Cardiology clinics
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Sudden death is often the first manifestation in inherited cardiac arrhythmia syndromes. Patients with long QT syndrome who have an episode of syncope while on beta-blockade should be offered an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). In Brugada syndrome and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, ICDs are often the most effective treatment of primary and secondary prevention of cardiac arrest. Risk stratification is crucial in identifying those at greatest risk to provide lifesaving therapy with an ICD while avoiding complications in those unlikely to receive benefit.
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Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a complex clinical syndrome based on traditional heart failure symptoms with documentation of increased left ventricular filling pressures and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction. The exact mechanisms that induce HFpEF are not known. ⋯ This article reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Current practice guidelines focus on remedying volume overload, aggressively controlling hypertension, and treatment of comorbid conditions that contribute to decompensation.
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The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a critical role in the pathophysiology of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Targeting components of the RAAS has produced significant improvements in morbidity and mortality. ⋯ Angiotensin-receptor blockers may be used instead of ACE inhibitors in patients with intolerance, or in conjunction with ACE inhibitors to further reduce symptoms. Recent data support broader indications for aldosterone antagonists in heart failure, and the combination of an ACE-inhibitor and aldosterone antagonist has become the preferred strategy for dual blockade of the RAAS.
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This article presents an overview of the evolution of cardiac critical care in the past half century. It tracks the rapid advances in the management of cardiovascular disease and how the intensive care area has kept pace, improving outcomes and incorporating successive innovations. The current multidisciplinary, evidence based unit is vastly different from the early days and is expected to evolve further in keeping with the concept of 'hybrid' care areas where care is delivered by the 'heart team'.
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Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a condition in which a marked reduction in cardiac output and inadequate end-organ perfusion results from an array of cardiac insults, the most common of which is acute myocardial infarction. CS is a systemic disease involving a vicious cycle of inflammation, ischemia, and progressive myocardial dysfunction, which often results in death. This life-threatening emergency requires intensive monitoring accompanied by aggressive hemodynamic support; other therapies are tailored to the specific pathophysiology. The development of novel therapeutic strategies is urgently required to reduce the unacceptably high mortality rates currently associated with CS.