Background:Closure of an atrial septal defect(ASD)reduces right-side heart volumes by abolishing shunting with simultaneous improvement of the left ventricle(LV)filling and functions due to ventricular interdependence,...Background:Closure of an atrial septal defect(ASD)reduces right-side heart volumes by abolishing shunting with simultaneous improvement of the left ventricle(LV)filling and functions due to ventricular interdependence,thereby improving symptoms.Furthermore,studies conducted on atrial volume changes after ASD closure are limited.Cardiac magnetic resonance(CMR)is considered as the gold standard method for measuring cardiac volume and mass.Objective:We aimed to study the effect of transcatheter and surgical closure of secundum ASD on cardiac volumes and systolic functions as well as the fate of tricuspid regurgitation(TR),using CMR analysis.Methods:We prospectively enrolled 30 adult patients with isolated secundum ASD who were referred to ASD closure.CMR evaluation of cardiac chambers indexed volumes,systolic function,myocardial mass index,and tricuspid regurgitant fraction were done at before and 6 months after closure.Results:RV volumes decreased in both groups when compared to baseline(p-value 0.001),the device group had more reduction in volumes and more improvement in RV function after closure(p-value 0.001)when compared to the surgical arm.The changes in the RV mass index were insignificant between both groups(p-value 0.31).Functional TR improved to the same extent in both groups.Left ventricular end diastolic volume index(LVEDVI)and LV mass index increased sig-nificantly in both groups when compared to baseline in both groups but with no difference between groups p-value 0.01),left ventricular end systolic volume index(LVESVI)changes were insignificant.LV systolic function improved in patients who underwent device closure only(63.53±3.85 vs.67.13±4.34,p-value 0.01).There was a significant reduction in right atrial(RA)volumes and an insignificant decrease in left atrial(LA)volumes,with no difference between groups.Conclusion:Transcatheter and surgical secundum ASD closure resulted in volumetric changes in some cardiac chambers with better improvement in bi-ventricular systolic function in the transcatheter arm and no difference in the TR reduction between the two groups at 6 months follow-up by CMR.展开更多
Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) remain a challenging medical problem, especially in cardiac surgery patients. There is a lack of studies evaluating the rate of and outcomes of SSIs following cardiac surger...Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) remain a challenging medical problem, especially in cardiac surgery patients. There is a lack of studies evaluating the rate of and outcomes of SSIs following cardiac surgeries in Saudi Arabia. Aims: This study aimed to determine the incidence of SSIs after adult cardiac surgeries that were done in Madinah Cardiac Center, Saudi Arabia. Further, to identify the outcomes and risk factors contributing to death among surgical site infection patients. Methods: This was a 6-year, single-center, retrospective cohort study that included 93 consecutive patients who underwent adult cardiac surgery between August 2016 and August 2022. All adult patients aged 18 years or older who had clinical evidence of postoperative surgical wound infection were included. Preoperative, operative, and postoperative data (early and late) were collected from medical records. Microbiological culture reports and clinical outcomes were also recorded. Results: The study revealed a 9.1% (93/1021) incidence rate of SSIs. Of the 93 patients with SSIs, 60 had superficial incisional infections and 33 had deep infections with incidence rates of 5.9% and 3.2%, respectively. In-hospital mortality due to SSI was recorded in 4 out of 93 patients with an incidence rate of 4.3%. There was a significant association between the in-hospital mortality and the type of SSIs (p = 0.014). All non-survivors had deep SSIs. The type of cardiac surgery also showed a significant association with the in-hospital mortality (p = 0.017). Furthermore, the median duration of antibiotic administration was significantly longer in the non-survivors than in the survivors (72.5 vs 17, respectively, p Conclusions: In conclusion, the incidence of surgical wound infections following cardiac surgery is not low (9.1%);of which 3.2% were deep infections. The in-hospital mortality rate after treatment of SSIs was fortunately low (4.3%), and all non-survivors had deep SSIs. The non- survivors showed a significantly longer duration of antibiotics administration than survivors. Combined CABG and valve procedures showed a higher mortality rate (75%) than the isolated procedures.展开更多
Background: Risk stratification of long-term outcomes for patients undergoing Coronary artery bypass grafting has enormous potential clinical importance. Aim: To develop risk stratification models for predicting long-...Background: Risk stratification of long-term outcomes for patients undergoing Coronary artery bypass grafting has enormous potential clinical importance. Aim: To develop risk stratification models for predicting long-term outcomes following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Methods: We retrospectively revised the electronic medical records of 2330 patients who underwent adult Cardiac surgery between August 2016 and December 2022 at Madinah Cardiac Center, Saudi Arabia. Three hundred patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria of CABG operations with a complete follow-up period of at least 24 months, and data reporting. The collected data included patient demographics, comorbidities, laboratory data, pharmacotherapy, echocardiographic parameters, procedural details, postoperative data, in-hospital outcomes, and follow-up data. Our follow-up was depending on the clinical status (NYHA class), chest pain recurrence, medication dependence and echo follow-up. A univariate analysis was performed between each patient risk factor and the long-term outcome to determine the preoperative, operative, and postoperative factors significantly associated with each long-term outcome. Then a multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed with a stepwise, forward selection procedure. Significant (p < 0.05) risk factors were identified and were used as candidate variables in the development of a multivariable risk prediction model. Results: The incidence of all-cause mortality during hospital admission or follow-up period was 2.3%. Other long-term outcomes included all-cause recurrent hospitalization (9.8%), recurrent chest pain (2.4%), and the need for revascularization by using a stent in 5 (3.0%) patients. Thirteen (4.4%) patients suffered heart failure and they were on the maximum anti-failure medications. The model for predicting all-cause mortality included the preoperative EF ≤ 35% (AOR: 30.757, p = 0.061), the bypass time (AOR: 1.029, p = 0.003), and the duration of ventilation following the operation (AOR: 1.237, p = 0.021). The model for risk stratification of recurrent hospitalization comprised the preoperative EF ≤ 35% (AOR: 6.198, p p = 0.023), low postoperative cardiac output (AOR: 3.622, p = 0.007), and the development of postoperative atrial fibrillation (AOR: 2.787, p = 0.038). Low postoperative cardiac output was the only predictor that significantly contributed to recurrent chest pain (AOR: 11.66, p = 0.004). Finally, the model consisted of low postoperative cardiac output (AOR: 5.976, p < 0.001) and postoperative ventricular fibrillation (AOR: 4.216, p = 0.019) was significantly associated with an increased likelihood of the future need for revascularization using a stent. Conclusions: A risk prediction model was developed in a Saudi cohort for predicting all-cause mortality risk during both hospital admission and the follow-up period of at least 24 months after isolated CABG surgery. A set of models were also developed for predicting long-term risks of all-cause recurrent hospitalization, recurrent chest pain, heart failure, and the need for revascularization by using stents.展开更多
