The effect of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition on myocardial function and blood pressure after coronary artery bypass surgery--a randomised study

To investigate the effect of 6 weeks' pre-operative treatment with the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, quinapril, on left ventricular function when measured 3 months after coronary artery bypass graft surgery and to examine the safety of such treatment.

Patients (96) [86 males, 10 females; mean age 61 years] with chronic stable angina, on the waiting list for coronary artery bypass graft surgery, underwent measurement of left ventricular function by resting radionuclide ventriculography. Patients were then randomised to quinapril 20 mg once daily or placebo in a double-blind fashion, in addition to existing anti-anginal therapy and this regimen was continued for up to 6 weeks prior to operation. Measurement of left ventricular function was repeated 3 months following surgery, after recommencement of pre-surgery anti-anginal therapy for 1 week. Effects on systemic vascular resistance (SVR) during bypass were calculated from perfusion records and vasoconstrictor use during operation was documented. The safety of the addition of quinapril to the anti-anginal regimen was assessed by measurement of systemic blood pressure (BP) after the first dose of study medication, measurement of intra-operative BP, administration of inotropes and any intra-operative complications.

There was no difference between treatment groups in the pre-study left ventricular ejection fraction (mean (S.D.); 54.9 (13.8)% versus 55.6 (13.2)%, quinapril versus placebo, respectively), or 3 months after surgery (58.1 (13.6)%, versus 56.9 (12.6)%, quinapril versus placebo, respectively). Left ventricular ejection fraction 3 months after surgery did not change significantly from pre-treatment in either group (2.8 (10.7)% and 1.5 (10.1)%; quinapril and placebo, respectively). There was no first-dose hypotension (systolic BP < 100 mmHg). The intra-operative BP and the SVR during bypass in the two treatment groups were not significantly different. The ischaemic time (mean = 56 min) and the use of inotropes were the same in both groups and there was no mortality.

Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor treatment before coronary artery bypass graft surgery does not have a significant beneficial effect on left ventricular function following coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibition, administered in addition to anti-anginal therapy, does not cause first-dose hypotension or increase morbidity or mortality and can safely be used in patients with coronary heart disease prior to coronary artery bypass graft surgery.