Multi-organ protection during open heart surgery

Open-heart surgery with the use of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is associated with an inflammatory cascade which contributes to the development of postoperative complications including multiple organ failure. To provide an update on the subject, we briefly review the recent English-language literature.

During CPB, various factors have been recognized to induce a complex inflammatory response. Based on an enhanced understanding of the underlying mechanisms, therapeutic strategies have been developed to reduce this inflammatory reaction and its subsequent damaging effects. Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting may result in less inflammatory injury as compared with the conventional maneuver, which can in turn, diminish the incidence of cardiac, renal, or neurological dysfunction. It is also clear that improving the biocompatibility of CPB materials can lead to a better patient recovery. Inasmuch as the pathophysiology involved appears to be multifactorial, it is unlikely that a single intervention could achieve the desired goal. Both pharmacologic strategies, such as steroid pretreatment, and modification of mechanical devices, such as the use of heparin-coated CPB circuits, could have important clinical implications. The balance pro- and anti-inflammatory responses may be crucial in limiting the extent of inflammatory injury.

To date, the concept of organ protection should no longer be limited to the individual organ. Instead, investigations must be extended to focus on a systemic level.