Abstract As the indications for these devices has widened, the prevalence of permanent pacemakers (PPMs) and ICDs has increased. The complexity of these devices makes them susceptible to perioperative interference…
Abstract Pulmonary vascular surgery comprises emergency procedures such as pulmonary embolectomy and post-traumatic repair, and elective procedures such as palliation of PHT, pulmonary thromboendarterectomy (PTE), tumour resection and the Ross…
Abstract Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) can be used in a setting of either acute or chronic heart failure in selected patients refractory to medical management, to augment the failing circulation…
Abstract Thoracic aortic disease is often difficult to detect and may remain asymptomatic until presenting acutely, which in turn is associated with high rates of complications, morbidity and mortality. This…
Abstract The first successful human-to-human heart transplant was performed by Christiaan Barnard in 1967 but the initial outcomes were poor. The introduction of ciclosporin resulted in a significant improvement in…
Abstract Cardiomyopathy is a disease spectrum that alters the shape, function and conduction of cardiac muscle. Affecting 1 in 500 people it is often incurable; however, symptom control can improve…
Abstract TS is defined as a fixed obstruction to RV filling due to TV orifice narrowing. It is most commonly of rheumatic origin, and often combined with regurgitation. Rheumatic TS…
Abstract Cardiac surgery is a major insult to homeostasis. Attempts have been made to reduce the inflammatory response to cardiac surgery by limiting the stimulus. The two biggest stimuli to…
Abstract A comprehensive review of the complications of cardiac surgery would fill an entire volume. This chapter covers the more common and life-threatening complications. The reader is directed to the…
Abstract The normal adult MV area is 4–6 cm2. Unlike other heart valves, the MV consists of two asymmetric leaflets. The aortic (anterior) leaflet makes up 65% of the valve…
