Rev Esp Cardiol
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We report a woman with a VVI pacemaker and a history of stroke and severe hypoxemia due to a right-to-left shunt. Anomalous blood flow was through a patent foramen oval, and was related directly with severe tricuspid regurgitation because the ventricular pacemaker electro de was adhered to the tricuspid valve. She was treated successfully with surgery. We review the role of patent foramen ovale from a clinical point of view, and current therapeutic options.
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In the last few years there have been changes in the pattern of consumption of antihypertensive drugs in Spain. This study aimed to describe the pattern of use in Spain from 1995 to 2001, its compliance with guidelines, and its economic impact. An aim of particular interest for our study was the impact of angiotensin II receptor antagonists on the consumption of the drugs from other therapeutic subgroups. ⋯ The consumption of antihypertensive drugs in Spain has increased remarkably in the last 7 years. Likewise, costs have increased proportionately, although the contributions of different therapeutic subgroups have been unequal. The impact of angiotensin II receptor antagonists has been considerable, both on consumption and on costs.
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Comparative Study
[Postmyocardial infarction cardiac rehabilitation in low risk patients. Results with a coordinated program of cardiological and primary care].
To assess the efficacy of cardiac rehabilitation with a mixed primary and cardiological care program in patients with low-risk myocardial infarction. ⋯ After 1 year of follow-up, the cardiac rehabilitation program coordinated by cardiological and primary care services for low-risk post-MI patients improved quality of life, and increased exercise tolerance, active employment, and the number of participants who quit smoking. The mixed program also reduced body mass index. These results suggest the need for similar programs.
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The presence of post-anoxic encephalopathy after an episode of aborted sudden cardiac death is a serious medical and social problem. ⋯ Most patients admitted to a coronary unit with aborted sudden cardiac death died during hospitalization. Almost half of the survivors had post-anoxic encephalopathy at discharge; of these patients, 62% died within the following 6 months, and functional status improved only in a minority of them.