Mitral regurgitation after atrioventricular node catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation and heart failure: acute hemodynamic features.

Background: Radiofrequency catheter ablation of the atrioventricular node and pacemaker insertion have been associated with occasional development of mitral regurgitation (MR). Ventricular pacing might result in MR if (1) left ventricular (LV) compliance is decreased and/or (2) mitral valve leaflet apposition is disturbed. We studied acute hemodynamic changes resulting from initiation of ventricular pacing in patients undergoing ablation.

The role of CT in the diagnosis of small bowel obstruction: a case and literature review.

In cases of suspected small bowel obstruction, CT may confirm the diagnosis and demonstrate the cause of obstruction, preventing a delay in surgical treatment. This article reviews several recent cases which demonstrate the utility of CT in this clinical scenario. Also, a review of literature suggests that CT may have a role in differentiating simple from strangulated small bowel obstruction.