Charles Chalant

Inhibition by amlodipine of activity evoked in isolated human coronary arteries by endothelin, prostaglandin F2 alpha and depolarization.

Amlodipine, a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist has been examined on the rhythmic activity of isolated human coronary arteries. Amlodipine inhibited both the spontaneous rhythmic activity and the rhythmic activity evoked by prostaglandin F2 alpha and endothelin in isolated human coronary arteries. It also inhibited the contraction evoked by potassium depolarization. The action of amlodipine was characterized by slow onset and voltage dependency.

Restenosis After Carotid Endarterectomy

Fifty endarterectomies of the internal carotid artery have been performed on 43 patients from March, 1984, to December, 1985. There were no perioperative or hospital deaths. The permeability of the operated vessel was confirmed by Doppler or angiography in every case. All patients received aspirin 100 mg/day and dipyridamole 400 mg/day post operatively and all were examined for follow-up. Routine Doppler examination of the carotid artery was performed at frequent intervals. At long-term follow-up, 4 patients had died. None of these deaths could be linked to a neurologic deficit. Three restenoses due to intimal hyperplasia were discovered at follow-up between the eighth and twelfth months. The three re stenoses were successfully reoperated. Because the risk of carotid artery restenosis appears to be real, routine fol low-up with Doppler examination is required. Suspicion of restenosis is an indi cation for control angiography. If restenosis is severe, a reoperation is warranted.