High risk of development of renal cell tumor in end-stage kidney disease: the role of microenvironment.

End-stage renal disease (ESRD) and acquired cystic renal disease (ACRD) are associated with high risk of development of renal cell tumors (RCT) displaying unusual phenotype and genotype. The underlying molecular mechanism is not yet known. To explore the molecular microenvironment, we have established the expression profile of ESRD/ACRD kidneys.

Creation of a tricuspid valve regurgitation model from tricuspid annular dilatation using the cardioport video-assisted imaging system.

Background And Aim Of The Study: Experimental models of tricuspid valve regurgitation (TR) are used to study novel annuloplasty techniques (including prosthetic rings), and they can also serve as physiologic models to investigate TR pathophysiology. The study aim was to develop an appropriate simple and reproducible experimental model of TR from annular dilatation.

Methods: Acute TR was successfully created through multiple small 3- to 5-mm incisions in the annulus using a custom-made optical port with an instrument shaft (the Cardioport) that accepts a standard endoscopic imaging system.