

Vasoplegia after cardiac surgery
25 snips Aug 29, 2024
Dr. Iqbal Ratnani, an intensivist at the DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, dives into the complexities of vasoplegia, a critical post-cardiac surgery condition. He discusses its refractory nature and the significant mortal risks associated. The conversation shifts to the importance of tailoring mean arterial pressure (MAP) targets, exploring new treatment strategies like hydroxycobalamin. Dr. Ratnani emphasizes the need for individual patient assessment and the future of vasoplegia research, highlighting ongoing trials aiming for better management outcomes.
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Vasoplegia Definition
- Vasoplegia is defined as a profound, uncontrollable vasodilation with persistently low systemic vascular resistance.
- It often presents with normal or high cardiac index, distinguishing it from other forms of shock.
Common Vasoplegia Causes
- While anaphylaxis is a common outpatient example of vasoplegia, sepsis and cardiac surgery are the most frequent inpatient causes.
- Clinicians should be particularly vigilant in patients with renal failure or cirrhosis, as they are also at increased risk.
Vasoplegia and Mortality
- Vasoplegia is an independent risk factor for increased mortality in critically ill patients.
- Studies show it can independently increase mortality by 25% and even double mortality in LVAD patients.