Right atrial inflow obstruction of the inferior vena cava due to atrial septal aneurysm and an elongated Eustachian valve.

We describe a patient with oedema of the legs and ascites due to right atrial (RA) inflow obstruction, caused by atrial septal aneurysm (ASA) and an elongated Eustachian valve (EV). Both structural abnormalities created a narrow inflow channel to the free RA cavity. RA inflow obstruction is usually related to constrictive pericardial disease and pericardial tamponade.

Heart rate control via vagus nerve stimulation.

Objectives.  There is ample and well-established evidence that direct electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve can change heart rate in animals and humans. Since tachyarrhythmias cannot always be controlled through medication, we sought, in this pilot study, to elucidate whether a clinical implantable lead system that is used in cervical vagus nerve stimulation therapy (VNS therapy) also can be used for control of heart rate, and tachycardia in particular.

Sustained benefit 20 years after reperfusion therapy in acute myocardial infarction.

Objectives: The goal of this research was to clarify whether the benefit of reperfusion therapy for myocardial infarction was sustained long-term and to assess the gain in life expectancy by reperfusion therapy.

Background: Reperfusion therapy in acute myocardial infarction reduces infarct size and increases hospital survival.

Methods: We analyzed the 20-year outcome of 533 patients (mean age 56 years; 82% men) who were randomized to either reperfusion therapy or conventional therapy during the years 1981 to 1985.