RADIAL: a novel primary graft failure risk score in heart transplantation.

Background: Primary graft failure (PGF) is the leading cause of early mortality after heart transplantation (HT). Our aim is to propose a working definition of PGF and to develop a predictive risk score.

Methods: PGF was defined by four criteria reflecting significant myocardial dysfunction, severe hemodynamic impairment, early onset after HT, and absence of secondary causes of graft dysfunction.

[Lesions produced by radiofrequency ablation of the cavotricuspid isthmus in an experimental model].

Introduction And Objectives: Experimental studies have shown that deeper and wider lesions (up to 10 mm long or deep) can be safely created using an 8 mm or irrigated tip catheter for ablation to treat atrial flutter. However, potential damage to the tricuspid valve or inferior cava vein has not been systematically evaluated.

Patients And Method: The cavotricuspid isthmus was ablated in 26 pigs (body weight 26-52 kg), with a total of 187 radiofrequency pulses.

Use of irbesartan to maintain sinus rhythm in patients with long-lasting persistent atrial fibrillation: a prospective and randomized study.

Background: Data from studies of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors provide evidence that the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system plays a role as a mediator of atrial remodeling in atrial fibrillation. The present study has evaluated the effect of treatment with the angiotensin I type 1 receptor blocker irbesartan on maintaining sinus rhythm after conversion from persistent atrial fibrillation.

Methods And Results: To be included in the present study, patients must have had an episode of persistent atrial fibrillation for >7 days.