Cytotoxicity evaluation of hydroxyapatite on human umbilical cord vein endothelial cells for mechanical heart valve prosthesis applications.

Background: Valvular heart disease is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Artificial heart valves are currently the most widely accepted biomedical material. However, the material's blood compatibility is still not sufficient.

Outcome of heart transplantations done in our centre.

Background: We have found no study conducted economic issues on patient outcomes after heart transplantation (HTx) in China for further development.

Material/methods: From May 2004 to February 2006, there were 10 transplants performed in 9 male patients in our center: 1 heart lung recipient and 8 heart recipient. Among them, 7 lacked health insurance and 2 had insurance.