European journal of cardio-thoracic surgery : official journal of the European Association for Cardio-thoracic Surgery
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Apr 2002
Comparative StudyStage I palliation for hypoplastic left heart syndrome in low birth weight neonates: can we justify it?
Although the outcome of cardiac surgery in neonates with low birth weight (LBW) has improved, LBW remains a risk factor for surgical palliation. Few surgical series of LBW patients include those with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). To identify variables associated with poor outcome in this group, we reviewed our experience with patients with HLHS and LBW who underwent Stage I Norwood palliation. ⋯ LBW newborns with HLHS and physiologic variants have an increased early surgical risk but have acceptable intermediate survival rates for subsequent palliation including Fontan. LBW and prematurity should not be contraindications to early surgical palliation.
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Vocal cord paralysis is a known entity often described as a complication of neck surgery. A less frequent site of injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve is the chest. The left side is usually more affected than the right side in view of its long intrathoracic segment. ⋯ Several mechanisms of injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve have been suggested: (1) through central venous catheterization; (2) by traction on the esophagus; (3) by direct vocal cord damage or palsy from a traumatic endotracheal intubation; (4) trauma by compression of the recurrent laryngeal nerve or its anterior branch at the tracheoesophageal groove by an inappropriately sized endotracheal tube cuff; (5) by a faulty insertion of a nasogastric tube; (6) median sternotomy and/or sternal traction pulling laterally on both subclavian arteries; (7) direct manipulation and retraction of the heart during open-heart procedures; (8) hypothermic injury with ice/slush. If vocal cord paralysis was overlooked as a possible complication of open-heart surgery, the patient may suffer from dysphonia in addition to problems of paramount importance such as inefficient cough and aspiration. Although it is true that the incidence of vocal cord paralysis remains very low, yet its presence is alarming and necessitates close follow up on the patient for the possible need of surgical intervention if recovery fails.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Apr 2002
Comparative StudyVascular complications of intra-aortic balloon insertion in patients undergoing coronary reavscularization: analysis of 911 cases.
Intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) is a well-accepted and widely used mechanical circulatory support in cardiac surgical practice. We evaluated the vascular complications of IABP and risk factors associated with the development of these complications in patients undergoing myocardial revascularization. ⋯ IABP therapy is associated with certain vascular complications, which should always be kept in mind before insertion of a balloon. The use of a balloon without sheath and proper evaluation of peripheral circulation can help to minimize the development of vascular complications.
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Iatrogenic tracheobronchial ruptures are seldom but severe complications after intubation or bronchoscopy. Therefore, we evaluated the reasons, the subsequent therapy and the outcome of patients with tracheal rupture, who were admitted to our hospital. ⋯ Iatrogenic tracheal rupture is a dangerous complication with potentially high postoperative mortality, mostly influenced by the underlying disease. Early surgical repair must be the preferred treatment.
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Apr 2002
Comparative StudyDoes lung biopsy help patients with interstitial lung disease?
The decision to perform lung biopsy in the evaluation of interstitial lung disease (ILD) is based on the probability that this examination will yield a specific diagnosis, leading to a change in treatment. The purpose of this study was to identify factors that influence the diagnostic yield of lung biopsy for ILD. ⋯ Lung biopsy does not always provide a specific diagnosis and does not always change therapy. The site, size, number, and laterality of the biopsy specimen have no definite influence on diagnosis. There is a trend to improve diagnostic yield by carrying out two or more biopsies on the right lung.