Low-Volume, Single-Shot Crystalloid Cardioplegia is Safe for Isolated Aortic Valve Replacement

Abstract

We report our experience with a low-volume (100 mL), single-shot crystalloid cardioplegia (Cardioplexol) in 61 consecutive patients undergoing isolated aortic valve replacement (AVR). Cardioplexol resulted in immediate cardiac arrest. Intraoperative courses were uneventful. Postoperative markers of myocardial damage, Troponin T and CK-MB levels, were low but steadily increased with longer cross-clamp time. Thirty-day mortality was 3% and all noncardiac. Cardioplexol not only simplifies and speeds up the procedure but also seems to be safe for patients undergoing AVR.

Keywords

heart valve surgery - myocardial protection - aortic valve & root

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