The Annals of thoracic surgery
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Bio-Medicus centrifugal ventricular support has been used widely for postcardiotomy cardiac failure. The purpose of this study was to review a large series of support patients examining complications and outcomes. ⋯ Bio-Medicus centrifugal ventricular support can be implemented rapidly and relatively easily. There are few device-related complications and the cost is relatively inexpensive compared with other assist systems. This series demonstrates that a substantial number of patients who experience reversible postcardiotomy myocardial injury will benefit from temporary centrifugal ventricular support.
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Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support for cardiac failure has been used in children since 1981 at the Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh. Most children required support after cardiac operations. Recently, however, a larger number of patients with decompensated cardiomyopathy or myocarditis have been supported with ECMO, which was used as a bridge to transplantation in most. ⋯ We conclude that ECMO support for severe cardiac failure is effective. Patient selection and the use of heart transplantation for intractable heart failure have improved the overall survival.
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In this article, based on a presentation before The Society of Thoracic Surgeons, D. Bruce Burlington, MD, director of the United States Food and Drug Administration's Center for Devices and Radiological Health, describes the role of the Center in regulating medical devices. ⋯ He focuses this discussion on circulatory support devices and therapies for cardiac patients. Throughout the discussion, Dr Burlington encourages manufacturers of new devices to discuss their plans and protocols with the agency before beginning their studies.
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This article provides an overview of the application of intraoperative echocardiography during repair of congenital heart defects based on our experience with 1,000 patients. ⋯ In an era where complete repair of congenital heart defects is emphasized, intraoperative echocardiography provides information that can guide successful operative revision so that babies leave the operating room with optimal results.