The feasibility and safety of outpatient coronary angiography were studied in 2,106 patients. Patients were discharged with a pressure dressing 2 h after the angiographic study. No complications occurred in 99.53% of all patients. Severe complications were seen in 10 patients (0.47%). 9 patients (0.43%) had to be admitted to hospital, either for immediate treatment (4 patients) or due to complications (5 patients). Our results revealed a very low complication rate for outpatient coronary angiography. The number and severity of complications following coronary angiography did not differ significantly between inpatients and outpatients. Therefore, outpatient coronary angiography can be considered as a safe and feasible diagnostic method which may help cut health care costs.

We report on the prenatal diagnosis of a case of foetal meconium peritonitis pursuant to colon perforation in the 34th week of gestation. A sonographic examination of the foetus showed ascites, dense zones around the peritoneum and intestine, hepatosplenomegaly and hydroceles, as well as a slight hydramnios. The foetal abdomen was punctured under ultrasonographic control, and ascitic fluid was withdrawn. It was sterile but included granulocytes, leucocytes, epidermal epithelial cells and lanugo hairs, thereby confirming the diagnosis. The bilirubin concentration was very high, and the protein content was also increased. An amniofoetography gave a clear picture of the small intestine and showed a calcified zone in the upper left abdomen. A Caesarean section was performed prior to term, and the prenatal diagnosis was confirmed. After surgical correction the infant has developed satisfactorily up to the present age of 15 months, even though mucoviscidosis was diagnosed at the age of 5 months. In addition to ascites due to meconium peritonitis, several other types of foetal ascites are discussed.

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