The possibility of cardiovascular disease goes up with obstructive sleep apnea. Dr Udgeath Dhir, Director and Head of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CTVS), Fortis Memorial Research Institute, maps the risks.
Should people with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a condition where your breathing stops repeatedly at night because your upper airways collapse, use a breathing device to prevent a heart attack and ensure oxygen flow to this vital organ?.
It’s easy and free!
Why Valve Repair is a Cost-Effective Solution Over Replacement Valves play a crucial role in many industries, acting as the gatekeepers of fluid and gas flow within piping systems. Whether in oil refineries, water treatment plants, power stations, or chemical manufacturing, valves are central to the smooth operation of these systems. But like any mechanical component, valves can suffer from wear and tear over time due to high pressures, corrosive environments, or simply through repeated use. The natural course of action when a valve malfunctions or becomes inefficient is to replace it with a new one. However, in many cases, valve repair is not only a viable solution but also a more practical and cost-effective one. This article provides an overview of the factors we consider when choosing repair over replacement, our methodology for executing repairs, and the significant advantages of opting for repair rather than the cost and downtime involved in full replacement. Why Opt for Valve Repair Instead of Replacement? When faced with a malfunctioning or worn valve, organizations often face the decision: repair or replace? While replacing a valve may seem like the straightforward choice, several reasons favor repair as a more effective and strategic option. 1. Cost-Efficiency One of the most significant advantages of valve repair is the cost savings. New valves, particularly those that are custom-made for specific systems, can be expensive. Not only does the cost of the valve itself need to be considered, but there are also expenses related to shipping, installation, …
The human heart is a marvel of biological engineering—relentlessly pumping blood, maintaining circulation, and supporting life. However, like any organ, it is not immune to disease. One of the rare but serious conditions that can affect the heart is a cardiac tumor. Though uncommon, cardiac tumors pose unique diagnostic and surgical challenges, requiring highly specialized care. In this article, we’ll explore what cardiac tumors are, the different types, how they affect the body, and the safest methods for their removal—with a focus on modern surgical techniques that are pushing the boundaries of cardiovascular medicine. What Is a Cardiac Tumor? A cardiac tumor is an abnormal growth that forms in the heart or the surrounding tissues. These tumors can be: Benign (non-cancerous) – These are the most common and generally do not spread to other parts of the body. Malignant (cancerous) – Rare, but aggressive and can metastasize (spread) to other organs. Cardiac tumors can develop in any part of the heart: the walls, chambers, valves, or even in the pericardium (the outer lining of the heart). Types of Cardiac Tumors 1. Primary Cardiac Tumors These originate in the heart itself and are quite rare. Myxoma: The most common type of primary benign cardiac tumor, usually found in the left atrium. Fibroma: Typically found in children, developing within the muscular walls of the heart. Rhabdomyoma: Also more common in children, often associated with a genetic condition called tuberous sclerosis. Papillary Fibroelastoma: Often found on heart valves and may lead to embolic events. Sarcoma: A rare and …
When it comes to heart valve diseases, one of the most critical decisions a cardiac surgeon must make is whether to repair or replace the affected valve. While valve replacement is sometimes necessary, especially in cases of severe degeneration or damage, modern cardiac surgery has made tremendous strides in valve repair techniques. At the heart of this evolution is a patient-first philosophy: preserving the body’s own anatomy whenever possible to ensure better outcomes and quality of life. In this article, we’ll explore why valve repair is often preferable to replacement, the challenges involved in complex repairs, the advanced techniques we employ, and the patient benefits of this approach. Why Repair is Often Better than Replacement Heart valves are intricate structures that open and close to regulate blood flow through the heart’s chambers. When one or more of these valves become dysfunctional due to congenital issues, infection, age-related degeneration, or other causes, the heart's efficiency is compromised. Valve replacement—whether with a mechanical or bioprosthetic valve—has traditionally been the go-to solution in severe cases. However, replacement introduces several lifelong considerations: Risk of clot formation (especially with mechanical valves) Need for lifelong blood thinners Limited lifespan of bioprosthetic valves Risk of valve deterioration over time On the other hand, repairing the native valve preserves the patient’s own tissue, eliminating many of these issues. When done effectively, valve repair results in: Better heart function Lower risk of infection (endocarditis) Improved durability Fewer long-term complications No need for lifelong anticoagulation The Complexity Behind Valve …
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