Association of aortic stiffness with abdominal vascular and coronary calcifications in patients with stage 3 and 4 chronic kidney disease.

Rationale And Objectives: Increased central (aortic) arterial stiffness has hemodynamic repercussions that affect the incidence of cardiovascular and renal disease. In chronic kidney disease (CKD) there may be an increase in aortic stiffness secondary to multiple metabolic alterations including calcification of the vascular wall (VC). The objective of this study was to analyze the association of central aortic pressures and aortic stiffness with the presence of VC in abdominal aorta (AAC) and coronary arteries(CAC).

Single incision versus reduced port splenectomy--searching for the best alternative to conventional laparoscopic splenectomy.

Background: Laparoscopic splenectomy (LS) is a well accepted approach for the treatment of multiple hematologic diseases. Single port access splenectomy (SPAS) emphasizes the concept of surgery through one small incision. The reduced port access splenectomy (RPAS) entails the use of fewer trocars of smaller sizes.

Continuing medical education and professional revalidation in Europe: five case examples.

Introduction: Since reliable information is scarce to describe continuing medical education (CME) and revalidation in Europe, we carried out a survey in 5 selected countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom).

Methods: A tested questionnaire was sent to 2 experts per country (except in Germany), during August-September 2004.

Results: In the analyzed countries medical societies, medical associations, and employers are the main CME providers.