Levels of N-terminal-pro-brain natriuretic peptide in congenital heart disease surgery and its value as a predictive biomarker.

Objectives: To explore the value of N-terminal-pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-ProBNP) as a predictive biomarker of postoperative cardiovascular surgery.

Methods: A prospective study of 68 patients (0-15 years), submitted to open-heart surgery was conducted. NT-ProBNP and other biochemical and clinical markers were measured preoperatively and during the first 48 postoperative hours.