Implications of prosthetic valve implantation: an 8-year follow-up of patients with porcine bioprostheses

Article Abstract:

The valves of the heart direct blood flow from one part of the heart to another, and disease of the valves is a significant health problem in the United Sates. The diseased valve is usually replaced by artificial valves or valves derived from pig (porcine) tissue. An ideal valve is one that allows normal blood flow to occur, has a low ability to cause blood clots (thrombi), and is durable. Major complications of valvular replacement include thrombi (clot) formation, inflammation of the inside lining of the heart due to a bacterial infection (endocarditis), and most commonly valvular failure. Porcine valves are superior to artificial valves because they have a lower incidence of thrombi formation. This means that chronic therapy with anti-clotting drugs can be avoided. Increased rates of valve failure are seen in children and young adults, but older adults have a low incidence of valve failure. A recent study of 509 patients who underwent heart valve replacement with porcine prostheses were followed for a total of 1,633 patient-years to assess the long-term survival of this procedure. Eleven percent of the patients died within 30 days of receiving their new valve, but seventy-two percent of the patients were still alive five years after their operation. The most dangerous complication was prosthetic endocarditis, 46 percent of the patients developing this died. Eighty-four percent of the patients had an increased quality of life as assessed by New York Heart Association criteria. Most patients survive heart valve implantation, and have a higher quality of life as a result of it. Serious complications such as endocarditis can occur, but may be prevented if the patient takes prophylactic antibiotics, especially before going to the dentist. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Evaluation, Complications and side effects, Heart valve prosthesis, Artificial heart valves

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Pituitary stalk and ectopic hyperintense T(sub 1) signal on magnetic resonance imaging: implications for anterior pituitary dysfunction

Article Abstract:

The use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is leading to increased knowledge about the relationship between structural abnormalities of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland and various growth disorders. Generally, for individuals not suffering from hypopituitarism, a bright signal from the posterior pituitary gland is seen in only one location on MRI films. However, in patients with insufficient anterior pituitary function, the signal is located outside the area where it is normally seen. Absence or attenuation of the pituitary stalk seems to be associated with different aspects of pituitary hormone deficiencies. Retrospective analysis of MRI scans of children suffering from growth disorders may lead to a better understanding of the pathology of hypopituitarism.

Physiological aspects, Magnetic resonance imaging, Pituitary gland, Hypopituitarism

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Impacts of inbreeding in natural and captive populations of vertebrates: implications for conservation

Article Abstract:

The effects of inbreeding on endangered animal species populations are evaluated. Animal conservationists need to examine the ill effects of inbreeding depression. Studies indicate that prolonged inbreeding between animal species decreases their survival adaptive capacities. Populations of species in captivity have been noted to be declining. Studies indicate that inbreeding of animals in the wild may result in severe depletions in their populations which could further lead to extinction.

Research, Endangered species, Inbreeding

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