[High-dose methylprednisolone pulse therapy for respiratory failure after open heart surgery]

After open-heart surgery, we sometime experience a patient whose respiratory function worsens extremely, though a heart function is improved. We experienced four such cases and treated with high-dose methylprednisolone. Then, we recognized that the respiratory function was improved at all cases. However, one case deteriorated again regarding the respiratory function, as a start of the treatment was delayed. There is a possibility that host resistance to infection is decreased by administration of corticosteroids. Therefore, we hesitate to treat with corticosteroids. Concerning respiratory failure after open heart surgery, however, we think that a respiratory function of a patient is improved if high-dose methylprednisolone pulse therapy is started in early stage.