Cardiovascular surgery (London, England)
-
In spite of improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of thromboembolic disease, pulmonary embolism continues to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Anticoagulation remains the preferred therapy for deep venous thrombosis; however, this form of treatment is either ineffective or contraindicated for some patients. ⋯ We described in this paper results obtained with the available permanent filters and complications of these filters described in the literature. We highlighted the interest of temporary filters in patients whose thromboembolic risk is temporary, finally we insist on recognised indications for vena cava filters when anticoagulation is contraindicated or ineffective.
-
The purpose of this study was to examine the necessity of intensive care unit (ICU) utilization following carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and to identify patients who can be managed postoperatively on a vascular unit using a clinical protocol. ⋯ A clinical protocol can select patients for admission to the ICU or the vascular unit following CEA without increase in morbidity or mortality. Selective use of the ICU conserved resources, decreased ICU LOS, and provided substantial cost savings.