[Effects of calcium gluconate and calcium chloride on cardiocirculatory parameters in man (author's transl)].

In 44 patients with congenital or acquired heart disease, functional class II--IV NYHAC, the effects of calcium gluconate (10 ml 10%) and calcium chloride (10 ml 5.5%) on hemodynamics, inotropy and myocardial oxygen consumption were investigated during and immediately after cardiosurgical procedures. There was a significant increase in blood pressure, left ventricular pressure, total systemic resistance, cardiac index, stroke index, peak dp/dt and myocardial oxygen consumption as well as in arterial perfusion pressure during extracorporeal circulation due to i.v.-injection of either one of the drugs. The positive inotropic effects were more pronounced after application of calcium chloride. In emergency situations during anaesthesia or resuscitation, therefore, calcium chloride seems to be of more advantage than calcium gluconate.