Pulmonary Infarction: In the Beginning: The Natural History of Pulmonary Infarction.

Background: Massive pulmonary emboli can cause an abrupt onset of symptoms simultaneous with large pulmonary artery occlusions. In contrast, the temporal relationship between pulmonary vascular occlusion by smaller emboli and the development of symptoms of pulmonary infarction is unknown. We describe the time interval between embolization and the onset of clinical symptoms and signs compatible with pulmonary infarction.

Effects of off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting on patient outcome.

Background: Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is associated with postoperative myocardial stunning, hypothermia, formation of microemboli, and systemic inflammatory response syndrome, all of which may prolong recovery from coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery. This study sought to compare outcomes in patients undergoing CABG off pump versus on pump.

Methods: Outcomes, including mortality and several morbidities, were reviewed in 1,623 on-pump patients and 683 off-pump patients.