Introduction:We sought to investigate whether the development of sub-pulmonic systolic anterior motion(SAM)may be inherent to the anatomy of the the mitral valve(MV)or affected by external factors,such as a dilated ri...Introduction:We sought to investigate whether the development of sub-pulmonic systolic anterior motion(SAM)may be inherent to the anatomy of the the mitral valve(MV)or affected by external factors,such as a dilated right ventricle or chest abnormalities in d-looped transposition of the great arteries post atrial switch operation(d-TGA/AtS).Methods:Analysis was performed of clinical and cardiac imaging studies acquired on 19 adult patients with d-TGA/AtS(age 42±6 years old,56%male)between 2015–2019.Echocardiography data included mitral apparatus anatomy,and CT/MRI data included biventricular dimensions,function,and Haller index(HI)for pectus deformity.Results:Patients with leaflet SAM(n=6)compared to patients without SAM(n=13)had higher MV protrusion height(2.3±0.5 vs.1.5±0.4 cm,p≤0.01)and longer anterior MV leaflet length(3.1±0.4 cm vs.2.6±0.3 cm p≤0.05),when compared to those without.CT/MRI showed higher sub-pulmonic left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF)in the SAM group(71%±8%vs.54%±7%,respectively).RV size and function,significant chest deformity(HI>3.5),presence of a ventricular lead pacemaker,and septal thickness did not play a role in development of SAM.Conclusions:An elongated mitral apparatus is associated with the development of SAM,and the development of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction(LVOTO),in d-TGA/AtS.LV hyperkinesia is associated with SAM.Systemic RV dimensions,septal thickness,and degree of chest deformity did not differ significantly between subjects with SAM and those without.展开更多
Chronic kidney disease and its worsening are recurring conditions in chronic heart failure(CHF) which are independently associated with poor patient outcome.The heart and kidney share many pathophysiological mechanism...Chronic kidney disease and its worsening are recurring conditions in chronic heart failure(CHF) which are independently associated with poor patient outcome.The heart and kidney share many pathophysiological mechanisms which can determine dysfunction in each organ. Cardiorenal syndrome is the condition in which these two organs negatively affect each other, therefore an accurate evaluation of renal function in the clinical setting of CHF is essential. This review aims to revise the parameters currently used to evaluate renal dysfunction in CHF with particular reference to the usefulness and the limitations of biomarkers in evaluating glomerular dysfunction and tubular damage. Moreover, it is reported the possible utility of renal arterial resistance index(a parameter associated with abnormalities in renal vascular bed) for a better assesment of kidney disfunction.展开更多
Malignant ventricular arrhythmias are a major adverse event and worsen the prognosis of patients affected by ischemic and non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy.The main parameter currently used to stratify arrhythmic ri...Malignant ventricular arrhythmias are a major adverse event and worsen the prognosis of patients affected by ischemic and non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy.The main parameter currently used to stratify arrhythmic risk and guide decision making towards the implantation of a cardioverter defibrillator is the evaluation of the left ventricular ejection fraction.However,this strategy is characterized by several limitations and consequently additional parameters have been suggested in order to improve arrhythmic risk stratification.The aim of this review is to critically revise the prognostic significance of non-invasive diagnostic tools in order to better stratify the arrhythmic risk prognosis of dilated cardiomyopathy patients.展开更多
BACKGROUND Small pulmonary nodules are tissue shadows and thoracoscopic segmentectomy in China is still at the exploratory stage with limited application.AIM To evaluate the efficacy of thoracoscopic anatomical segmen...BACKGROUND Small pulmonary nodules are tissue shadows and thoracoscopic segmentectomy in China is still at the exploratory stage with limited application.AIM To evaluate the efficacy of thoracoscopic anatomical segmentectomy for small pulmonary nodules.METHODS Medical records of 86 patients with small pulmonary nodules treated at our hospital between August 2016 and October 2019 were retrospectively analyzed;40 cases who underwent thoracoscopic lobectomy were set as a reference group,and 46 cases who underwent thoracoscopic anatomical segmentectomy were set as an observation group.Preoperative and postoperative parameters were measured in both groups,including the percentage of forced expiratory volume in the first second(FEV1%),the percentage of forced vital capacity(FVC%),and the FEV1/FVC ratio(FEV1/FVC).Patients with positive pathological diagnosis received tests for neuron-specific enolase,carbohydrate antigen 125(CA125),CA19-9,and squamous cell carcinoma antigen.Intraoperative bleeding volume,drainage volume,the number of dissected lymph nodes,drainage time,hospital stay,treatment cost,postoperative complications,and postoperative pain condition were compared between the two groups.RESULTS No significant difference was observed in the results of four serum tumor marker(CA125,CA19-9,squamous cell carcinoma antigen,and neuron-specific enolase),the number of dissected lymph nodes,treatment cost,or preoperative pulmonary ventilation index between the two groups.Intraoperative bleeding volume,drainage volume,drainage time,hospital stay,and visual analogue scale score were significantly lower in the observation group(P<0.05).The results of FEV1%,FVC%,and FEV1/FVC were significantly higher in the observation group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION The efficacy of thoracoscopic anatomical segmentectomy and lobectomy for small pulmonary nodules shows no significant difference in terms of lesion removal,but anatomical segmentectomy is less invasive with fewer postoperative complications and less influence on lung function.展开更多
