How to minimize the circulatory arrest time by using the Thoraflex Hybrid prosthesis: the 'release and perfuse' technique.

Although the frozen elephant trunk technique permits a complete single-stage treatment in patients with extended thoracic aortic disease, the problem of circulatory arrest time remains unsolved. We propose a simplified use of the Thoraflex Hybrid prosthesis to minimize the circulatory arrest time.

Mid-term results of self-testing of the international normalized ratio in adults with a mechanical heart valve.

Background: Commonly the frequency of international normalized ratio (INR) monitoring with a conventional laboratory test in stable patients is once a month. When using a dedicated personal device for INR assessment, the frequency may be increased to two or more times a month.

Objective: To show that INR assessed by self-measurement at home is reliable and feasible in the mid-term and improves medical care.