MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'cardiac surgery'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:07:50 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5174698&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2F3HSqgMDWmdY%2Fresearchers-develop-method-of-joining-blood-vessels-without-sutures.html For 100 years, the process of vascular anastomosis has largely been the same. Surgeons take a needle and thread and delicately suture together the walls of the blood vessel. Though literally sewing together blood vessels is a widely utilized surgical procedure, it isn’t without its issues. Intimal hyperplasia, a cell response to the trauma of the needle and thread, causes blood vessels to narrow which increases the risk of a blood clot or localized turbulence. Sutures may trigger an immune response that causes dangerous inflammation. Moreover, suturing becomes extremely challenging on blood vessels that are less than one millimeter in diameter. Microsurgeons at Stanford University have developed a new method of vascular anastomosis that is safer and faster. The key ingredient in this... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5174698 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 19:08:22 +0100 5174698 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159270&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2F3b-Ua7UgbLo%2Fmedgadget-interview-what-to-expect-and-how-to-make-informed-treatment-decisions-when-transcatheter-valve-therapy-comes-to-u-s.html The American College of Cardiology (ACC) and Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) recently published a consensus statement warning that transcatheter valve therapy (TVT) must be adopted carefully and selectively until these emergent technologies are tested more thoroughly. Also, according to the authors of the document, the procedures should only be performed at specialty centers with multidisciplinary teams of cardiologists and surgeons. To clarify for our readers the implications of the position statement, we asked cardiologist Robert Kipperman, M.D., the principal investigator for the Everest II MitraClip Trial and the CoreValve trial at the Advanced Therapy Unit at Gagnon Cardiovascular Institute at Morristown Medical Center in New Jersey, to answer the following questions: Medgadget: Wh... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159270 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 16:16:58 +0100 5159270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5139626&cid=t_96254_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F08%2F18%2Fsafe-and-sustainable-review-of-childrens-congenital-heart-services-in-england-interim-health-impact-assessment%2F Title: Safe and sustainable: Review of Children’s Congenital Heart Services in England Interim Health Impact Assessment Scan or click to download ‘Safe and sustainable: Safe and sustainable: Review of Children’s Congenital Heart Services in England Interim Health Impact Assessment’ The Skinny: Looks at the impact of moving to Congenital heart networks as the new model of care to ensure that in future care for children and young people with congenital heart disease are better coordinated. Within the new model of care, each network would include a Specialist Surgical Centre, a Children’s Cardiology Centre and District Children’s Cardiology Services. It states that concentrating surgical expertise onto fewer sites and bringing non-surgical care closer to home wi... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5139626 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 12:38:06 +0100 5139626 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130846&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FSHuDbMMxlcs%2Fmitroflow-aortic-pericardial-heart-valve-with-phospholipid-reduction-treatment-gets-eu-ok.html Sorin Group received the European CE Mark approval for the Mitroflow Aortic Pericardial Heart Valve with PRT. The Phospholipid Reduction Treatment (PRT) of the valve is intended to reduce the calcification of the device and hopefully make it durable as the years wear on. From the announcement: Research has demonstrated that phospholipids play a key role in the calcification process of biosprotheses. PRT has been shown to decrease phospholipid content in the pericardial tissue, which leads to a reduction of up to 99% of calcium uptake in the treated pericardial tissue. The addition of PRT to the Mitroflow bioprosthesis will help mitigate potential calcification and possibly further improve the tissue valve’s clinically proven outstanding durability. Press release: Sorin Group Receives CE ... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130846 Mon, 15 Aug 2011 21:03:54 +0100 5130846 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130851&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FVRZhTjLQxpc%2Fmasimo-reintroduces-pronto-7-finger-sensor-after-recall.html We reported on the introduction of Masimo‘s Pronto 7 back in June 2010. To review, this handheld, noninvasive device provides a spot-check of hemoglobin (SpHb), SpO2, pulse rate, and perfusion index.  Since then, Masimo voluntarily recalled the sensors associated with this device due to problems with reliability of data at low ambient temperatures.  