In the new era of functional magnetic resonance imaging(MRI), the utility of chest MRI is increasing exponentially due to several advances, including absence of ionizing radiation, excellent tissue contrast and high c...In the new era of functional magnetic resonance imaging(MRI), the utility of chest MRI is increasing exponentially due to several advances, including absence of ionizing radiation, excellent tissue contrast and high capability for lesion characterization and treatment monitoring. The application of several of these diagnostic weapons in a multiparametric fashion enables to better characterize thymic epithelial tumors and other mediastinal tumoral lesions, accurate assessment of the invasion of adjacent structures and detection of pathologic lymph nodes and metastasis. Also, "do not touch lesions" could be identified with the associated impact in the management of those patients. One of the hotspots of the multiparametric chest MR is its ability to detect with acuity early response to treatment in patients with mediastinal malignant neoplasms. This has been related with higher rates of overall survival and progression free survival.Therefore, in this review we will analyze the current functional imaging techniques available(18 F-Fluorodeoxiglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography, diffusion-weighted imaging, dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI, diffusion tensor imaging and MR spectroscopy) for the evaluation of mediastinal lesions, with a focus in their correct acquisition and post-processing. Also, to review the clinical applications of these techniques in the diagnostic approach of benign and malignant conditions of the mediastinum.展开更多
Acute heart failure is a leading cause of hospitalization and death,and it is an increasing burden on health care systems. The correct risk stratification of patients could improve clinical outcome and resources alloc...Acute heart failure is a leading cause of hospitalization and death,and it is an increasing burden on health care systems. The correct risk stratification of patients could improve clinical outcome and resources allocation,avoiding the overtreatment of low-risk subjects or the early,inappropriate discharge of high-risk patients. Many clinical scores have been derived and validated for in-hospital and post-discharge survival; predictive models include demographic,clinical,hemodynamic and laboratory variables. Data sets are derived from public registries,clinical trials,and retrospective data. Most models show a good capacity to discriminate patients who reach major clinical end-points,with C-indices generally higher than 0.70,but their applicability in realworld populations has been seldom evaluated. No study has evaluated if the use of risk score-based stratification might improve patient outcome. Some variables(age,blood pressure,sodium concentration,renal function) recur in most scores and should always be considered when evaluating the risk of an individual patient hospitalized for acute heart failure. Future studies will evaluate the emerging role of plasma biomarkers.展开更多
Cardiovascular diseases represent the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the western world. Assessment of cardiac function is pivotal for early diag-nosis of primitive myocardial disorders, identification of ...Cardiovascular diseases represent the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the western world. Assessment of cardiac function is pivotal for early diag-nosis of primitive myocardial disorders, identification of cardiac involvement in systemic diseases, detection of drug-related cardiac toxicity as well as risk stratification and monitor of treatment effects in patients with heart failure of various etiology. Determination of ejection fraction with different imaging modalities currently represents the gold standard for evaluation of cardiac function. However, in the last few years, cardiovascular magnetic resonance feature tracking techniques has emerged as a more accurate tool for quantitative evalu-ation of cardiovascular function with several parameters including strain, strain-rate, torsion and mechanical dispersion. This imaging modality allows precise quantification of ventricular and atrial mechanics by directly evaluating myocardial fiber deformation. The purpose of this article is to review the basic principles, current clinical applications and future perspectives of cardiovascular magnetic resonance myocardial feature tracking, highlighting its prognostic implications.展开更多
Aortic size index(ASI) has been proposed as a reliable criterion to predict risk for aortic dissection in Turner syndrome with significant thresholds of 20-25 mm/m2. We report a case of aortic arch dissection in a pat...Aortic size index(ASI) has been proposed as a reliable criterion to predict risk for aortic dissection in Turner syndrome with significant thresholds of 20-25 mm/m2. We report a case of aortic arch dissection in a patient with Turner syndrome who, from the ASI thresholds proposed, was deemed to be at low risk of aortic dis-section or rupture and was not eligible for prophylactic surgery. This case report strongly supports careful monitoring and surgical evaluation even when the ASI is < 20 mm/m2 if other significant risk factors are present.展开更多
Heart failure and kidney disease share common pathophysiological pathways which can lead to mutual dysfunction,known as cardiorenal syndrome.In heart failure patients,renal impairment is related to hemodynamic and non...Heart failure and kidney disease share common pathophysiological pathways which can lead to mutual dysfunction,known as cardiorenal syndrome.In heart failure patients,renal impairment is related to hemodynamic and nonhemodynamic factors.Both decreased renal blood flow and renal venous congestion due to heart failure could lead to impaired renal function.Kidney disease and worsening renal function are independently associated with poor prognosis in heart failure patients,both in acute and chronic clinical settings.The aim of this review is to assess the role of renal imaging modalities in the evaluation and management of heart failure patients.Renal imaging techniques could complete laboratory data,as estimated glomerular filtration rate,exploring different pathophysiological factors involved in kidney disease and adding valuable information about renal structure and function.In particular,Doppler examination of arterial and venous hemodynamics is a feasible and non invasive technique,which has proven to be a reliable method for prognostic stratification in patients with cardiorenal syndrome.The renal resistance index,a measure related to renal hemodynamics,can be calculated from the Doppler evaluation of arterial flow.Moreover,the analysis of Doppler venous flow patterns can integrate information from the arterial study and evaluate renal congestion.Other imaging modalities are promising,but still confined to research purposes.展开更多
Background: The importance of immunotherapy in cancer treatment has been increased owing to its non-toxicity and application to personalized medicine. However, precise estimation indices of immunotherapy have yet to b...Background: The importance of immunotherapy in cancer treatment has been increased owing to its non-toxicity and application to personalized medicine. However, precise estimation indices of immunotherapy have yet to be established. To determine effective evaluation indices of immunotherapy for cancer treatment, we analyzed the CD4/CD8 ratio under various conditions in clinical patients with advanced cancer. Patients and Methods: Thirty-four patients who underwent one course of adoptive activated immunotherapy with or without additional conventional chemotherapy were enrolled. Before and after one course of immunotherapy, changes in the CD4/CD8 ratio were estimated by flow cytometry. Results: All patients showed a tendency toward a decrease in the CD4/CD8 ratio during a 3-month period after one course of adoptive activated T lymphocyte immunotherapy. Patients who had undergone prior surgery showed a remarkable increase in CD8 T cell number. Thus, adoptive activated T lymphocyte immunotherapy improves immunological ability against cancer invasion. The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group’s performance status during one course of immunotherapy was significantly improved in the antecedent surgery group, with no evidence of improved PS in the non-antecedent surgery group. Patients with an increased CD4/CD8 ratio (n = 6) may have a worse outcome during adoptive activated T lymphocyte immunotherapy even with an additional course of immunotherapy. Improved actuarial survival rate of patients in the antecedent surgery group showed significant long-term benefit compared to those in the non-antecedent surgery group (p = 0.0298), as previously reported. Conclusion: The CD4/CD8 ratio is a significant indicator of outcome of adoptive activated T lymphocyte immunotherapy.展开更多
