European journal of cardio-thoracic surgery : official journal of the European Association for Cardio-thoracic Surgery
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Mar 2001
Outcome of non-elective coronary artery bypass grafting without cardio-pulmonary bypass.
There is limited experience in the use of beating heart coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in emergency and urgent cases. The aim of this study was to retrospectively assess the safety and efficacy of this technique when used in a non-elective setting. ⋯ Non-elective CABG without CPB is feasible and safe with modern cardiac stabilization devices.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Mar 2001
Incidence of chronic pain after minimal-invasive surgery for spontaneous pneumothorax.
Recently, it has been shown that minimal-invasive surgical procedures like operations for spontaneous pneumothorax result in a reduction of pain in the immediate postoperative course. However, little is known on the influence of minimal-invasive thoracic surgery on long term disability. Therefore, we analyzed the incidence of chronic pain in patients after minimal-invasive operation for primary (PSP) or secondary (SSP) spontaneous pneumothorax. ⋯ The incidence of chronic postoperative complaints after minimal-invasive procedures for spontaneous pneumothorax is relatively high. This has to be considered if minimal-invasive procedures are discussed to be an alternative to simple drainage therapy for the first episode of spontaneous pneumothorax.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Mar 2001
Comparative Study Clinical TrialA minimal transverse incision with low median sternotomy for pediatric congenital heart surgery.
Median sternotomy is the incision of choice for most cardiac surgical procedures, but the full-length vertical skin incision generally leaves an unsightly scar. In certain patients undergoing short, low-risk procedures, cosmetic considerations are of relatively greater importance. ⋯ A minimal transverse incision with low median sternotomy provides an alternative approach for small wound open-heart surgery in patients with a simple congenital cardiac defect. It is technically feasible and has a good cosmetic result.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Mar 2001
Is there a role for extracorporeal life support after stage I Norwood?
Controversy still surrounds the use of extracorporeal life support (ECLS) in patients with single ventricle physiology. An analysis of the experience with a group of neonates who underwent stage I Norwood palliation and received ECLS is reported. ⋯ Although the use of ECLS in patients with single ventricle physiology still carries a significant risk, prompt initiation of support can improve the outcome in a group of patients with impaired cardiopulmonary function after stage I palliation.