This book presents a comprehensive survey of acute heart failure. A series of experts recognized worldwide discuss specific topics so that, together, a wide spectrum of experimental and clinical investigations are covered. Pathophysiologic, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects are included. The present volume will help clinicians deal with the important problem of acute heart failure. It will help provide an up-to-date reference for those involved in cardiology, internal medicine, pediatrics, anesthesia, intensive care and emergency medicine.

Inhalt
Abnormal Ventricular Function.- Myocardial Mechanical Function in Heart Failure: How Should We Think About It and Measure It?.- Pathophysiology of Acute Heart Failure.- Abnormal Coronary Vasomotion in the Genesis of Transient Myocardial Ischemia.- ?-Adrenergic Receptors Subtypes in Myocardium.- Receptor Physiology in Acute Heart Failure.- Sympatho-Adrenal System in Congestive Heart Failure.- Endocrine Response to Heart Failure.- Infectious Causes of Acute Cardiac Dysfunction.- Heart Failure in Septic Shock.- Heart Failure After Open Heart Surgery.- Heart Failure in Acute Pulmonary Hypertension.- Hemodynamic Consequences of Cardiac Arrhythmias.- Acute Heart Failure in Childhood: Pathophysiology and Treatment.- Mechanism of Action of Inotropic Agents in Heart Failure.- Digoxin Therapy in Acute Heart Failure.- Mechanism of Action of Adrenergic Agents in Acute Congestive Heart Failure.- The Place of Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors.- Mechanism of Action of Vasodilating Agents.- Vasodilators: Rationale and Practical Use.- Cardiogenic Shock in Right Ventricular Infarction.- The Place of Thrombolysis and Angioplasty in Acute Heart Failure.- The Effect of Intrathoracic Pressure on the Failing Heart.- Use of CPAP in Cardiogenic Pulmonary Edema.- Cardiac Surgery for Cardiogenic Shock.- Intra-Aortic Balloon Counterpulsation.- Mechanical Support of the Failing Heart.