N-terminal ProBNP levels can predict cardiac failure after cardiac surgery.

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the preoperative N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) level and the need for the inotropic support in the early postoperative period of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

Methods And Results: The patients were divided into 2 groups: NT-proBNP level<220 pg/ml (group A, n=26) or >220 pg/ml (group B, n=26). The normal value for NT-proBNP level was accepted as <220 pg/ml.

Cardioprotective effect of calcium dobesilate during open-heart surgery.

Objective: The purpose of this double-blind, controlled, prospective randomized study was to investigate the possible effects of the preoperative use of calcium dobesilate (CLS2210) on the biochemical markers of myocardial injury during open-heart surgery, and to determine if it has any myocardial protective effects.

Methods: Twenty-four patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery were included in this study and randomized into two groups. CLS2210 was given orally to 12 patients for 14 days before the operation (CD group), but not to the other 12 patients (control group).