Ischemic mitral regurgitation(IMR) represents a common complication after myocardial infarction. The valve is anatomically normal and the incompetence is the result of papillary muscles displacement and annular dilata...Ischemic mitral regurgitation(IMR) represents a common complication after myocardial infarction. The valve is anatomically normal and the incompetence is the result of papillary muscles displacement and annular dilatation, causing leaflets tethering. Functionally the leaflets present a restricted systolic motion due to tethering forces that displaces the coaptation surface toward the left ventricle apex. The patients present poor left ventricular function at the time of surgery and the severity of the mitral regurgitation increases the risk of mortality. Currently there is general agreement to treat surgically severe IMR nevertheless strong evidences for patient with moderate insufficiency remains poor and proper treatment debated. The most effectivesurgical approach for the treatment of IMR remains debated. Some authors demonstrated that coronary artery bypass graft(CABG) alone is beneficial in patients with IMR. Conversely, in most patients, moderate IMR will persist or worsen after CABG alone which translate in higher long-term mortality as a function of residual mitral regurgitation severity. A probable reason for this unclear surgical management of functional MR is due to the contemporary suboptimal results of reparative techniques. The standard surgical treatment of chronic IMR is CABG associated with undersized annuloplasty using complete ring. Though, the recurrence of mitral regurgitation remains high(】 30%) because of continous left ventricle remodeling. To get better long term results, in the last decade, several subvalvular procedures in adjunct to mitral anuloplasty have been developed. Among them, surgical papillary muscle relocation represents the most appreciated option capable to restore normal left ventricle geometry. In the next future new preoperative predictors of increased mitral regurgitation recurrence are certainly needed to find an individual time period of treatment in each patient with moderate IMR.展开更多
Objective To compare the therapeutic effects and safety of monopolar and bipolar radiofrequency(RF) ablation used during cardiac surgery to treat atrial fibrillation.Methods We retrospectively studied a total of 81 pa...Objective To compare the therapeutic effects and safety of monopolar and bipolar radiofrequency(RF) ablation used during cardiac surgery to treat atrial fibrillation.Methods We retrospectively studied a total of 81 patients with chronic atrial fibrillation who underwent open cardiac surgery with concomitant RF ablation between January 2007 and March 2011.Fifty-eight patients received bipolar RF ablation and 23 received monopolar RF ablation,respectively.The sinus rhythm restoration rate,the procedural duration,the frequency of severe perioperative complications,and mortality were compared between the two groups.Results The sinus rhythm restoration rate did not differ significantly between the two groups after follow-up of 15.1 ± 12.6 months(P=0.199).The frequencies of severe perioperative complications and mortality were also similar in the two groups.The total procedural time using bipolar RF ablation was significantly shorter than that using monopolar ablation(19.7±4.6 minutes vs.28.1±8.5 minutes,P< 0.001).Conclusions Both monopolar and bipolar RF ablation are safe and effective in treating chronic atrial fibrillation patients during open cardiac surgery,but bipolar RF ablation is more convenient in practice.展开更多
Neurosurgeons who perform intracere-bral hemorrhage(ICH)evacuation procedures have lim-ited options for monitoring hematoma evacuation and intraoperatively assessing residual-hematoma burden.In recent years,neuroendos...Neurosurgeons who perform intracere-bral hemorrhage(ICH)evacuation procedures have lim-ited options for monitoring hematoma evacuation and intraoperatively assessing residual-hematoma burden.In recent years,neuroendoscope-assisted,minimally inva-sive surgery for spontaneous ICH is simple and effective and becoming increasingly common.Many methods are applied in neuronavigation-assisted surgery for ICH evac-uation,such as neuroendoscopy,three-dimensional(3D)reconstruction,intraoperative ultrasound,and stereotac-tic craniotomy.Compared with a traditional craniotomy operation,hematoma removal(using methods of accurate localization)can reduce iatrogenic damage,protect white matter,and shorten patients’recovery time.This paper mainly outlines the treatment of basal ganglia-cerebral hemorrhage with neuroendoscopy assistance using local-ization techniques.展开更多
Background:To observe the effect of perioperative acupuncture on postoperative pain in patients undergoing standard sternotomy.Methods:57 patients who received standard median sternotomy were randomly divided into acu...Background:To observe the effect of perioperative acupuncture on postoperative pain in patients undergoing standard sternotomy.Methods:57 patients who received standard median sternotomy were randomly divided into acupuncture group(30 cases)and control group(27 cases).The control group was treated with routine operation and nursing,and the acupuncture group was treated with acupuncture for 10 days on the basis of perioperative period.The pain levels of the two groups before and after operation were compared.Results:The pain level of the acupuncture group was significantly lower than that of the control group on the 2nd,10th,and 30th days after operation(P<0.05),and the short-term pain levels in the two groups were statistically significant(P<0.05).Conclusion:The perioperative acupuncture treatment has a significant analgesic effect on short-term pain for patients undergoing anterior midline thoracotomy,and it is helpful for patients to recover quickly after surgery.展开更多
A 76-year-old Caucasian woman was admitted to the emergency room and referred for cardiac evaluation for dyspnea and abrupt onset of cough three weeks ago. She had a history of well-controlled arterial hypertension an...A 76-year-old Caucasian woman was admitted to the emergency room and referred for cardiac evaluation for dyspnea and abrupt onset of cough three weeks ago. She had a history of well-controlled arterial hypertension and was on adequate oral anticoagulant therapy for permanent atrial fibrillation. Previous thoracic injuries, connective tis- sue disorders or recent infections were excluded. No chest pain or syncope was reported. mmHg in both arms, heart rate Blood pressure was 150/50 was 90 beats/min.展开更多
