The Medical clinics of North America
-
The treatment of cardiogenic shock complicating the acute coronary syndromes consists of medical therapy, percutaneous revascularization procedures, cardiac surgery, and the implantation of devices. Medical therapy is limited to different positive inotropic and vasoactive drugs, without any firm evidence of survival benefit using these drugs. ⋯ Intra-aortic balloon pump counterpulsation maintains its central role as supportive treatment in cardiogenic shock patients. Anecdotal evidence is available about the use of ventricular assist devices, cardiac resynchronization therapy, and emergent heart transplantation.
-
Med. Clin. North Am. · Jul 2007
ReviewPathophysiology of cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction.
Cardiogenic shock is a rapidly progressive, often fatal complication of acute myocardial infarction. A vicious circle of ischemia, decreased cardiac output and reinfarction progress to left ventricular failure and death. The fundamental pathophysiology of this cascade and other mechanisms beyond the classic paradigm of ischemia and dysfunction are discussed in detail.
-
Med. Clin. North Am. · May 2007
ReviewBariatric surgery primer for the internist: keys to the surgical consultation.
The increasing prevalence of morbid obesity in North America combined with the refinement of laparoscopic techniques for the performing these operations has contributed to the exponential growth of bariatric surgery over the last 10 years. There are many important considerations for the internist who is referring a patient for bariatric surgery.
-
Med. Clin. North Am. · May 2007
ReviewPsychosocial and behavioral status of patients undergoing bariatric surgery: what to expect before and after surgery.
Extreme obesity, characterized by a body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m(2) or greater, is associated with significantly increased mortality, principally from cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and several cancers. It also is associated with an increased risk of psychosocial complications, including depression, eating disorders, and impaired quality of life. This article briefly examines the psychosocial status of extremely obese individuals who seek bariatric surgery and describes changes in functioning that can be expected with surgically induced weight loss. The article combines a review of the literature with clinical impressions gained from the more than 2500 candidates for bariatric surgery whom the authors have evaluated at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.
-
Med. Clin. North Am. · May 2007
ReviewPreoperative assessment and perioperative care of patients undergoing bariatric surgery.
The prevalence of morbid obesity in the United States and worldwide is increasing at an alarming rate. The number of bariatric surgical procedures also has steadily increased during the past decade. This article reviews the published literature and current practice trends for preoperative workup and assessment of patients undergoing bariatric surgery.