[NMDA receptor antagonists in focal cerebral ischemia. An experimental model].

Ischemic cerebrovascular disease is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. One common final pathway in neuronal ischemic damage is the uncontrolled influx of calcium into the cell, mediated by voltage dependent channels or activation of the NMDA (N-methyl D-aspartate) receptor. The therapeutic utility of a non-competitive NMDA blocker (MK-801, 2 mg/kg i.

Relationship of myocardial morphometry in aortic valve regurgitation to myocardial function and post-operative results.

In 24 patients with aortic insufficiency undergoing aortic valve replacement, a clinical and hemodynamic study was performed pre-operatively. Left ventricular biopsies were obtained perioperatively for morphometric study. No significant relations were found when morphometric data were compared to functional class, cardiothoracic radio and ECG findings.

[Valvular cardiopathies due to nonpenetrating injury. Apropos of a surgical case of aortic insufficiency].

One case of traumatic aortic valve regurgitation operated upon is reported, and published cases of cardiac valve regurgitation caused by non-penetrating traumas are reviewed. This study demonstrates the relatively high frequency of traumatic heart diseases and among these, valve lesions. The dynamic disturbance occurs suddenly in a heart that is usually healthy and therefore without adaptation mechanism.

[Aortic valve replacement by bioprosthesis with enlargement of the aortic ring].

Small diameter aortic valve bioprostheses are associated with resting ventriculo-aortic pressure gradients of 10 to 35 mmHg. In order to avoid this factor favouring degradation of left ventricular function and early deterioration of the bioprosthesis, we enlarged the aortic ring when the diameter was less than 23 mm in patients considered unsuitable for long-term anticoagulation. The surgical technique involved incising the annulus from the postero-lateral commissure to the anterior mitral leaflet and implanting a Dacron patch lined with pericardium.