Septic arthritis of the sternoclavicular joint is a rare and serious infection. A delay in the diagnosis may lead to serious complications. The appropriate medical and surgical treatment is crucial to the outcome. Thi...Septic arthritis of the sternoclavicular joint is a rare and serious infection. A delay in the diagnosis may lead to serious complications. The appropriate medical and surgical treatment is crucial to the outcome. This article aims to report our experience in the successful management of sternoclavicular joint infection complicated with a lung infection. The authors present an unusual case of sternoclavicular joint infection extending into lung parenchyma with lung abscess formation in a diabetic patient, with uncontrolled diabetes that was successfully treated. At revaluation, he was asymptomatic with no evidence of relapse. Although sternoclavicular joint infection is a rare condition we highlight the importance of clinician’s awareness for an early diagnosis and treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics and surgery.展开更多
Objective: This study seeks to evaluate the results of surgery performed according to the etiological causes of diaphragmatic eventration or paralysis. Method: Files of 54 patients (35 males, 19 females;mean age: 39.1...Objective: This study seeks to evaluate the results of surgery performed according to the etiological causes of diaphragmatic eventration or paralysis. Method: Files of 54 patients (35 males, 19 females;mean age: 39.1 ± 3.01 years) who had undergone diaphragm plication between January 2005 and June 2011 in two clinics located in Istanbul were studied in terms of pulmonary spirometry, applied surgical procedure, duration of hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality. Results: In diaphragm plications, observed etiologies were isolated diaphragmatic eventration without phrenic nerve injury (Group 1) in 20 (37%) patients due to blunt thoracic trauma;Group 2 (thymoma in 19 (35.2%) patients;lung cancer in 7 (12.9%) patients;mediastinal tumor in 3 (5.6%) patients) and congenital heart surgery (Group 3) in 5 (9.3%) patients. The mean time to plication was 7.4 months in Group 1. The mean duration of hospitalization was 4 days in Group 1, 6.2 days in Group 2, 11.8 days in Group 3. Mean forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume at 1 second improved by 17%, 20.3%, respectively (p In Group 1, mean dyspnea-related hospital admission before plication was 2.4 times. At the end of 6 months after plication mean dyspnea-related hospital admission was 0 time. All of them returned to daily activities or their job within 6 months in Group 1. Postoperative mortality was observed in 2 (3.7%) patients in Group 3 while the overall complication rates were 24%. The morbidity rates were 8%, 27.5%, 60%, respectively;and the mortality rates were 0%, 0%, 40%, respectively. Conclusion: As a result, it could be suggested that early and timely performed plications for diaphragmatic eventration improves functional status and assesses a shorter lenght of stay. On the other hand,simultaneously performed plications in intraoperative phrenic nerve resections can be performed with acceptable morbidity and no mortality. In diaphragmatic paralysis due to congenital heart surgery, morbidity and mortality rate is still high.展开更多
文摘Background:Closure of an atrial septal defect(ASD)reduces right-side heart volumes by abolishing shunting with simultaneous improvement of the left ventricle(LV)filling and functions due to ventricular interdependence,thereby improving symptoms.Furthermore,studies conducted on atrial volume changes after ASD closure are limited.Cardiac magnetic resonance(CMR)is considered as the gold standard method for measuring cardiac volume and mass.Objective:We aimed to study the effect of transcatheter and surgical closure of secundum ASD on cardiac volumes and systolic functions as well as the fate of tricuspid regurgitation(TR),using CMR analysis.Methods:We prospectively enrolled 30 adult patients with isolated secundum ASD who were referred to ASD closure.CMR evaluation of cardiac chambers indexed volumes,systolic function,myocardial mass index,and tricuspid regurgitant fraction were done at before and 6 months after closure.Results:RV volumes decreased in both groups when compared to baseline(p-value 0.001),the device group had more reduction in volumes and more improvement in RV function after closure(p-value 0.001)when compared to the surgical arm.The changes in the RV mass index were insignificant between both groups(p-value 0.31).Functional TR improved to the same extent in both groups.Left ventricular end diastolic volume index(LVEDVI)and LV mass index increased sig-nificantly in both groups when compared to baseline in both groups but with no difference between groups p-value 0.01),left ventricular end systolic volume index(LVESVI)changes were insignificant.LV systolic function improved in patients who underwent device closure only(63.53±3.85 vs.67.13±4.34,p-value 0.01).There was a significant reduction in right atrial(RA)volumes and an insignificant decrease in left atrial(LA)volumes,with no difference between groups.Conclusion:Transcatheter and surgical secundum ASD closure resulted in volumetric changes in some cardiac chambers with better improvement in bi-ventricular systolic function in the transcatheter arm and no difference in the TR reduction between the two groups at 6 months follow-up by CMR.
文摘Background: Surgical site infections (SSIs) remain a challenging medical problem, especially in cardiac surgery patients. There is a lack of studies evaluating the rate of and outcomes of SSIs following cardiac surgeries in Saudi Arabia. Aims: This study aimed to determine the incidence of SSIs after adult cardiac surgeries that were done in Madinah Cardiac Center, Saudi Arabia. Further, to identify the outcomes and risk factors contributing to death among surgical site infection patients. Methods: This was a 6-year, single-center, retrospective cohort study that included 93 consecutive patients who underwent adult cardiac surgery between August 2016 and August 2022. All adult patients aged 18 years or older who had clinical evidence of postoperative surgical wound infection were included. Preoperative, operative, and postoperative data (early and late) were collected from medical records. Microbiological culture reports and clinical outcomes were also recorded. Results: The study revealed a 9.1% (93/1021) incidence rate of SSIs. Of the 93 patients with SSIs, 60 had superficial incisional infections and 33 had deep infections with incidence rates of 5.9% and 3.2%, respectively. In-hospital mortality due to SSI was recorded in 4 out of 93 patients with an incidence rate of 4.3%. There was a significant association between the in-hospital mortality and the type of SSIs (p = 0.014). All non-survivors had deep SSIs. The type of cardiac surgery also showed a significant association with the in-hospital mortality (p = 0.017). Furthermore, the median duration of antibiotic administration was significantly longer in the non-survivors than in the survivors (72.5 vs 17, respectively, p Conclusions: In conclusion, the incidence of surgical wound infections following cardiac surgery is not low (9.1%);of which 3.2% were deep infections. The in-hospital mortality rate after treatment of SSIs was fortunately low (4.3%), and all non-survivors had deep SSIs. The non- survivors showed a significantly longer duration of antibiotics administration than survivors. Combined CABG and valve procedures showed a higher mortality rate (75%) than the isolated procedures.
