surgery on the early and mid-term neurological sequelae, functional status and quality of life in this high-risk group of patients with IE.

Method: Data on 13/108 (12%) patients with IE who suffered cerebrovascular complications during the period 1998-2009 was prospectively collected.