[InspeCKD - Analysis of the use of diagnostics in patients at high risk for chronic kidney disease in German general practitioner (GP) practices].

Background: Despite the high prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Germany, only a small proportion of patients are currently diagnosed with CKD. Patients with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and/or cardiovascular disease have a significantly increased risk of developing CKD and rapid disease progression and should therefore be screened and monitored in accordance with the guidelines.

Objectives: The aim of this retrospective, cross-sectional study was to gain insights into appropriate diagnosis of patients at risk for CKD in German general practitioner practices.

Hemodynamic assessment using apical suction versus pericardial retraction in beating heart surgery.

Objective: : Aim of this study was to evaluate the perioperative hemodynamic function using an apical suction device (Xpose = XS) versus standard pericardial retraction sutures (PS) during off-pump myocardial revascularization.

Methods: : Twenty-seven consecutive patients (four female) with three-vessel disease receiving off-pump myocardial revascularization were prospectively evaluated. Mean age was 70 ± 8 years and mean ejection fraction was 55 ± 18%.

Twelve-month patency with the PAS-port proximal connector device: a single center prospective randomized trial.

Background: The PAS-Port (Cardica Inc, Redwood City, CA) is an automated system that allows for the clampless anastomosis of vein grafts to the aorta. The intent of this study was to prospectively compare one year graft patency of this system with conventional hand-sewn anastomoses in a prospective, randomized trial.

Methods: A total of 99 patients undergoing elective off-pump coronary bypass surgery were randomized to receive their proximal anastomoses with either the hand-sewn conventional technique or with the PAS-Port system.

Combined mitral valve repair, LVOT myectomy and left atrial cryoablation therapy.

Asymmetric septal hypertrophy (ASH) is a common cause of left ventricular (LV) outflow tract obstruction. Mitral valve (MV) regurgitation is present in 30% of those patients as well as biatrial enlargement. Furthermore, paroxysmal or chronic atrial fibrillation (AF) occurs in up to 22%.

Anastomotic devices for coronary artery bypass grafting: technological options and potential pitfalls.

With the advent of off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting and minimally invasive coronary artery bypass grafting, significant efforts have been made to facilitate construction of the graft to coronary anastomosis. As a result, a number of anastomotic devices have been developed. While the ideal anastomotic device should be easy to use, to produce a geometrically optimal anastomosis with minimal endothelial damage and minimal blood-exposed non-intimal surface, a number of design constraints apply.