Postgraduate medicine
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Postgraduate medicine · Mar 2015
ReviewLearning curves for cardiothoracic and vascular surgical procedures--a systematic review.
The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the learning curve (LC) literature and identify the LC of cardiothoracic and vascular surgical procedures. ⋯ LCs in cardiothoracic and vascular procedures are hugely variable depending on the procedure type, outcome measures, level of prior experience, and methods/statistics used. Uniformity in methods, variables, and statistical analysis is needed to derive meaningful comparisons of LCs. Acknowledgment and application of learning processes other than those reliant on volume-outcomes relationship will benefit LC research and training of surgeons.
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Postgraduate medicine · Mar 2015
Case ReportsVisceral angioedema: an under-recognized complication of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors.
Cough and upper airway angioedema are well-recognized adverse reactions of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) therapy. Visceral angioedema is an infrequent and often unrecognized complication of ACEI therapy. We describe a patient in whom the diagnosis was delayed for > 2 years. ⋯ ACEI-induced visceral angioedema was considered, enalapril was discontinued and supportive care was provided. Patient's symptoms and CT appearance improved 48 and 72 hours, respectively, after stopping enalapril. She remained symptom-free 1 year after discharge.