Journal of the American College of Cardiology
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J. Am. Coll. Cardiol. · Dec 2013
Trends in hospitalization rates and outcomes of endocarditis among Medicare beneficiaries.
The aim of this study was to determine the hospitalization rates and outcomes of endocarditis among older adults. ⋯ Our study highlights the high burden of endocarditis among older adults. We did not observe an increase in adjusted rates of hospitalization or mortality associated with endocarditis after publication of the 2007 guidelines.
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J. Am. Coll. Cardiol. · Dec 2013
Review Meta AnalysisDoes ascorbic acid protect against contrast-induced acute kidney injury in patients undergoing coronary angiography: a systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials.
This study sought to perform a systematic review with meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing the use of ascorbic acid with placebo or other treatment options for the treatment of contrast induced-acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) in patients undergoing coronary angiography. ⋯ Ascorbic acid provides effective nephroprotection against CI-AKI and may form a part of effective prophylactic pharmacological regimens.
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J. Am. Coll. Cardiol. · Dec 2013
Building quality indicators to improve care for adults with congenital heart disease.
This study sought to develop quality indicators (QIs) for outpatient management of adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) patients. ⋯ This project resulted in development of the first set of QIs for ACHD care based on published data, guidelines, and a modified Delphi process. These QIs provide a quality of care assessment tool for 6 ACHD conditions. This rigorously designed set of QIs should facilitate measuring and improving the quality of care for this growing group of patients.
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J. Am. Coll. Cardiol. · Dec 2013
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative StudyZotarolimus- versus everolimus-eluting stents for unprotected left main coronary artery disease.
This study sought to compare the safety and efficacy of the zotarolimus-eluting stent (ZES) and the everolimus-eluting stent (EES) for treatment of unprotected left main coronary artery (uLMCA) disease. ⋯ Within the statistical limitations of the present study, treatment of uLMCA lesions with a ZES or an EES provided comparable clinical and angiographic outcomes at 1-year follow-up.
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J. Am. Coll. Cardiol. · Dec 2013
Comparative StudySurgical valvotomy and repair for neonatal and infant congenital aortic stenosis achieves better results than interventional catheterization.
This study sought to compare outcomes after surgical valvuloplasty and balloon dilation of the aortic valve in neonates and infants. ⋯ Surgical valvuloplasty remains the best approach to treat neonates and infants with congenital aortic stenosis. After surgery, a higher proportion of patients remain free of re-intervention than after interventional catheterization and the relief of their stenosis lasts longer.