[Hemodynamic effects of amrinone, dobutamine and dopamine in the cardiac low output syndrome following open-heart surgery].

Low heart stroke volume syndrome is clinically manifested with hypoperfusion of all body systems. Inotropic or mechanical support is applied. Acute heart failure is one of the most important complications after open heart surgery. Catecholamines have been up to non considered as a therapy of choice for the acute heart failure. Effectiveness of catecholamines could be limited with some side effects. Phosphodiesterase inhibitors promise a new therapeutic approach. PDE III primary act through phosphodiesterase inhibition which leads to a rise of aAPM levels. Thus they show positive inotropic and lusitropic effects, which could be monitored by occlusive pulmonary capillary pressure values. Amrinone is obviously superior to inotropic catecholamines.