Aspirin prolongation of the template bleeding time: influence of venostasis and direction of incision

The template bleeding time is a measure of platelet participation in primary hemostasis. Aspirin alters platelet function through interference with prostaglandin biosynthesis. In many individuals, aspirin will consistently prolong the bleeding time. Despite this observation, normal individuals rarely develop a bleeding disorder. This prompted us to investigate the influence of technical variables on the prolongation of the bleeding time by aspirin. Both direction of incision and venostasis influenced the prolongation of the bleeding time by aspirin. A horizontal incision with venostasis produced the most pronounced prolongation, while a vertical incision without venostasis didn't prolong the bleeding time despite the characteristic changes in platelet aggregation and release. These studies suggest that the influence of aspirin on the template bleeding time is dependent on technical variables and is minimal in the normal subject.     

Chorioidales Effusionssyndrom nach Embolisation einer indirekten Sinus-cavernosus-Fistel über die V. ophthalmica superior

Embolization of a cavernous sinus fistula (SCF) via the superior ophthalmic vein (SOV) was reported to be an almost uncomplicated procedure, even after ligature of the vein at the end of the procedure. We report about a complication of this therapy. A 58-year-old female had a successful embolization of a right indirect cavernous sinus fistula via the SOV. At the end of the operation the SOV was ligated because of the danger of bleeding. Directly after surgery she experienced general worsening of the right eye with signs of venous congestion and marked effusion syndrome. The patient underwent total heparinization to achieve an opening of venous collaterals. Under local therapy with atropine 1% eye drops a decrease of the intraocular pressure was observed. The effusion syndrome was completely resolved within 1 month. If embolization of a cavernous sinus fistula is performed via the SOV, the ligature of the vein at the end of the procedure leads to thrombosis, which can reduce the venous stream from the eye and orbit. A secondary effusion syndrome with ocular hypertension because of a ciliolenticular block situation is possible and requires appropriate therapy. It is not possible to assess the capacity and time of opening of the venous collateral system before surgery. Therefore a transient outflow disturbance should be considered.     

Monoamine receptors in human corneal epithelium and endothelium

PURPOSE: Monoamine receptors are found throughout the body. Reports about the presence of monoamine receptors in the human cornea are inconsistent. METHODS: Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and immunoblotting were used to localize monoamine receptor sites on human corneal epithelium and endothelium. RESULTS: Antibodies to alpha-1, beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors and to D1-like and 5HT-7 receptors were bound in corneal epithelium. Antibodies to alpha-1, alpha-2A, beta-1 and beta-2 adrenergic receptors and to 5HT-7 receptors were bound in corneal endothelium. CONCLUSIONS: Our data demonstrate the presence of several monoamine receptors in the human cornea. These receptors may play a role in the regulation of fluid transport or corneal homeostasis.     

Local myocardial necrosis and cardiac tamponade due to a central venous catheter (author's transl)

A case of a paraventricular brain abscess, which favourably responded to conservative intensive therapy, is reported. A central venous catheter was the cause of myocardial necrosis leading to cardiac tamponade. In an attempt to tap the effusion, the partly necrotic cardiac wall was perforated. Only by recognition of the danger, by intensive clinical observation of a patient and by regular checkup of the catheter tip were the fatal complications following central venous catheterization avoided.