In 1995 Topol[1] first described what vascular surgeons have known for many years: The pressure drop in a fluid flowing through a long cylindrical pipe such as a stenotic artery becomes functionally significant when the obstruction exceeds 70%, first described in the Poiseuille law in 1846[2]. As was stated in Topol’s paper: “Accordingly, before the residual stenosis in an infarct …
“Cardiac perspectives from a heart surgeon”
In March 2013, I participated in a Podcast and several articles, published as “New fronts in heart disease: perspectives from a heart surgeon” in the Digital Journal. In it, I had the opportunity to discuss advances in the the treatment and prevention of heart disease. These were the questions that I addressed during the interview. For the answers I chose from …
Chronic anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation
A few days ago I published an article called fatalities involving the new drug Dabigatran. This has resulted almost immediately in a letter from the Media Group Director of the PR company that handles advertising for the pharmaceutical firm involved. I am glad to post it here: Comment: “Just wanted to contact you with regard to your “Fatalities with Dabigatran and Warfarin …
Fatalities with Dabigatran and Warfarin Caused by Bleeding
A FDA report presented at the 2013 American College of Cardiology (ACC) 2013 Scientific Sessions has suggested a much higher case fatality rate than that reported in other major clinical trials of the drug. For the study, reports of bleeding with dabigatran or warfarin submitted to the FDA between January 1, 2010, and June 30, 2012 were examined: Adverse drug reactions …