文摘Background: Risk stratification of long-term outcomes for patients undergoing Coronary artery bypass grafting has enormous potential clinical importance. Aim: To develop risk stratification models for predicting long-term outcomes following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Methods: We retrospectively revised the electronic medical records of 2330 patients who underwent adult Cardiac surgery between August 2016 and December 2022 at Madinah Cardiac Center, Saudi Arabia. Three hundred patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria of CABG operations with a complete follow-up period of at least 24 months, and data reporting. The collected data included patient demographics, comorbidities, laboratory data, pharmacotherapy, echocardiographic parameters, procedural details, postoperative data, in-hospital outcomes, and follow-up data. Our follow-up was depending on the clinical status (NYHA class), chest pain recurrence, medication dependence and echo follow-up. A univariate analysis was performed between each patient risk factor and the long-term outcome to determine the preoperative, operative, and postoperative factors significantly associated with each long-term outcome. Then a multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed with a stepwise, forward selection procedure. Significant (p < 0.05) risk factors were identified and were used as candidate variables in the development of a multivariable risk prediction model. Results: The incidence of all-cause mortality during hospital admission or follow-up period was 2.3%. Other long-term outcomes included all-cause recurrent hospitalization (9.8%), recurrent chest pain (2.4%), and the need for revascularization by using a stent in 5 (3.0%) patients. Thirteen (4.4%) patients suffered heart failure and they were on the maximum anti-failure medications. The model for predicting all-cause mortality included the preoperative EF ≤ 35% (AOR: 30.757, p = 0.061), the bypass time (AOR: 1.029, p = 0.003), and the duration of ventilation following the operation (AOR: 1.237, p = 0.021). The model for risk stratification of recurrent hospitalization comprised the preoperative EF ≤ 35% (AOR: 6.198, p p = 0.023), low postoperative cardiac output (AOR: 3.622, p = 0.007), and the development of postoperative atrial fibrillation (AOR: 2.787, p = 0.038). Low postoperative cardiac output was the only predictor that significantly contributed to recurrent chest pain (AOR: 11.66, p = 0.004). Finally, the model consisted of low postoperative cardiac output (AOR: 5.976, p < 0.001) and postoperative ventricular fibrillation (AOR: 4.216, p = 0.019) was significantly associated with an increased likelihood of the future need for revascularization using a stent. Conclusions: A risk prediction model was developed in a Saudi cohort for predicting all-cause mortality risk during both hospital admission and the follow-up period of at least 24 months after isolated CABG surgery. A set of models were also developed for predicting long-term risks of all-cause recurrent hospitalization, recurrent chest pain, heart failure, and the need for revascularization by using stents.
文摘Introduction:We sought to investigate whether the development of sub-pulmonic systolic anterior motion(SAM)may be inherent to the anatomy of the the mitral valve(MV)or affected by external factors,such as a dilated right ventricle or chest abnormalities in d-looped transposition of the great arteries post atrial switch operation(d-TGA/AtS).Methods:Analysis was performed of clinical and cardiac imaging studies acquired on 19 adult patients with d-TGA/AtS(age 42±6 years old,56%male)between 2015–2019.Echocardiography data included mitral apparatus anatomy,and CT/MRI data included biventricular dimensions,function,and Haller index(HI)for pectus deformity.Results:Patients with leaflet SAM(n=6)compared to patients without SAM(n=13)had higher MV protrusion height(2.3±0.5 vs.1.5±0.4 cm,p≤0.01)and longer anterior MV leaflet length(3.1±0.4 cm vs.2.6±0.3 cm p≤0.05),when compared to those without.CT/MRI showed higher sub-pulmonic left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF)in the SAM group(71%±8%vs.54%±7%,respectively).RV size and function,significant chest deformity(HI>3.5),presence of a ventricular lead pacemaker,and septal thickness did not play a role in development of SAM.Conclusions:An elongated mitral apparatus is associated with the development of SAM,and the development of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction(LVOTO),in d-TGA/AtS.LV hyperkinesia is associated with SAM.Systemic RV dimensions,septal thickness,and degree of chest deformity did not differ significantly between subjects with SAM and those without.
文摘Chronic kidney disease and its worsening are recurring conditions in chronic heart failure(CHF) which are independently associated with poor patient outcome.The heart and kidney share many pathophysiological mechanisms which can determine dysfunction in each organ. Cardiorenal syndrome is the condition in which these two organs negatively affect each other, therefore an accurate evaluation of renal function in the clinical setting of CHF is essential. This review aims to revise the parameters currently used to evaluate renal dysfunction in CHF with particular reference to the usefulness and the limitations of biomarkers in evaluating glomerular dysfunction and tubular damage. Moreover, it is reported the possible utility of renal arterial resistance index(a parameter associated with abnormalities in renal vascular bed) for a better assesment of kidney disfunction.
文摘Malignant ventricular arrhythmias are a major adverse event and worsen the prognosis of patients affected by ischemic and non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy.The main parameter currently used to stratify arrhythmic risk and guide decision making towards the implantation of a cardioverter defibrillator is the evaluation of the left ventricular ejection fraction.However,this strategy is characterized by several limitations and consequently additional parameters have been suggested in order to improve arrhythmic risk stratification.The aim of this review is to critically revise the prognostic significance of non-invasive diagnostic tools in order to better stratify the arrhythmic risk prognosis of dilated cardiomyopathy patients.
文摘BACKGROUND Small pulmonary nodules are tissue shadows and thoracoscopic segmentectomy in China is still at the exploratory stage with limited application.AIM To evaluate the efficacy of thoracoscopic anatomical segmentectomy for small pulmonary nodules.METHODS Medical records of 86 patients with small pulmonary nodules treated at our hospital between August 2016 and October 2019 were retrospectively analyzed;40 cases who underwent thoracoscopic lobectomy were set as a reference group,and 46 cases who underwent thoracoscopic anatomical segmentectomy were set as an observation group.Preoperative and postoperative parameters were measured in both groups,including the percentage of forced expiratory volume in the first second(FEV1%),the percentage of forced vital capacity(FVC%),and the FEV1/FVC ratio(FEV1/FVC).Patients with positive pathological diagnosis received tests for neuron-specific enolase,carbohydrate antigen 125(CA125),CA19-9,and squamous cell carcinoma antigen.Intraoperative bleeding volume,drainage volume,the number of dissected lymph nodes,drainage time,hospital stay,treatment cost,postoperative complications,and postoperative pain condition were compared between the two groups.RESULTS No significant difference was observed in the results of four serum tumor marker(CA125,CA19-9,squamous cell carcinoma antigen,and neuron-specific enolase),the number of dissected lymph nodes,treatment cost,or preoperative pulmonary ventilation index between the two groups.Intraoperative bleeding volume,drainage volume,drainage time,hospital stay,and visual analogue scale score were significantly lower in the observation group(P<0.05).The results of FEV1%,FVC%,and FEV1/FVC were significantly higher in the observation group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION The efficacy of thoracoscopic anatomical segmentectomy and lobectomy for small pulmonary nodules shows no significant difference in terms of lesion removal,but anatomical segmentectomy is less invasive with fewer postoperative complications and less influence on lung function.
