The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Jul 2015
ReviewPropensity scores: Methods, considerations, and applications in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery.
To review the published literature using propensity scoring, describe shortcomings in the use of this technique, and provide conceptual background for understanding and correctly implementing studies that use propensity matching. ⋯ Improved statistical practice is needed when using propensity scoring. This article suggests standard criteria for using this method in Journal publications.
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Jul 2015
Randomized Controlled TrialSimulation-based learning of transesophageal echocardiography in cardiothoracic surgical trainees: A prospective, randomized study.
The Intercollegiate Surgical Curriculum now recommends that cardiac surgical trainees should be able to understand and interpret transesophageal echocardiography images. However, cardiac surgical trainees receive limited formal transesophageal echocardiography training. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of simulation-based teaching versus more traditional operating room teaching on transesophageal echocardiography knowledge in cardiac surgical trainees. ⋯ Despite the familiarity with transesophageal echocardiography images during surgery, subjects in the simulation group performed at least as well as those in the operating room group. Surgical trainees will benefit from formal transesophageal echocardiography teaching incorporated into their training via either learning method.
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Jul 2015
Multicenter Study Clinical TrialFive-year results of the pilot trial of a sutureless valve.
A prospective trial was designed to evaluate the feasibility of the Perceval sutureless aortic valve. We report the 5-year clinical and hemodynamic outcome. ⋯ This study reports the first and longest experience with a truly sutureless valve, evaluating implantation feasibility and valve safety. Results from up to 5 years of follow up confirmed the performance and safety of this device, even in a medium- to high-risk patient population with a small aortic annulus.