The company has subsequently redesigned the sensors and re-validated the data with thousands of patients. With the new sensors validated, Masimo has initiated international availability of Pronto-7 in Europe, Middle East, Africa, South America, and Asia (except for countries requiring clearance, such as Japan). As far as the U.S. is concerned, FDA 510(k) clearance is pending at this time. Masimo Founder and CEO, Joe Kiani, stated: &#822... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130851 Mon, 15 Aug 2011 15:29:56 +0100 5130851 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5125820&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FvBnewgNI6JA%2Fsquair-evacuates-surgical-smoke-to-reduce-or-aroma-of-roasted-human.html Via MedCity News we learn of an interesting new device from Nascent Surgical out of Eden Prairie, Minnesota that effectively evacuates almost all the smoke arising from coagulation or use of Bovies and similar electrosurgical devices. The SQUAIR, as the device is called, is placed around the incision site, with the line of the incision running down the opening of the device.  Once surgery has begun and the vacuum-like unit is hooked up, the SQUAIR sucks up any smoke coming off the patient without any attention given to it by the clinicians. Here’s a video introducing and demonstrating the operation of the SQUAIR: Product page: SQUAIR Surgical Smoke Capture System … More from MedCity News… (Source: Medgadget) Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5125820 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 17:25:26 +0100 5125820 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5125823&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FHryk4-WPp3g%2Fworldheart-corporation-ends-its-levacor-ventricular-assist-device-program-to-focus-on-next-generation-miflow-vads.html World Heart Corporation (WorldHeart) announced on July 29th, 2011 that it shall no longer pursue commercialization of their Levacor Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) technology and will focus on a smaller, new-generation MiFlow VAD.  WorldHeart’s investor page notes that with continued delay of their Bridge-To-Transplant Study and associated device refinements they no longer see Levacor as a commercially competitive product.  The Levacor VAD, a centrifugal pump that is completely magnetically levitated unlike other assist devices with mechanical or blood-lubricated bearings, is designed for adults with late-stage heart failure as a bridge to transplant. The company plans to focus on next generation technology such as the MiFlow VAD, a device designed to provide cardiac output flow up to ... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5125823 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:43:40 +0100 5125823 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5107634&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FnPGb4iQIlOQ%2Felite-bi-caval-double-lumen-catheter-as-bridge-towards-lung-transplantation.html Surgeons at the University of Kentucky used a novel dual lumen veno-venous extracorporeal catheter as a bridge to lung transplantation in a patient with a severe pulmonary lung disease. The device was invented by two university faculty members, Dr. Joseph Zwischenberger and Dr. Dongfang Wang. With current techniques, a patient is sedated while using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Consequently, the patient is bedridden, which causes the muscles to become increasingly weak. However, the bi-caval double lumen catheter, manufactured by Avalon Laboratories (Rancho Dominguez, CA), is an advanced form of ECMO, also known as “ambulatory artificial lungs.” The bi-caval double lumen catheter is a radiopaque, kink resistant veno-venous device that enables extracorporeal lif... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5107634 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 15:41:13 +0100 5107634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5103395&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FEqP5_OEbbyw%2Fmedtronic%25e2%2580%2599s-second-mri-compatible-pacing-system-gets-fda-approval-for-a-us-clinical-trial.html The FDA approved Medtronic’s Investigational Device Exemption application and clinical trial protocol to assess the safety and effectiveness of the Advisa DR MRI Surescan pacing system in a clinical MRI setting.  The study will also provide data on how the MRI image quality is affected by the presence of an implanted pacemaker. The device, as reported prior on Medgadget, has already received European approval in the past. This will be the 2nd MRI compatible system potentially to be available in the US.  The first being Medtronic’s Revo MRI SureScan that received approval last February. From Medtronic: The Advisa MRI study is a prospective, randomized controlled, non-blinded, multi-center worldwide investigational study to confirm safety and effectiveness of the pacing system in the c... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5103395 Fri, 05 Aug 2011 16:30:03 +0100 5103395 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5086304&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2Feab8jdTrxfc%2Fa-new-chance-on-life%25e2%2580%25a6fda-advisory-panel-recommends-humanitarian-device-exemption-for-the-berlin-heart-excor-pediatric-ventricular-assist-device.html Another big endorsement by the FDA Circulatory System Devices Advisory Panel took place on July 21, 2011. The committee overwhelmingly agreed (16 to 0 vote) that the Berlin Heart Excor Pediatric Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) be granted a humanitarian device exemption (HDE).  The device, as reported prior on Medgadget, provides mechanical circulatory support as a bridge to heart transplantation in pediatric patients suffering from severe isolated left ventricular or biventricular dysfunction.  The sponsors of the VAD presented data from a recent prospective, non-randomized, multi-center, single arm study assessing the safety and probable benefit of the device.  48 children were enrolled in the trial and their outcomes were compared to those receiving ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxyge... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5086304 Mon, 01 Aug 2011 18:17:08 +0100 5086304 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069473&cid=t_96254_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fone-nurse-opens-her-heart-and-talks-about-her-life-in-the-medical-field%2F2011.07.27 Well, not my heart. I was contacted awhile ago and asked if I wanted the chance to read and review Tilda Shalof’s new book, Opening My Heart.  (Amazon link, but NOT an affiliate link – I live in California and due to a new law, Amazon has cut all ties with us). I had the chance to include a story in a book that Tilda edited a couple of years ago called Lives in the Balance.  So I had fond memories I’ll say up front that I enjoyed the book.  I had a range of emotions while reading it – frustration, worry, happiness.  Frustration because although Tilda is a very experienced ICU nurse, she doesn’t take her own health seriously at all.  I read with disbelief as she described her incredible denial of the obvious need to treat the heart condition she was born with. I was amused a... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069473 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 16:00:14 +0100 5069473 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5050577&cid=t_96254_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fresearch-investigates-a-percutaneous-option-for-aortic-valve-replacement%2F2011.07.21 To ensure rational and responsible dissemination of this new technology (transcatheter aortic valve replacement [TAVR]), government, industry and medicine will need to work in harmony.” - David R. Holmes, Jr., MD, FACC President, American College of Cardiology Today, Edwards Lifesciences’ will request pre-market approval of its SAPIEN Transcatheter Heart Valve from the FDA’s Circulatory Systems Devices Panel of the Medical Devices Advisory Committee. And for the first time, the groundwork for our complicated new era of health care rationing will be exposed. To win an expensive technology on behalf of patients these days, there will have to be “harmony” between doctors and their professional organizations and government regulators. If not, patients lose. At issue is a... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5050577 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 18:00:00 +0100 5050577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5050785&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FcxZMPWN_nU8%2Fmaquet-releases-yuno-otn-advanced-surgical-table.html MAQUET has released a new versatile surgical table that’s future proof, capable of handling patients up to 1,000 pounds.  The unit is mobile and the company believes it can be used in all types of surgeries. The table features metal-free carbon-fiber structural components for radiotranslucency and easily adjustable components for quick and easy OR prep. Features from the product page: State-of-the-art technology: The YUNO OTN’s intelligent modular design makes it ideal for all operations in orthopedics, traumatology and neurosurgery. Its precise settings, impressive stability and exceptional radiotranslucency help surgeons work as accurately as possible. Excellent radiotranslucency: because of the table’s intelligent design and carbon fiber components, you no longer need to re-p... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5050785 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 17:26:28 +0100 5050785 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975980&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FIF0pD2p46TA%2Fbiotroniks-new-single-chamber-icd-detects-atrial-arrhythmias.html BIOTRONIK has launched a new single-chamber implantable cardiac defibrillator and lead system. The Lumax 540 VR-T DX is capable of detecting atrial fibrillation in addition to traditional ventricular rhythm monitoring that other single-chamber ICD’s perform.  This is done thanks to the new Linoxsmart S DX ICD leads that feature a floating atrial dipole (side image) that can sense electrical activity in the atrium.  Like other BIOTRONIK implants, the new device is supported by the company’s HOME MONITORING system that will communicate any adverse events or detected conditions (like AF) straight to the physician. More details about the new system from the press release: Signals coming from the atrial chambers of a patient’s heart can now be sensed by the floating atrial dipol... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975980 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 18:10:24 +0100 4975980 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968627&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FlQoftuok6og%2Fst-jude%25e2%2580%2599s-unify-crt-d-and-fortify-st-icd-make-their-way-to-japan.html St. Jude Medical’s Unify cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-D) and Fortify ST implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD), which were FDA approved and CE Marked last year, have now been cleared for distribution in Japan. The Unify and Fortify are the smallest CRT-D and ICD on the market, which allows surgeons to use smaller incisions during implantation. The devices can also deliver more energy than existing options, and use SJM’s proprietary algorithms to monitor patients and reduce the likelihood of unnecessary shocks. From the announcement: The Unify CRT-D and Fortify ST ICD feature advanced battery technology and circuitry that allow for a smaller device, with more energy capacity and rapid charge times, all while increasing device longevity. The energy capabilit... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968627 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 15:37:04 +0100 4968627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911602&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FI9LJFq3KeO4%2Fst-judes-portico-transcatheter-aortic-valve-implanted-in-human-exclusive-pics.html St. Jude Medical has just announced the first successful human implantation of the company’s Portico transcatheter aortic heart valve in a patient with aortic stenosis. The procedure was performed by Dr. John Webb, director of cardiac catheterization and interventional cardiology at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, British Columbia. We hear that St.Jude is working hard to make sure the device is safe and secure, so things like perivalvular leaks and valve displacements do not happen during or after implantation. Furthermore, the company is looking into ways to develop both transapical and transfemoral deliveries for the valve. And, in addition, the device, when it is finally approved, might feature the company’s proprietary Linx anticalcification technology that might ac... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911602 Wed, 08 Jun 2011 20:11:14 +0100 4911602 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911604&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FqPD5_5WX2V0%2Fact%25e2%2580%2599s-tempasure-for-atrial-arrhythmias-wins-european-approval.html Advanced Cardiac Therapeutics, Inc. has received the European CE Mark for its TEMPASURE cardiac ablation catheter.  The device is capable of measuring local temperature of the treatment area, helping prevent overheating, while delivering saline irrigation. The TEMPASURE system is designed to result in better outcomes for patients by reducing overall procedure time and increasing therapeutic effectiveness, while avoiding rare but serious adverse events that can occur with current technologies. The system’s novel passive sensing microwave radiometry technology allows the electrophysiologist to measure the temperature of cardiac tissue during the ablation procedure, providing real-time information that enables proper energy delivery and lesion control. This technology ... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911604 Wed, 08 Jun 2011 17:06:38 +0100 4911604 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893598&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2Fz6rwckEHX_4%2Fbiotroniks-orsiro-hybrid-des-performs-well-in-human-trial.html The objective of the study was to assess the safety and clinical performance of the Orsiro Hybrid DES as measured by freedom from major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and in-stent late lumen loss at 9 months, evaluated by quantitative coronary angiography (QCA). At 9 months, the results for the primary endpoint in-stent late lumen loss were 0.05 ±0.22 mm. Two patients were symptomatic at 9 months, resulting in two cases of clinically driven target vessel revascularization (TVR) (6.7%). Clinical follow-up will continue annually out to at least 3 years. Orsiro demonstrated sustained safety out to 9 months, as indicated by absence of death, stent thrombosis and myocardial infarction (MI). Press release: Industry’s First Hybrid Drug-Eluting Stent from BIOTRONIK demonstrates Safety and Effic... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893598 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 19:16:36 +0100 4893598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4852966&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2Fwd_thfYqZpg%2Fmaquet-cardioroot-aortic-graft-gets-u-s-green-light.html MAQUET Cardiovascular has received FDA 510(k) clearance for the CARDIOROOT aortic root graft.  