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Interview with
Prof. Martin P. O´Laughlin |
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Martin P. O´Laughlin, M.D.,
Associate Professor,
Pediatric Cardiology,
Director Pediatric Cardiology
Catheterization Laboratory,
Duke University Med. Center,
Durham, North Carolina, USA |
| Prof.
Martin P. O´Laughlin |
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"Are echocardiograms justified
in screening young people for intensive sports competition ?" |
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If there is no suspicion of
heart disease in healthy patients, then echocardiograms are not usually
considered justified as a screening tool for all potential athletes.
Individual sports associations at highly competitive levels may have
their own requirements. |
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"What important information
can you obtain from an echocardiogram when screening young athletes
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Both the structure and function
of the heart can be seen. In some patients, muscle or other tissue
on the chest makes visualization difficult, but for the most part,
the four chambers and the ability of the heart to contract may be
measured. Possible aortic narrowings such as coarctation of the aorta
may be able to be diagnosed. |
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"Should automatic defibrillators
be in all schools and if so why ?" |
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Automatic defibrillators should
be widely available in public places. A school would be a very appropriate
location for such a device. This is not merely for potential use with
students, but for use with visitors, parents, and employees as well.
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