The results of this thesis acknowledge one of the major contemporary problems in AF treatment, which is to find the optimal balance between ablation efficacy and related potential complications.... Show moreThe results of this thesis acknowledge one of the major contemporary problems in AF treatment, which is to find the optimal balance between ablation efficacy and related potential complications. A higher efficacy may be obtained by a more invasive ablation strategy, while this type of procedure also seems to increase the risk for complications. On the other hand, simplifying the procedure with a so-called single-shot device can also lead to an increased complication rate. Therefore, optimization of procedures with currently available catheters may be the best strategy to achieve a highly effective procedure for patients with paroxysmal or even persistent AF, without leading to significant complications. A minimally invasive strategy may be suitable for patients with (longstanding) persistent AF, especially if these patients have no comorbidities that require open heart surgery. The studies described in this thesis contributed to further elucidating the feasibility and potential risks of performing new ablation procedures and catheters. This may contribute to optimize AF ablation procedures. Show less
Bilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) is a widely used surgical technique that is used to treat mandibular deformity. This thesis investigated BSSO with splitter and separators. The... Show moreBilateral sagittal split osteotomy (BSSO) is a widely used surgical technique that is used to treat mandibular deformity. This thesis investigated BSSO with splitter and separators. The occurrences of common complications and their risk factors are assessed. BSSO was performed according to the Hunsuck modification with splitter and separator without the use of chisels. Retrospective analysis of more than 250 patients was performed. BSSO performed with the splitter-separator technique was found to be associated with a low mean incidence of permanent hypoaesthesia of 9.9% per patient. Age was a significant risk factor for hypoaesthesia with marked differences between age groups (<19 years: 4.8%; 19-30 years: 7.9%; >30 years 15.2%). The incidence of bad split was 4.0% per patient. The intra-operative presence of third molars significantly increased the risk of bad split. Infection occurred in 15.1% of patients. Removal of bicortical screw osteosynthesis material because of symptoms was indicated in 4.9% of patients. Relevant risk factors for complications are age (hypoaesthesia) and the presence of third molars during surgery (bad split). Show less