The single piece device is designed to repair or replace diseased or damaged ascending aorta. More about device from MAQUET: The unique design of CARDIOROOT mimics the anatomy of the patient’s native aortic root, including the clinically important natural sinuses of valsalva, which supply blood to the heart’s own arteries. CARDIOROOT’s anatomically correct shape allows easy sewing of valve remnants or a prosthetic valve within the tube, thereby avoiding potential bleeding while shortening surgical procedure time. Anatomically correct shape Unique uncrimped section that does not stretch: Allows easy sewing of valve remnants, or prosthetic valve within the tube, avoiding potenti... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4852966 Mon, 23 May 2011 17:31:21 +0100 4852966 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4848019&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2F8UVttgaOvhE%2Fsubclavian-approach-proves-successful-in-implanting-medtronic%25e2%2580%2599s-corevalve-system.html We’ve reported on Medtronic’s alternative subclavian approach for installing its CoreValve System in the past, and now the company has announced a new study which further demonstrates the procedure’s safety and efficacy. The CoreValve system allows for replacement of a stenosed aortic valve via a catheter, without the need for open heart surgery. The procedure was CE marked last December, making CoreValve the only transcatheter aortic valve implantation system approved for use via subclavian approach. From the press release: The multi-center study evaluated 132 consecutive subclavian patients in Italy and found positive patient outcomes, despite patients in the subclavian group being sicker than patients in the femoral access group (based on EuroSCORE and rates of peripheral arte... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4848019 Fri, 20 May 2011 15:59:46 +0100 4848019 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4841649&cid=t_96254_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2Ftqzx-reSE0I%2Fwatching-the-watchman-again.html We last reported on the Watchman left atrial appendage device back  in 2009.  Since then, Minnesota based AtriTech has been acquired by Boston Scientific, and there is new data about its use as an alternative to warfarin. To review,  the Watchman is a device that is placed in the left atrium to exclude the left atrial appendage, where a thrombus is likely to form in a patient with atrial fibrillation, thus reducing the potential for a stroke.  The device is implanted in the cath lab with conscious sedation (see animation). Previous studies have confirmed the non-inferiority of this device to warfrain, and the latest data shows its utility in patients who have contraindications to warfarin.  Twenty-four of these patients were implanted with the Watchman device and received aspirin a... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4841649 Wed, 18 May 2011 19:26:37 +0100 4841649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4747936&cid=t_96254_82_f&fid=34667&url=http%3A%2F%2Flaryngoscope.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F04%2Fsurgical-plan.html The cardiac surgeon today announced the plan for today's cardiac case:Out of the room by noon, without a balloon (Referring to the Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump - a device inserted through the femoral artery into the descending thoracic aorta, used to augment cardiac output and help a person with poor heart function come off of the cardiopulmonary bypass pump) (Source: i'm so sleepy) i'm so sleepy blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4747936 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 16:39:00 +0100 4747936 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3767075&cid=t_96254_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fcleveland-clinic-targets-the-heart-of-chicago%2F2010.07.19 All I can say is, best of luck. From the Chicago Tribune: In a move likely to shake up the market for heart care in the Chicago area, the well-known Cleveland Clinic’s cardiac surgery program said Thursday that it has signed an affiliation agreement with Central DuPage Hospital in the western Chicago suburbs. The internationally known Cleveland Clinic draws patients from more than 85 countries around the world for everything from open-heart surgery and valve replacement to heart transplants. Its deal with Central DuPage, in Winfield, is designed to enhance the heart care provided at the 313-bed community hospital and potentially bring Cleveland Clinic patient referrals at a time heart surgeries are less needed than they were a decade ago. This won’t shake up the market in Chicago. ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3767075 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 20:00:00 +0100 3767075 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3721703&cid=t_96254_83_f&fid=34856&url=http%3A%2F%2Finsidesurgery.com%2F2010%2F07%2Fvideo-robotic-assisted-mitral-valve-surgery%2F Video and discussion of robotic assisted mitral valve surgery for mitral valve prolapse (Source: Inside Surgery) Inside Surgery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3721703 Sat, 03 Jul 2010 03:48:57 +0100 3721703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3432875&cid=t_96254_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2Ft8RF0ckq3_A%2F By Santi Bhagat, MD, MPH. Health Care Reform is off to a good start.  