Low cardiac output syndrome after cardiac surgery: A retrospective analysis

Abstract

Low cardiac output syndrome is a prevalent complication observed after cardiac surgery, related to elevated rates of mortality and morbidity. The study aimed to pinpoint independent risk factors for low cardiac output through the analysis of post-cardiac surgery data. This is a single-centre, two-year retrospective study from January 2021 to December 2022, including all patients admitted to the A1 general intensive care unit for postoperative management of cardiac surgery. Variables from preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data were collected and evaluated with the statistical package for the social sciences, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Overall, the median age was 44 years (22-80), with 60% being female. The prevalence of low cardiac output syndrome after cardiac surgery was 44% (n = 85). Significant risk factors for low cardiac output syndrome were identified: low preoperative left ventricular function (ejection fraction <40%), preoperative atrial fibrillation, impaired preoperative renal function, multiple valve replacement, prolonged extracorporeal circulation, and clamping time. Patients who experienced low cardiac output syndrome had longer hospital stays and a higher incidence of postoperative complications, including atrial fibrillation and kidney injury, as well as a higher mortality rate (7% versus 0%). Identification and treatment of low cardiac output syndrome can improve myocardial recovery and decrease mortality. A better understanding of its physiopathological mechanisms may help develop potential preventive strategies