文摘In the new era of functional magnetic resonance imaging(MRI), the utility of chest MRI is increasing exponentially due to several advances, including absence of ionizing radiation, excellent tissue contrast and high capability for lesion characterization and treatment monitoring. The application of several of these diagnostic weapons in a multiparametric fashion enables to better characterize thymic epithelial tumors and other mediastinal tumoral lesions, accurate assessment of the invasion of adjacent structures and detection of pathologic lymph nodes and metastasis. Also, "do not touch lesions" could be identified with the associated impact in the management of those patients. One of the hotspots of the multiparametric chest MR is its ability to detect with acuity early response to treatment in patients with mediastinal malignant neoplasms. This has been related with higher rates of overall survival and progression free survival.Therefore, in this review we will analyze the current functional imaging techniques available(18 F-Fluorodeoxiglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography, diffusion-weighted imaging, dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI, diffusion tensor imaging and MR spectroscopy) for the evaluation of mediastinal lesions, with a focus in their correct acquisition and post-processing. Also, to review the clinical applications of these techniques in the diagnostic approach of benign and malignant conditions of the mediastinum.
文摘Acute heart failure is a leading cause of hospitalization and death,and it is an increasing burden on health care systems. The correct risk stratification of patients could improve clinical outcome and resources allocation,avoiding the overtreatment of low-risk subjects or the early,inappropriate discharge of high-risk patients. Many clinical scores have been derived and validated for in-hospital and post-discharge survival; predictive models include demographic,clinical,hemodynamic and laboratory variables. Data sets are derived from public registries,clinical trials,and retrospective data. Most models show a good capacity to discriminate patients who reach major clinical end-points,with C-indices generally higher than 0.70,but their applicability in realworld populations has been seldom evaluated. No study has evaluated if the use of risk score-based stratification might improve patient outcome. Some variables(age,blood pressure,sodium concentration,renal function) recur in most scores and should always be considered when evaluating the risk of an individual patient hospitalized for acute heart failure. Future studies will evaluate the emerging role of plasma biomarkers.
文摘Cardiovascular diseases represent the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in the western world. Assessment of cardiac function is pivotal for early diag-nosis of primitive myocardial disorders, identification of cardiac involvement in systemic diseases, detection of drug-related cardiac toxicity as well as risk stratification and monitor of treatment effects in patients with heart failure of various etiology. Determination of ejection fraction with different imaging modalities currently represents the gold standard for evaluation of cardiac function. However, in the last few years, cardiovascular magnetic resonance feature tracking techniques has emerged as a more accurate tool for quantitative evalu-ation of cardiovascular function with several parameters including strain, strain-rate, torsion and mechanical dispersion. This imaging modality allows precise quantification of ventricular and atrial mechanics by directly evaluating myocardial fiber deformation. The purpose of this article is to review the basic principles, current clinical applications and future perspectives of cardiovascular magnetic resonance myocardial feature tracking, highlighting its prognostic implications.
文摘Aortic size index(ASI) has been proposed as a reliable criterion to predict risk for aortic dissection in Turner syndrome with significant thresholds of 20-25 mm/m2. We report a case of aortic arch dissection in a patient with Turner syndrome who, from the ASI thresholds proposed, was deemed to be at low risk of aortic dis-section or rupture and was not eligible for prophylactic surgery. This case report strongly supports careful monitoring and surgical evaluation even when the ASI is < 20 mm/m2 if other significant risk factors are present.
文摘Heart failure and kidney disease share common pathophysiological pathways which can lead to mutual dysfunction,known as cardiorenal syndrome.In heart failure patients,renal impairment is related to hemodynamic and nonhemodynamic factors.Both decreased renal blood flow and renal venous congestion due to heart failure could lead to impaired renal function.Kidney disease and worsening renal function are independently associated with poor prognosis in heart failure patients,both in acute and chronic clinical settings.The aim of this review is to assess the role of renal imaging modalities in the evaluation and management of heart failure patients.Renal imaging techniques could complete laboratory data,as estimated glomerular filtration rate,exploring different pathophysiological factors involved in kidney disease and adding valuable information about renal structure and function.In particular,Doppler examination of arterial and venous hemodynamics is a feasible and non invasive technique,which has proven to be a reliable method for prognostic stratification in patients with cardiorenal syndrome.The renal resistance index,a measure related to renal hemodynamics,can be calculated from the Doppler evaluation of arterial flow.Moreover,the analysis of Doppler venous flow patterns can integrate information from the arterial study and evaluate renal congestion.Other imaging modalities are promising,but still confined to research purposes.
文摘Background: The importance of immunotherapy in cancer treatment has been increased owing to its non-toxicity and application to personalized medicine. However, precise estimation indices of immunotherapy have yet to be established. To determine effective evaluation indices of immunotherapy for cancer treatment, we analyzed the CD4/CD8 ratio under various conditions in clinical patients with advanced cancer. Patients and Methods: Thirty-four patients who underwent one course of adoptive activated immunotherapy with or without additional conventional chemotherapy were enrolled. Before and after one course of immunotherapy, changes in the CD4/CD8 ratio were estimated by flow cytometry. Results: All patients showed a tendency toward a decrease in the CD4/CD8 ratio during a 3-month period after one course of adoptive activated T lymphocyte immunotherapy. Patients who had undergone prior surgery showed a remarkable increase in CD8 T cell number. Thus, adoptive activated T lymphocyte immunotherapy improves immunological ability against cancer invasion. The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group’s performance status during one course of immunotherapy was significantly improved in the antecedent surgery group, with no evidence of improved PS in the non-antecedent surgery group. Patients with an increased CD4/CD8 ratio (n = 6) may have a worse outcome during adoptive activated T lymphocyte immunotherapy even with an additional course of immunotherapy. Improved actuarial survival rate of patients in the antecedent surgery group showed significant long-term benefit compared to those in the non-antecedent surgery group (p = 0.0298), as previously reported. Conclusion: The CD4/CD8 ratio is a significant indicator of outcome of adoptive activated T lymphocyte immunotherapy.
