[Cardiovascular operations in patients with perioperative reduced kidney function]

Acute renal failure (ARF) following cardiovascular surgery represents a serious complication in view of the multimorbidity in such patients. 8 out of 16 patients with ARF requiring hemodialysis after cardiac surgery died; the degree of preoperative renal insufficiency could not be recognized as predisposing factor. 17 out of 21 patients with ARF following aortic vascular surgery died; the severity of the preoperative disease seems to be of prognostic value. Open heart surgery had to be performed in 9 patients out of the chronic dialysis program; perioperative complications did not occur, suggesting that cardiovascular operations can be performed without increased risk in this patient group.