Inhaled but not intravenous milrinone prevents pulmonary endothelial dysfunction after cardiopulmonary bypass

Y Lamarche1, O Malo, E Thorin

  • 1Research Center, and Department of Surgery, Montreal Heart Institute, 5000 Belanger Street East, Montreal, Quebec H1T 1C8, Canada. louis.perrault@icm-mhi.org

Abstract

Insights

Inhaled milrinone effectively prevents pulmonary endothelial dysfunction after cardiopulmonary bypass, offering a safer alternative to intravenous administration for managing pulmonary hypertension.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Research
  • Pulmonary Medicine
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) can induce systemic inflammation, leading to pulmonary endothelial dysfunction and potentially pulmonary hypertension.
  • Milrinone, a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, is explored for its therapeutic potential in mitigating CPB-induced complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the efficacy of inhaled versus intravenous milrinone in preserving pulmonary endothelium-dependent relaxations post-CPB.
  • To evaluate the hemodynamic and oxygenation effects of different milrinone administration routes in a porcine model.

Main Methods:

  • A porcine model was used with five groups: control, CPB only, inhaled milrinone, intravenous milrinone, and inhaled saline.
  • Pulmonary arterial relaxations to acetylcholine and bradykinin were assessed post-CPB in organ chambers.
  • Hemodynamic and oxygenation parameters were monitored throughout the experiment.

Main Results:

  • Inhaled milrinone resulted in less hypotension and a lower heart rate compared to intravenous milrinone.
  • Inhaled milrinone preserved pulmonary artery relaxations to acetylcholine, which were impaired by CPB.
  • Pulmonary artery relaxations to bradykinin were enhanced with inhaled milrinone treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Inhaled milrinone effectively prevents post-CPB pulmonary endothelial dysfunction.
  • The hemodynamic profile of inhaled milrinone is safer than that of intravenous administration.
  • This inhaled strategy shows promise for preventing pulmonary hypertension after cardiac surgery.