Validation of a new model of selective antegrade cerebral perfusion with circulatory arrest in rats.

Background: Selective antegrade cerebral perfusion (SACP) is adopted as an alternative to deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) during aortic arch surgery. However, there is still no preclinical evidence to support the use of SACP associated with moderate hypothermia (28-30°C) instead of DHCA (18-20°C). The present study aims to develop a reliable and reproducible preclinical model of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with SACP applicable for assessing the best temperature management.

Nitric Oxide in Selective Cerebral Perfusion Could Enhance Neuroprotection During Aortic Arch Surgery.

Background: Hypothermic circulatory arrest (HCA) in aortic arch surgery has a significant risk of neurological injury despite the newest protective techniques and strategies. Nitric oxide (NO) could exert a protective role, reduce infarct area and increase cerebral perfusion. This study aims to investigate the possible neuroprotective effects of NO administered in the oxygenator of selective antegrade cerebral perfusion (SCP) during HCA.

Slow versus fast rewarming after hypothermic circulatory arrest: effects on neuroinflammation and cerebral oedema.

Objectives: Among the factors that could determine neurological outcome after hypothermic circulatory arrest (HCA) rewarming is rarely considered. The optimal rewarming rate is still unknown. The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of 2 different protocols for rewarming after HCA on neurological outcome in an experimental animal model.

Cocoa Flavonoids Reduce Inflammation and Oxidative Stress in a Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Experimental Model.

Consumption of flavonoid-rich nutraceuticals has been associated with a reduction in coronary events. The present study analyzed the effects of cocoa flavonols on myocardial injury following acute coronary ischemia-reperfusion (I/R). A commercially available cocoa extract was identified by chromatographic mass spectrometry.

The fate at mid-term follow-up of the on-pump vs. off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting surgery.

Aims: To evaluate the fate of on-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (ON-pump CABG) vs. off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OP-CABG) surgery at mid-term follow-up.

Methods: From January 2008 to December 2010, 369 patients underwent surgical myocardial revascularization by means of OP-CABG techniques (n = 166) or with ON-pump CABG (n = 203).