The Sussex Heart Charity has recently approved a request from Cardiac Surgeon Mr Michael Lewis for £28,500 to fund the following research project as discribed by Mr Lewis.
”This study is about trying to improve the treatment of patients undergoing coronary artery surgery. To perform this heart operation often requires the help of a heart-lung machine, which supports your body’s circulation whilst the surgeon bypasses the diseased blood vessels. During the surgery, the heart has to be protected so that it is not injured by the strain of the operation. Despite using standard techniques to protect the heart, some temporary injury still occurs from which the heart gradually recovers during the first few hours and days following the operation. This study looks to improve on these established ‘protective techniques’ by preparing the heart before surgery with a drug that switches the fuel of the heart from less efficient fatty acids to more efficient sugars.
This grant has allowed us to employ a research nurse to assist in patient recruitment, patient consent and data collection. We are very grateful for the continuing support of the Sussex Heart Charity, without whom this pioneering work would not be possible.
Michael E Lewis MD FRCS Cth
Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Royal Sussex County Hospital
Eastern Rd
Brighton
BN2 5BE