文摘Ischemic mitral regurgitation(IMR) represents a common complication after myocardial infarction. The valve is anatomically normal and the incompetence is the result of papillary muscles displacement and annular dilatation, causing leaflets tethering. Functionally the leaflets present a restricted systolic motion due to tethering forces that displaces the coaptation surface toward the left ventricle apex. The patients present poor left ventricular function at the time of surgery and the severity of the mitral regurgitation increases the risk of mortality. Currently there is general agreement to treat surgically severe IMR nevertheless strong evidences for patient with moderate insufficiency remains poor and proper treatment debated. The most effectivesurgical approach for the treatment of IMR remains debated. Some authors demonstrated that coronary artery bypass graft(CABG) alone is beneficial in patients with IMR. Conversely, in most patients, moderate IMR will persist or worsen after CABG alone which translate in higher long-term mortality as a function of residual mitral regurgitation severity. A probable reason for this unclear surgical management of functional MR is due to the contemporary suboptimal results of reparative techniques. The standard surgical treatment of chronic IMR is CABG associated with undersized annuloplasty using complete ring. Though, the recurrence of mitral regurgitation remains high(】 30%) because of continous left ventricle remodeling. To get better long term results, in the last decade, several subvalvular procedures in adjunct to mitral anuloplasty have been developed. Among them, surgical papillary muscle relocation represents the most appreciated option capable to restore normal left ventricle geometry. In the next future new preoperative predictors of increased mitral regurgitation recurrence are certainly needed to find an individual time period of treatment in each patient with moderate IMR.
文摘Objective To compare the therapeutic effects and safety of monopolar and bipolar radiofrequency(RF) ablation used during cardiac surgery to treat atrial fibrillation.Methods We retrospectively studied a total of 81 patients with chronic atrial fibrillation who underwent open cardiac surgery with concomitant RF ablation between January 2007 and March 2011.Fifty-eight patients received bipolar RF ablation and 23 received monopolar RF ablation,respectively.The sinus rhythm restoration rate,the procedural duration,the frequency of severe perioperative complications,and mortality were compared between the two groups.Results The sinus rhythm restoration rate did not differ significantly between the two groups after follow-up of 15.1 ± 12.6 months(P=0.199).The frequencies of severe perioperative complications and mortality were also similar in the two groups.The total procedural time using bipolar RF ablation was significantly shorter than that using monopolar ablation(19.7±4.6 minutes vs.28.1±8.5 minutes,P< 0.001).Conclusions Both monopolar and bipolar RF ablation are safe and effective in treating chronic atrial fibrillation patients during open cardiac surgery,but bipolar RF ablation is more convenient in practice.
文摘Neurosurgeons who perform intracere-bral hemorrhage(ICH)evacuation procedures have lim-ited options for monitoring hematoma evacuation and intraoperatively assessing residual-hematoma burden.In recent years,neuroendoscope-assisted,minimally inva-sive surgery for spontaneous ICH is simple and effective and becoming increasingly common.Many methods are applied in neuronavigation-assisted surgery for ICH evac-uation,such as neuroendoscopy,three-dimensional(3D)reconstruction,intraoperative ultrasound,and stereotac-tic craniotomy.Compared with a traditional craniotomy operation,hematoma removal(using methods of accurate localization)can reduce iatrogenic damage,protect white matter,and shorten patients’recovery time.This paper mainly outlines the treatment of basal ganglia-cerebral hemorrhage with neuroendoscopy assistance using local-ization techniques.
文摘Background:To observe the effect of perioperative acupuncture on postoperative pain in patients undergoing standard sternotomy.Methods:57 patients who received standard median sternotomy were randomly divided into acupuncture group(30 cases)and control group(27 cases).The control group was treated with routine operation and nursing,and the acupuncture group was treated with acupuncture for 10 days on the basis of perioperative period.The pain levels of the two groups before and after operation were compared.Results:The pain level of the acupuncture group was significantly lower than that of the control group on the 2nd,10th,and 30th days after operation(P<0.05),and the short-term pain levels in the two groups were statistically significant(P<0.05).Conclusion:The perioperative acupuncture treatment has a significant analgesic effect on short-term pain for patients undergoing anterior midline thoracotomy,and it is helpful for patients to recover quickly after surgery.
文摘A 76-year-old Caucasian woman was admitted to the emergency room and referred for cardiac evaluation for dyspnea and abrupt onset of cough three weeks ago. She had a history of well-controlled arterial hypertension and was on adequate oral anticoagulant therapy for permanent atrial fibrillation. Previous thoracic injuries, connective tis- sue disorders or recent infections were excluded. No chest pain or syncope was reported. mmHg in both arms, heart rate Blood pressure was 150/50 was 90 beats/min.
文摘Septic arthritis of the sternoclavicular joint is a rare and serious infection. A delay in the diagnosis may lead to serious complications. The appropriate medical and surgical treatment is crucial to the outcome. This article aims to report our experience in the successful management of sternoclavicular joint infection complicated with a lung infection. The authors present an unusual case of sternoclavicular joint infection extending into lung parenchyma with lung abscess formation in a diabetic patient, with uncontrolled diabetes that was successfully treated. At revaluation, he was asymptomatic with no evidence of relapse. Although sternoclavicular joint infection is a rare condition we highlight the importance of clinician’s awareness for an early diagnosis and treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics and surgery.
文摘Objective: This study seeks to evaluate the results of surgery performed according to the etiological causes of diaphragmatic eventration or paralysis. Method: Files of 54 patients (35 males, 19 females;mean age: 39.1 ± 3.01 years) who had undergone diaphragm plication between January 2005 and June 2011 in two clinics located in Istanbul were studied in terms of pulmonary spirometry, applied surgical procedure, duration of hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality. Results: In diaphragm plications, observed etiologies were isolated diaphragmatic eventration without phrenic nerve injury (Group 1) in 20 (37%) patients due to blunt thoracic trauma;Group 2 (thymoma in 19 (35.2%) patients;lung cancer in 7 (12.9%) patients;mediastinal tumor in 3 (5.6%) patients) and congenital heart surgery (Group 3) in 5 (9.3%) patients. The mean time to plication was 7.4 months in Group 1. The mean duration of hospitalization was 4 days in Group 1, 6.2 days in Group 2, 11.8 days in Group 3. Mean forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume at 1 second improved by 17%, 20.3%, respectively (p In Group 1, mean dyspnea-related hospital admission before plication was 2.4 times. At the end of 6 months after plication mean dyspnea-related hospital admission was 0 time. All of them returned to daily activities or their job within 6 months in Group 1. Postoperative mortality was observed in 2 (3.7%) patients in Group 3 while the overall complication rates were 24%. The morbidity rates were 8%, 27.5%, 60%, respectively;and the mortality rates were 0%, 0%, 40%, respectively. Conclusion: As a result, it could be suggested that early and timely performed plications for diaphragmatic eventration improves functional status and assesses a shorter lenght of stay. On the other hand,simultaneously performed plications in intraoperative phrenic nerve resections can be performed with acceptable morbidity and no mortality. In diaphragmatic paralysis due to congenital heart surgery, morbidity and mortality rate is still high.