Myocardial revascularization using on-pump beating heart among patients with left ventricular dysfunction.

Objectives: On-pump beating heart technique for myocardial revascularization has been used successfully among both low and high risk patients. Its application among low ejection fraction patients is limited. The aim of our study is to evaluate this technique among patients with low ejection fraction and to compare results with off-pump bypass technique.

Acute mitral valve endocarditis complicated by right atrial fistula in beta-thalassemia major.

Infection is considered to be among the major complications encountered in beta-thalassemia major, with an incidence that may reach 13%. The majority of cases are caused by repeated blood transfusion potentiated by the associated immune defects among these patients. The present case represents a severe form of infection affecting the mitral valve, causing acute heart failure and a fistulous communication between the left ventricle and right atrium.