Progress in Cardiology 15 [antikvár]

PREFACE We are pleased to publish the Symposium on New Therapeutic Approaches to Cardiac Arrhythmias in Volume 15 of Progress in Cardiology. It is our distinct honor to have Dr. Douglas P. Zipes as the guest editor of the Symposium. The important issues dealt with in the Symposium, which comprises the first seven chapters of this volume, are succinctly summarized in the Foreword written by Dr. Zipes. In Chapter 8, Dr. Abela and associates describe the uses of laser therapy in cardiovascular disease. They first discuss laser physics and tissue interactions. The characteristic properties of laser energy include precise direction and transmission through an optic fiber, selective absorption, and photocoagulation of tissue. All of these qualities suggest that laser beams may be useful for recanalization of obstructed vessels or widening of channels through partially obstructive lesions. Subsequently, the authors review clinical trials describing preliminary applications of lasers to the management of peripheral and coronary artery disease. Other possible uses for laser energy include His-bundle or arrhythmia-focus ablation, direct cardiac muscle revascularization, and direct myectomy in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Finally, the potential hazards of laser therapy are mentioned. The use of laser energy may be associated with electric shock, fire, explosion of ignitable gases, and production of toxic fumes or ultraviolet radiation. In animals and human patients, three potential problems that may be associated with laser therapy are thrombosis, embolism, and perforation of blood vessels. Of these, the last is the most serious. In Chapter 9, Dr. Padmavati presents a review of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease in India. Data sources include several pilot research projects, including collaborative studies conducted in India, epidemiologic data, and an international cooperative program. The prevalence of rheumatic heart disease, the incidence of acute rheumatic fever, and epidemiologic data in India are discussed. The clinical features, laboratory findings, and treatment of acute rheumatic fever are fully described. The high costs to the public of rheumatic heart disease and its surgical management are discussed. The author recommends proper measures for both secondary and primary prophylaxis against acute rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease. The authors wish to take this opportunity to thank Mr. R. Kenneth Bussy, Mr Samuel A. Rondinelli, Mr. Lawrence Bentley, and Mrs. Holly Campbell Lukens of Lea & Febiger for their continued cooperation and support. We are also grateful to Miss Cheryl Peacock and Mrs. Barbara Goodwin for their secretarial assist- Rochester, New York London, England Paul N. Yu John F. Goodwin V