ABSTRACT
Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) may manifest with mild nonspecific symptoms or progress to a more severe hemodynamic collapse and sudden cardiac arrest. A substantial thrombotic burden can precipitate sudden right ventricular strain and failure. Traditionally, systemic thrombolytics have been employed in such scenarios; however, patients often present with contraindications, or these interventions may prove ineffective. Outcomes for this medically complex patient population are unfavorable, necessitating a compelling argument for advanced therapeutic modalities or alternative approaches. Moreover, patients frequently experience complications beyond hemodynamic instability, such as profound hypoxia and multiorgan failure, necessitating assertive early interventions to avert catastrophic consequences. The existing data on the utilization of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices are not exhaustive. Various options for percutaneous MCS devices exist, each possessing distinct advantages and disadvantages. There is an imminent imperative to develop a tailored approach for this high-risk patient cohort to enhance their overall outcomes.
ABSTRACT
A man in his 30s, with a medical history of end-stage renal disease on haemodialysis three times a week after kidney transplant rejection, anaemia of inflammatory disease, hypertension, atrial fibrillation, hyperlipidaemia, subtotal parathyroidectomy and aortic valve replacement on Coumadin treatment, presented to our institution with glans penis pain. Examination of the penis revealed a painful black eschar with ulceration on the glans penis with surrounding erythema. CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis and penile Doppler ultrasound revealed calcifications of the abdominal, pelvic and penile blood vessels. He was diagnosed with penile calciphylaxis, a very rare manifestation of calciphylaxis characterised by penile blood vessel calcification leading to occlusion, ischaemia and necrosis. Treatment with low calcium dialysate and sodium thiosulfate was initiated with haemodialysis. Five days after the treatment started, the patient's symptoms improved.
Subject(s)
Calciphylaxis , Kidney Failure, Chronic , Penile Diseases , Male , Humans , Warfarin , Calciphylaxis/etiology , Calciphylaxis/therapy , Calciphylaxis/diagnosis , Renal Dialysis/adverse effects , Penis/diagnostic imaging , Kidney Failure, Chronic/complications , Kidney Failure, Chronic/therapy , Penile Diseases/etiology , Penile Diseases/therapyABSTRACT
The field of cardiovascular medicine is undergoing a transformative shift towards personalized medicinal therapy, particularly in the context of post stent implantation. This narrative review explores the significance, challenges, and future directions of individualized treatment strategies for patients with coronary stents. The review highlights the pivotal role of personalized approaches in optimizing treatment efficacy and minimizing adverse events. Real-world clinical studies and trials underscore the importance of tailoring antiplatelet therapy based on platelet function testing, genetic testing, and risk scoring. These studies reveal that personalized medicinal treatment improves clinical outcomes by balancing preventing thrombotic events and mitigating bleeding risks. Challenges, including cost, test availability, patient adherence, and ethical considerations, are discussed in depth, shedding light on the complexities of implementing personalized approaches. Technological advancements, including omics data integration, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics, shape the future of personalized medicinal therapy. These tools enable precise pharmacogenomic selection of medications and the development of integrated risk-scoring systems. Patient engagement and education are also central, with empowered patients and remote monitoring contributing to collaborative decision-making. In conclusion, the narrative review underscores that personalized medicinal therapy post stent implantation holds immense promise for revolutionizing cardiovascular care. By embracing a comprehensive approach that considers genetics, clinical factors, and patient preferences, healthcare providers can optimize treatment outcomes and improve patient quality of life. The evolving landscape of personalized medicine offers a glimpse into a future where tailored treatment strategies become the cornerstone of precision cardiovascular care.
ABSTRACT
First operated by Claudius Amyand in 1735. Amyand's hernia is a rare presentation and accounts for only 1% of all inguinal hernias. Amyand's hernia is described when the appendix is trapped within an inguinal hernia. In most cases, Amyand's hernia is an incidental finding intra-operatively due to variable clinical manifestations, and features. Amyand's hernia has variable theories explaining its pathophysiology besides having multiple proposed surgical approaches either via laparoscopic or open repair and with the latter being in a debate of pro and against mesh repair. We present a case of a sliding Amyand's hernia in which the vermiform appendix and part of the cecum were adherents to the wall of a right inguinal hernial sac. Amyand's hernia is a rare form of inguinal hernias and its presentation is widely variable. However, in most cases, it is non-complicated and is found as an incidental intraoperative finding. Many studies debate among different diagnostic and management approaches to serve a better outcome with fewer operative complications.