Management of Complex Cardiovascular Problems: The Consultant's Approach (2nd Edition)

Current trends predict that, by the year 2020, cardiovascular disease (CVD) will be the most common cause of death in the history of the human species. This century alone has seen the rise and recognition of CVD as a global problem, affecting both Western and Eastern populations in ever-increasing numbers. While modern research methods have lead to great strides in understanding, diagnosis, treatment, and decreasing its mortality, CVD still remains a major medical, social, and economic problem. In thirteen chapters, this book identifies clearly the most common cardiovascular problems encountered at the bedside by the consultant cardiologist. It then describes the possible different practical options in the management of these problems. These strategies incorporate data from recent clinical trials, with particular attention paid to specific subsets of patients who may (or may not) benefit from the suggested treatment. The intelligent application of these treatment modalities, tailored to a particular patient and maximized by the personal approach of the individual cardiologist consultant, will hopefully bring about the long-projected better outcome. In addition to common medical management, indications and practical suggestions for catheter-based interventions, endovascular pharmacologic manipulation, and atrial and ventricular pacing or defibrillation, are also addressed. Clinical cardiologists, internists or family physicians, as well as fellows and cardiovascular nurses, will find this book a valuable evidence-based medicine resource in the ongoing, global battle against complex cardiovascular problems.