[Limiting costs of implanted defibrillators].

The use of implanted defibrillators is increasing recently. In view of the costs of a gadget, which amount to DM 40,000 to 45,000, arises the questions which juridical requirement have to exist, that after the death of a patient it is possible to reuse a still functional defibrillator. The solution should be that the health insurance keeps the property, whereas the patient receives merely the defibrillator as loan.

[Therapy with nitrates in the post-infarct phase].

The beneficial effects of nitrates in patients with angina pectoris and acute myocardial infarction have positively influenced the prognosis of the treated patients. Studies of Jugdutt pointed out that there is a better prognosis also in the postinfarction period. Especially left ventricular over dilatation, which follows larger infarct, can be prevented by a consistent nitrate therapy.

[Long-term results of coronary angioplasty].

Recently published studies prove a favourable long term prognosis after coronary angioplasty, especially in patients with single vessel disease. PTCA success, progression of atherosclerosis, cardiac risk factors, extent of coronary artery disease and left ventricular function are determinants of the long term outcome. A lasting PTCA success can be assumed in patients without evidence of restenosis 6 months after PTCA.