Journal of thoracic disease
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To investigate the association between fluid balance and postoperative pulmonary complications in patients after esophagectomy for cancer in a high volume cancer center. ⋯ Positive fluid balance in postoperative day 1 is predictive of pulmonary complications in patients after esophagectomy for cancer.
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Early identification and treatment of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) are critical to prevent disease progression. We determined the incidence and risk factors for CTEPH in patients with a first episode of acute pulmonary embolism (PE). ⋯ CTEPH was not rare after acute PE in this Chinese population, especially within 3 years of diagnosis. Lower-limb varicose veins, intermediate-risk PE with elevated SPAP in the acute phase, and residual emboli during follow-up might increase the risk of CTEPH.
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Extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has remarkably progressed over the recent years. It has become an invaluable tool in the care of adults and pediatric patients with severe cardiogenic shock. ⋯ Therefore, it is of extreme importance to ensure an adequate left ventricular drainage. Here we present a case of LV thrombus developed while the patient is on central venoarterial (VA) ECMO.
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Penetrating cardiac injury, caused by intracardiac foreign bodies, presents a big challenge to surgeons for that it is difficult to exactly locate the intracardiac foreign bodies due to the continuous movement of heart. We present the case of successful removal of two self-inflicted intramyocardial needles by minimally invasive procedures. ⋯ The patient was discharged from hospital 5 days after surgery without any complications. In our case, the TTE and TEE provide valuable informations on the choice of surgical procedure, which avoids opening the chest and use of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).