ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: Here we aim to describe in detail the logical procedure and philosophical approach to establish a minimally access aortic valve replacement programme in the current era. METHODS: A real example of a National Health Service Trust in the United Kingdom has been described in a step-wise manner. RESULTS: The outcomes of the new procedure established in this fashion are reported and the philosophical lessons learnt from the experiences are highlighted. CONCLUSIONS: It is hoped that this paper will act as a template for newly established surgeons to embark onto a mini-AVR programme. An open-minded and enthusiastic team will undoubtedly be able to facilitate the introduction of this 'new service'. A sensible approach will provide safe and sustainable outcomes.
Subject(s)
Aortic Valve/surgery , Heart Valve Diseases/surgery , Heart Valve Prosthesis Implantation/methods , Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures/methods , Humans , United KingdomABSTRACT
Infective endocarditis (IE) is an infectious disease, which leads to death when is untreated. In most cases IE is caused by typical bacteria. IE caused by atypical bacteria is rare. In this paper, we describe a female patient with IE caused by Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae (ER). Due to inflammation and leaflets' damage she underwent double-valve implantation (aortic and mitral ones). A long-term antibiotic therapy was given with good outcome. We also describe the organism, types of human diseases caused by ER and treatment options.
