ght hepatectomy and whether it is as effective as the currently used agent (a histoacryl/lipiodol mixture). Two groups of nine patients each scheduled for extended right hepatectomy for primary or secondary hepatic tumor, had right portal vein embolization in an effort to induce future liver remnant (FLR) hypertrophy. One group had embolization with PHEMA, the other one with the histoacryl/lipiodol mixture. In all patients, embolization was performed using the right retrograde transhepatic access. Embolization was technically successful in all 18 patients, with no complication related to the embolization agent. Eight patients of either group developed FLR hypertrophy allowing extended right hepatectomy. Likewise, one patient in each group had recanalization of a portal vein branch. Histology showed that both embolization agents reach the periphery of portal vein branches, with PHEMA penetrating somewhat deeper into the periphery. PHEMA has been shown to be an agent suitable for embolization in the portal venous system comparable with existing embolization agent (histoacryl/lipiodol mixture).

Non-surgical management of aortic valve disease has been given considerable attention. Several recent publications have already reported its use in clinical practice. The main issue is to get an understanding of the pathophysiological processes and, most importantly, extensive experimental activity. In addition to testing various animal models, technical and material aspects are also being intensively investigated. It is not clear yet whether the durability and applicability of this promising development will be comparable with the standard of current cardiac surgery. Nonetheless, even the use of some models as a temporary approach helping to improve the circulatory status, not allowing safe surgery, is certainly justified. At any rate, a new stage of research and clinical application has been set off. However, experimental background continues to be simply indispensable. The paper is a short review of the issue.

The aim of our observation was to establish whether or not renal sympathetic denervation (RSD) may help control blood pressure (BP) levels in patients with severe hypertension refractory to pharmacological therapy. Out of a group of 12 patients, candidates for RSD, with uncontrolled hypertension and a systolic BP over 190 mm Hg on repeated measurements despite optimal medication, four patients were excluded for multiple renal arteries and one for hyperaldosteronism. Seven patients had RSD using a Symplicity device (5M, 2 F) with a mean age of 64.9 years. While all were followed up for a minimum of 6 months, follow-up duration in the majority of them was substantially longer (12-20 months). At six months post-RSD, six of the seven patients showed a decrease in systolic BP by at least 15 mm Hg while receiving the same or fewer doses of antihypertensive agents. A similar response was seen in diastolic BP. The BP decrease was maintained throughout whole follow-up. In a small group of patients with severe hypertension, we demonstrated that renal sympathetic denervation is capable of reducing blood pressure even in patients with severe hypertension.