Publications by authors named "Christine E Kamla"

Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) therapy for refractory postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock (rPCS) is associated with high early mortality rates. This study aimed to identify negative predictors of mid-term survival and to assess health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and recovery of the survivors. Between 2017 and 2020, 142 consecutive patients received ECLS therapy following cardiac surgery.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Thrombotic microangiopathies (TMA) are rare diseases, which are defined by the triad microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia and organ damage, and are associated with high morbidity and mortality. The recognition of a TMA and the distinction of important differential diagnoses are key factors, particularly in a perioperative context and in routine clinical intensive care. The further differentiation of the different TMA subtypes, such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli hemolytic uremic syndrome (STEC-HUS) and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), based on the underlying pathophysiology and the development of new targeted treatment options in recent years have significantly improved the prognosis.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Objectives: Acute kidney injury (AKI) following surgery involving the heart-lung-machine is associated with high mortality and morbidity. In addition to the known mechanisms, thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) triggered by the dysregulation of complement activation was recently described as another pathophysiological pathway for AKI following aortic surgery. The aim of this retrospective study was to analyse incidence, predictors and outcome in these patients.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Background: In specialized centers, percutaneous closure using specific occluders is the first-choice treatment in atrial septal defects (ASD). Late complications after this intervention, such as erosion of the aorta or the atria, are rare and have not been sufficiently approached and dealt with in literature. In our clinic we have been faced with the problematic situation of diagnosing and treating such cases.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF