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Adenosine myocardial protection: preliminary results of a phase II clinical trial

R M Mentzer1, V Birjiniuk, S Khuri

  • 1Department of Surgery, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington 40526-0298, USA.

Annals of Surgery
|May 11, 1999
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Adenosine cardioplegia administration during coronary artery bypass surgery appears safe and well-tolerated, potentially reducing postoperative complications like myocardial infarction and the need for intensive support. This cardiac protection strategy warrants further investigation.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Cardiac Surgery
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Myocardial protection is crucial during coronary artery bypass surgery (CABS) to reduce morbidity and mortality.
  • Inadequate protection of the ischemic heart remains a significant challenge in cardiac procedures.
  • Investigational pharmacologic agents are being explored for enhanced myocardial protection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the safety, tolerance, and efficacy of adenosine as a myocardial protective agent during CABS.
  • To evaluate adenosine's impact on postoperative complications and ventricular performance.

Main Methods:

  • A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 253 patients undergoing CABS.
  • Patients were randomized to receive cold blood cardioplegia, cardioplegia with 500 microM adenosine, or cardioplegia with 2 mM adenosine.
  • Adenosine infusion was administered perioperatively, with ventricular performance monitored invasively and noninvasively.

Main Results:

  • High-dose adenosine showed a trend towards decreased high-dose dopamine support and reduced myocardial infarction incidence.
  • A composite analysis indicated fewer adverse events (e.g., high-dose dopamine, epinephrine, intra-aortic balloon pump, myocardial infarction, death) in the high-dose adenosine group.
  • Overall operative mortality was 3.6%.

Conclusions:

  • Adenosine treatment during CABS is safe and well-tolerated.
  • Adenosine may be associated with a reduction in postoperative complications.
  • Further research may confirm adenosine's role in improving outcomes in cardiac surgery.

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