The Prognostic Significance of Atrial Fibrillation and Left Atrium Size in Patients with Aortic Stenosis.

Aim    Aortic stenosis increases left atrial (LA) pressure and may lead to its remodeling. This can cause supraventricular arrhythmia. The aim of this study was to determine if the size of the LA and the presence of atrial fibrillation are related to the prognosis of patients with aortic stenosis.

Respiratory System Function in Patients after Aortic Valve Replacement through Right Anterior Minithoracotomy.

 The aim of the study was to analyze respiratory system function after minimally invasive aortic valve replacement through right anterior minithoracotomy (RAT-AVR).  An observational study of 187 patients electively scheduled for RAT-AVR between January 2010 and December 2013. Pulmonary complications were analyzed and spirometry examinations were performed preoperatively, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery.

Computed Tomography Helps to Plan Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Replacement Operations.

Background: This study evaluated the role of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in preparation for minimally invasive aortic valve replacement (MIAVR).

Methods: An analysis of 187 patients scheduled for MIAVR between June 2009 and December 2014 was conducted. In the study group (n = 86), MDCT of the thorax, aorta, and femoral arteries was performed before the operation.

Perioperative Outcomes of Minimally Invasive Aortic Valve Replacement through Right Anterior Minithoracotomy.

Background The aim of the study was to analyze perioperative outcomes after minimally invasive aortic valve replacement through right anterior minithoracotomy (RAT-AVR). Patient selection criteria, anesthesia protocol, and surgical technique are presented. Methods A retrospective analysis of 194 patients electively scheduled for RAT-AVR was performed between January 2009 and June 2013.

[Lyme carditis presenting as acute coronary syndrome: a case report].

A case of a 26-year-old man with Lyme carditis (LC) mimicking acute coronary syndrome is presented. Considering clinical presentation, electrocardiographic findings and markedly elevated levels of cardiac biomarkers, emergency coronary angiography was performed and revealed normal coronaries. Ventricular arrhythmias of Lown grade IVb during catheterization were recorded.