A couple of days ago, I blogged on the debate between the insurance industry and the administration about the interpretation of this new law.  Hats off to insurers for making the right choice, right away, to heed regulations that are forthcoming from Health and Human Services.   I first heard this through the grapevine at the Disruptive Women Breakfast Series this week from Stephanie Cohen, the expert panelist representing the insurance industry. The law is intended to require insurers to issue policies that provide a full range of benefits for all children with pre-existing conditions starting in September 2010.  That means insurers can no longer refuse to cover children with pre-existing conditions under their par... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3432875 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 12:07:29 +0100 3432875 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3262606&cid=t_96254_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2Fu_-MtRoFi4o%2F One-third of Americans say they have received tests, treatment or medications they didn’t need, according to a survey conducted for the Commonwealth Fund of New York.  Are you one of them? Think about it.  We live in a market-driven economy where businesses thrive on getting us to consume more than we need, whether it’s a house that’s too big, a mortgage that’s unaffordable, or an investment that promises more than it can deliver.  Market-driven health care is motivated by the same imperative.  In our highly-caffeinated health care system, the mantra is volume, volume, volume.  That ‘volume’ is you and me, and the people we love. Here’s a story about a colleague, a research scientist, who has a heart condition that she watches very carefully. ... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3262606 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 13:21:46 +0100 3262606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2367386&cid=t_96254_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2009%2F04%2F15%2Fthoracoscopic-epicardial-radiofrequency-ablation-for-atrial-fibrillation%2F Title: Thoracoscopic epicardial radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation Source: NICE The Skinny: Guidance to the NHS in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland on thoracoscopic epicardial radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation.  Atrial fibrillation is a condition that affects the heart, causing an irregular pulse. It occurs when the electrical impulses controlling the heartbeat become disorganised, so that the heart beats irregularly and too fast. When this happens, the heart cannot efficiently pump blood around the body. This may cause symptoms such as palpitations, chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, dizziness and fainting. Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of blood clots and stroke. In thoracoscopic epicardial radiofrequency ablation, selected are... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2367386 Wed, 15 Apr 2009 09:21:31 +0100 2367386 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2046826&cid=t_96254_87_f&fid=34935&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedicine.com.my%2Fwp%2F%3Fp%3D5626 The EdgeDaily reports Sime Darby Bhd has expressed interest in taking over the National Heart Institute, or Institut Jantung Negara (IJN), a move that has met with objections from the ministry of health, sources said. It is learnt that the ministry of finance (MoF), which owns IJN, has submitted a proposal for the privatisation of the hospital to the cabinet. Health industry officials are not surprised by the MoF’s move as the ministry had sent out feelers to government-linked companies to gauge the interest in such an exercise. Sources said that both Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai and his deputy Datuk Dr Abdul Latiff Ahmad do not agree to the proposed divestment. “They do not agree to this sale unless there is a safety net for the poor and the underprivileged. Their needs ... Malaysian Medical Resources blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2046826 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2046826 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1321813&cid=t_96254_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F256234913%2F So you have done everything on your checklist prior to your open heart surgery. Pre-op physical… check… labs… check… packed the bag… check… donated your blood… check- but this is where the question comes into play. A new US study found that cardiac surgery patients who received blood transfusions of blood that had been stored for 2 weeks or less had lower rates of complications and death than those who received blood that was older. Were you instructed on when to donate? Did the nurse or case manager that prepared you for surgery advise you that the fresher your blood the better? Why would this be the case you ask? Older blood loses nitric oxide, an important agent in the delivery of oxygen to tissue cells. Another reason is that red blood cells b... