J Cardiovasc Surg
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Despite continuous development of anticalcification treatment for bioprosthetic valves, calcification remains one major cause of structural failure. The aim of this study is to investigate changes in hemodynamic performance and leaflet kinematics in progressively calcified pericardial and porcine aortic valve prostheses. ⋯ In vitro pericardial valves calcified faster and more severe than porcine valves leading to impaired diastolic function with prolongation of closing times and higher closing volume. Systolic function remained almost undisturbed by the calcification process. As a consequence in clinical settings, follow-up examinations for structural valve deterioration in porcine valves should focus on systolic performance, in pericardial valves on diastolic function.
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Patients with depressed left ventricular function are more susceptible to develop postoperative complications after cardiac surgery. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of severe left ventricular dysfunction on the activation of systemic inflammatory reaction during and after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). ⋯ A greater activation of systemic inflammatory reaction occurred in patients with depressed left ventricular function than in patients with normal cardiac function when they underwent CABG with extracorporeal circulation.