“Murmur clinic” - A novel use of cardiology resources to address an unmet need

Abstract

support was required including inotropes (14), intra-aortic balloon pulsation (9), extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation (4) and emergency percutaneous balloon atrial septostomy for florid pulmonary oedema (2). Eleven patients had immunosuppressive therapy and 6 patients required temporary or permanent pacing. Eight patients made a full recovery, 4 died in intensive care, 1 died suddenly 3 days after discharge (pulmonary embolism) and another 2 years later. One patient had mechanical bridging to cardiac transplantation 7 months after initial hospitalisation. Conclusion: Although fulminant myocarditis has a high morbidity and mortality, more than half the patients survived with intensive haemodynamic support, often to a full recovery.