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1321813 Sat, 22 Mar 2008 22:32:43 +0100 1321813 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1250167&cid=t_96254_83_f&fid=34856&url=http%3A%2F%2Finsidesurgery.com%2Findex.php%3Fitemid%3D570 Surgical coronay artery revascularization (aka CABG or ACB) is a commonly performed procedure in the United States. The development of The Society of Thoracic Surgeons database has provided a detailed analysis of the morbidity and mortality associated with this procedure and the risk stratification models. The STS database for 1997-2000 calculates the incidence of 30 day mortality at 2.61%. To decrease some of the complications listed below, many CABG procedures are now done "off pump" or without stopping the heart and cross-clamping the aorta. Complications Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation - The incidence of patients requiring mechanical ventilation for longer than 48 hours is 5.79%. Copyright 2008 InsideSurgery.com® (Source: Inside Surgery) Inside Surgery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1250167 Fri, 22 Feb 2008 14:53:23 +0100 1250167 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1076822&cid=t_96254_134_f&fid=36049&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FDiabetesNotes%2F%7E3%2F196437283%2F We all know that daily exercise is a part of a healthy cardiac lifestyle as well as diabetes lifestyle. I mentioned this over on my Hearty Life site as well. I really think it is a very cool concept! We also know that it is tough to aways make time for our very needed exercise and we tend to fall into the “rut” that is associated with these all to common happenings. Hey, we are not perfect, right? I do have some fun news to share with you. How many are familiar with Nintendo’s Wii? If you don’t have one in your house presently, good luck on making a reasonable bid as they are in high demand. Getting back to my point, Wii is now being prescribed as part of physical therapy for stroke patients and cardiac surgery patients and for general energy and exercise. Heck… it is the bomb fo... Diabetes Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1076822 Fri, 07 Dec 2007 03:30:27 +0100 1076822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1076620&cid=t_96254_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F196429944%2F We all know that daily exercise is a part of a healthy cardiac lifestyle. We also know that it is tough to aways make time for our very needed exercise and we tend to fall into the “rut” that is associated with these all to common happenings. Hey, we are not perfect, right? I do have some fun news to share with you. How many are familiar with Nintendo’s Wii? If you don’t have one in your house presently, good luck on making a reasonable bid as they are in high demand. Getting back to my point, Wii is now being prescribed as part of physical therapy for stroke patients and cardiac surgery patients. Heck… it is the bomb for anyone that wants a fun, exciting workout! Robbie Winget, an occupational therapist who oversees use of the Wii at Dodd Hall, said news that... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1076620 Fri, 07 Dec 2007 03:08:11 +0100 1076620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1019098&cid=t_96254_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F11%2F11%2Fa-salute-to-dr-arthur-agatson-bill-bestermann.html Nearly 10 years have passed since I first began to see articles from leading vascular scientists like Drs. Erling Falk and Peter Libby that told us that bypass surgery and angioplasty did not prevent heart attacks in stable patients.  These innovators helped us to understand that aggressive medical therapy was the most powerful intervention to prevent myocardial infarction.  Very soon after that I changed my practice from general internal medicine to what has become a focused practice of vascular medicine.  For 10 years now, I have been treating vascular disease with lifestyle change and medical therapy.Almost as soon as the South Beach diet came out, I was impressed that it was a more sensible approach to weight loss.  The very low fat diet that was popular at that tim... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1019098 Sun, 11 Nov 2007 12:40:08 +0100 1019098 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=918091&cid=t_96254_111_f&fid=36048&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAHeartyLife%2F%7E3%2F163809143%2F Hmm… I will present this to you with no opinion or comments from me. It seems that researchers out of The Bristol Heart Institute in Britain have confirmed the belief that certain patients that have survived heart attacks and heart disease become more naturally pre-conditioned than their healthy counterparts. … Discovered surprising responses of the heart to mock cardiac surgery in a mouse model. When the heart was stopped and restarted — mimicking the conditions used in most heart bypass surgery — scientists found hearts with coronary disease from genetically modified mice were more resistant to damage than hearts without coronary disease. So what do you think? Have you ever heard of this before? The research team detailed their findings in the October issue of th... A Hearty Life blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=918091 Mon, 01 Oct 2007 17:39:59 +0100 918091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=819514&cid=t_96254_83_f&fid=34856&url=http%3A%2F%2Finsidesurgery.com%2Findex.php%3Fitemid%3D473 