White matter disease in magnetic resonance imaging predicts cerebral complications after coronary artery bypass grafting.

Background: The aim of the present study was to assess neurologic and neuropsychologic complications in 104 patients randomized to coronary artery bypass grafting or spinal cord stimulation. An additional objective of the study was to assess whether preoperative white matter disease might predict cerebral complications, as previous studies have shown that there is a relationship between white matter disease and neuropsychologic decline after coronary artery bypass grafting.

Methods: The patients were subjected to neurologic examination before and six months after intervention.

Temporary cessation of spinal cord stimulation in angina pectoris-effects on symptoms and evaluation of long-term effect determinants.

Background: Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been used since 1985 for patients with refractory angina pectoris. Spinal cord stimulation has anti-ischaemic effects and reduces angina effectively. After long-term treatment, temporary cessation of stimulation may occur due to SCS battery depletion or electrode fracture.