Clinical cardiology
-
Clinical cardiology · May 1996
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Clinical TrialIntravenous propafenone in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, multicenter clinical trial. Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation Italian Trial (PAFIT)-2 Investigators.
Pharmacological conversion of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is frequently necessary. The aim of this study was to compare intravenous propafenone, a class Ic antiarrhythmic agent, with placebo in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) of recent onset (< 72 h). ⋯ Intravenous propafenone is an effective therapeutic option for restoring sinus rhythm in patients with paroxysmal AF of recent onset.
-
Clinical cardiology · May 1996
Case ReportsIntramural hematoma of the aorta caused by a penetrating atheromatous ulcer.
Aortic dissection is a life-threatening condition which is difficult to diagnose because of its variable clinical presentation and diverse pathophysiologic manifestations. We present a case in which intramural hematoma of the thoracic aorta occurred in the absence of an intimal flap. ⋯ Transesophageal echocardiography also revealed a penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer in the transverse aorta as a cause of the hematoma. A high index of clinical suspicion and a combination of diagnostic procedures resulted in proper diagnosis and successful surgical treatment.