Factor XIII influences bleeding after coronary surgery and can reduce the need for blood transfusions. In patients with prolonged diffuse bleeding, we therefore recommend substitution of Factor XIII.

No abstract

Compared with the literature, even a mild anticoagulation protocol does not increase the risk of thrombotic events, but reduces bleeding events in the use of an HM II LVAD.

Transcatheter closure of uncomplicated ASD is a feasible alternative but surgical stand-by is essential. Nevertheless more complicated ASD should be operated, especially since the cosmetically satisfactory techniques of minimal invasive heart surgery are available.

Local trauma to patients with implanted pacemaker devices may result in lead fracture or breakage of the lead socket with leakage of fluid into the connector system. This report describes an unusual case of complete entrance and exit block in a subpectorally implanted dual chamber pacemaker due to total disconnection and dislodgement of header block and battery part. Damage may be caused by an interaction of machine fatigue/manufacturing defective and fixation of the header with unusual movability of the battery, leading to breakage with intermittent malfunction and consecutive bradycardia and syncope.