J Cardiovasc Surg
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To determine the incidence and predictors of postoperative myocardial ischemia in non-coronary risk patients undergoing surgery for thoracic aortic aneurysms. ⋯ The use of total cardiopulmonary bypass is predictive of perioperative myocardial ischemia in surgery for thoracic aortic aneurysms, probably due to the production of proinflammatory cytokines by systemic ischemia and reperfusion. Prophylactic use of coronary vasodilators may be validated in these cases.
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Recovery following successful coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) has been dramatically improved with the use of fast-track methods. Although data exist that demonstrate a significant gender difference in survival following CABG, little is known about factors influencing gender-specific recovery. This report describes a series of consecutive patients undergoing isolated CABG to determine gender-associated factors that may impact outcomes and recovery. ⋯ Women had similar operative mortality and postoperative complication rates to men under a rapid recovery protocol. However, women have a longer recovery interval compared to men, which may be a reflection of their higher preoperative risk profile.