Value of C-reactive protein in detecting complications after closed-heart surgery in children.

Measurements of serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and body temperature daily for 14 days after closed-heart surgery were retrospectively reviewed in 198 children with mean age 2.8 years. CRP rose postoperatively, reaching maximum (94 +/- 58 mg/l) on day 2, but declined to near normal within a week. Postoperative complications occurred in 57 children (29%), 13 of whom died. In multivariate regression analysis CRP concentrations were significantly higher in patients with complications than in those with uneventful recovery. Rising patient age was associated with greater elevation of CRP levels. Body temperature was higher in patients with complications. Serial measurements of CRP may be useful in detecting postoperative complications in children who have undergone closed-heart surgery.