Crystalloid versus blood cardioplegia in myocardial preservation during cardiopulmonary bypass

Sixty patients with an age group ranging between 15 and 54 years [mean 40 +/- 4], 26 males and 34 females, arranged in three groups according to the type of cardioplegia used during different types of cardiac surgical procedures performed. The postoperative assessment of myocardial preservation was depended on the hemodynamic affection, laboratory measurement of CPK and LDH and follow up echocardiography. The results showed more efficacy of cold crystalloid cardioplegia and continuous warm cardioplegia to preserve the myocardium in the period of ischemic arrest than cold crystalloid cardioplegia, especially in patients with borderline left ventricular function

Aortic root replacement for ascending aortic aneurysm

Between February 1996 and May 2000, 12 cases of ascending aortic aneurysm [seven males and five females] underwent aortic root replacement with coronary artery implantation. The age of the patients ranged from 17-55 years [mean 41 +/- 1.40]. The average size of the aorta at the time of operation was 6.2 cm. Marfan syndrome was the cause of the aneurysm in seven patients and atherosclerosis of the aortic wall was the cause in the remaining five patients. Composite valved conduit was used in all patients either with classic or modified Bentall technique. Postoperative hemorrhage, neurological deficits or mediastinitis were the complications encountered postoperatively. There was one perioperative mortality; the cause of death was postoperative heart failure

use of ultrasound therapy in the control of edema and trismus after odontectmy of lower third molar

Edema and trismus are undesirable consequence of oral surgical procedures. Although many pharmacological and physical methods have been used to minimize edema and trismus, no one has gained complete acceptance. Ultrasound is used in management of acute phases of inflammation of soft tissue in physiotherapy department. This study recommened the use of ultrasound therapy to reduce postoperative edema and trismus. It can be used effectively in cases where gross edema is expected after difficult operation. Ultrasound therapy is simple and easy, however it needs two visits to the therapist