Brain natriuretic peptide in cardiac surgery--influence of aprotinin.

BACKGROUND

This study was designed to examine plasma concentrations of BNP and its correlations to the perioperative course in patients' cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).

METHODS

Sixty-five patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing CPB were examined. Pre, intra and postoperative BNP values and hemodynamic parameters were measured.

RESULTS

The BNP peak correlated neither with any hemodynamic parameters, with the duration of aortic cross-clamping (AXCL), of the operation or with CBP-time, nor with the use of catecholamines. BNP values were significantly higher with the perioperative use of aprotinin.

CONCLUSION

These results confirm that the metabolism and biological activity of BNP may differ following CPB. An additional reason for increased postoperative BNP values might be the use of aprotinin.