Complications Persistent Mitral Regurgitation - this is not an uncommon occurence after repair of the mitral valve for regurgitation. The most common cause is the failure of the leaflets to coapt in the left ventricular space. If severe enough, it requires reoperation for an attempt at re-repair or mitral valve replacement. Persistent mitral regurgitation can also occur after operation for mital stenosis if there is an excessive commissurotomy. Persistent Mitral Stenosis - this is not an uncommon occurrence after repair of the mitral valve for stenosis. It is diagnosed usually in the immediate post-operative period by a low cardiac output, a high left atrial pressure, or by transesophageal echocardiogram. Most typically, a full valve mitral valve replacement is performed. Obstruction ... Inside Surgery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=819514 Fri, 24 Aug 2007 08:28:00 +0100 819514 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=780658&cid=t_96254_83_f&fid=34856&url=http%3A%2F%2Finsidesurgery.com%2Findex.php%3Fitemid%3D456 Complications Left circumflex coronary artery injury - this arterial branch off the left main coronary artery runs in the atrioventricular groove. It can be injured if the sutures used during the valve replacement are placed too far radially, particularly on the left lateral edge of the annulus. If a suture is placed through this artery, it is sometimes recognized immediately by bleeding from the posterior heart. It can also present with poor left ventricular wall motion on intraoperative echocardiogram, decreased cardiac output or ischemic changes on ECG in V5 and V6. Correction of this error involves removing the stitch and sometimes a saphenous vein graft to bypass the injured area. Perivalvular leak - this condition can occur either early or late. It presents as mitral regurgitatio... Inside Surgery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=780658 Sun, 05 Aug 2007 22:55:47 +0100 780658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=726222&cid=t_96254_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F7%2F11%2Fwhat-medicine-can-learn-from-the-progress-in-military-strate.html By William Bestermann MDMany professionals in positions of leadership today were educated in the 60s, opposed the Vietnam War, and viewed military intelligence as an oxymoron. But my oldest son, a West Point graduate, has taught me lessons that have changed my life and are relevant to the major conundrum facing medical practice today.West Point places a primary stress on technical adaptation.  These young cadets are taught “Tactics Lag Technology.”  That is to say if the officer applies tactics appropriate to the last war in the face of more deadly weaponry in the current war, he will likely be responsible for the deaths of hundreds if not thousands of his personal friends, team mates, and countrymen.  Military officers, in their movement upward in rank and respo... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=726222 Wed, 11 Jul 2007 01:43:43 +0100 726222 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=682486&cid=t_96254_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F6%2F19%2Fwise-up-when-is-comes-to-heart-disease-women-are-different-f.html This is Dr. Bill Bestermann's first post as one of the TDWI writers (A Big Welcome, Bill!).   Dr. Bestermann makes it clear that there is a long way to go, baby, before the diagnosis and treatment of heart disease in women gets to where it should be...hey! ladies, let's WISE up!  Here you go: The evidence has become irrefutable that life-style change and medications aimed at vascular risk factors outperform bypass surgery and stenting in prevention of heart attack. Not only that, but non-invasive strategies have positive benefits on the entire vasculature that prevent stroke, nerve damage, eye damage, kidney damage and amputation. Women are different These differences may be even more important for females. For some time now, there has been discussion of women being di... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=682486 Tue, 19 Jun 2007 19:07:41 +0100 682486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=474152&cid=t_96254_117_f&fid=34612&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thedoctorweighsin.com%2Fjournal%2F2007%2F3%2F14%2Fsupply-driven-demand-for-cardiac-procedures.html Remember how shocked we were when we first heard about Dr. Moon and Dr. Realyvasquez. These are the heart doctors who performed unnecessary cardiac procedures, including coronary artery bypass surgeries, at a Tenet Hospital in Redding, California. These guys may have been at the far end of the spectrum when it comes to driving inappropriate cardiac care, however, a study in the March 7, 2007 issue of JAMA adds to the growing body of evidence that suggests that cardiac procedure rates are strongly influenced by competitive market dynamics and not just patient need.A group of well-respected health services researchers, led by Brahmajee Nallamothu at the University of Michigan Medical School took a careful look at the impact of introduction of specialty heart hospitals in geographic area... The Doctor Weighs In blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=474152 Thu, 15 Mar 2007 01:20:11 +0100 474152