Real-Time Three-Dimensional Transoesophageal Echocardiography to Guide Transapical Mitral Valve Repair

Abstract

ables. Cross-clamp times were 157± 66 vs 158± 62min (p= 0.84). Between the 67 pairs, there were no differences in postoperative cardiogenic shock, inotrope usage, intra-aortic balloon pump or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation requirements, cardiac arrhythmias, ventilation time, intensive care unit stay or readmission rates. There was a higher number of returns to operating theatre in the blood cardioplegia group (19 vs 6, p= 0.007), with a trend towards re-operation for bleeding in the blood cardioplegia group (9 vs 2, p= 0.055). Postoperative sodium serum levels were lower in the Custodiol group (138.04± 3.95 vs 140.79± 3.16, p< 0.0001). At 30 days, mortality was similar (2 vs 5, p= 0.44). Conclusions: The use of Custodiol is convenient, simple and at least as safe as warm blood cardioplegia for myocardial protection in complex cardiac operations. A randomised prospective comparison of myocardial protection strategies would be warranted. doi:10.1016/j.hlc.2010.11.023 Real-Time Three-Dimensional Transoesophageal Echocardiography to Guide Transapical Mitral Valve