[Non-cardiac complications after open heart surgery]

The most important complications after open heart surgery are neurological, gastrointestinal (GI), and renal complications. New neurological deficits may occur in 1%, and neuropsychiatric alterations may be observed in 40%. In 6% peripheral neurological damage occurs. Endoscopy in all patients whose clinical history suggests signs of gastric ulcer disease, and perioperative H2-blocking therapy are effective in reducing severe GI bleeding to 1%. Small-bowel ischemia is a rare but high risk complication. Hepatitis due to homologous blood transfusion is as low as 2%-3%. Postoperative renal insufficiency occurs in 1% needing hemodialysis. Good hemodynamic condition during and after surgery reduces the frequency of extracardiac complications as well as the reduction of use of homologous blood transfusions for open heart surgery.