ABSTRACT Introduction: The coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) data provided by the Brazilian Registry of Cardiovascular Surgeries in Adults (BYPASS) Registry is a Brazilian reality. Objective: To carry out a comparative exercise between the BYPASS Registry published data and data from patients operated on in a randomly chosen period (2013-2015) at Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto da Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMRP-USP). Methods: This is a retrospective study reviewing 173 electronic medical records of CABG patients from the HCFMRP-USP. These data were compared with the BYPASS Registry published data. Chi-square test was used to verify the changes within the prevalence of adequate/inadequate biochemical tests before and after surgery. The sample was divided into groups consistent with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time (CPB ≤ 120 minutes and CPB > 120 minutes). For the complications, prevalence by the chi-square test was adopted. Significant P-values are < 0.05. Results: The comparative operative data of the BYPASS Registry and the HCFMRP-USP patients were quite similar, except for the isolate use of only arterial grafts, which was more frequent on HCFMRP-USP patients (30.8% vs. 15.9%), and the use of radial artery, also more frequent on HCFMRP-USP patients (48.8% vs. 1.1%) Conclusion: The comparative study suggested that the BYPASS Registry should be a reference for CABG quality control.

Abstract Purpose To evaluate the effects of treatment with Indigo Carmine (IC) on rat livers subjected to ischemia-reperfusion injury. Methods The animals were subdivided into 4 groups: 1.SHAM group(SH) - saline; 2.SHAM group with IC-2mg/Kg(SHIC); 3.IR group - rats submitted to ischemia and reperfusion with saline(IR); 4.IR group with IC-2mg/Kg(IRIC). The IR protocol consists of liver exposure and administration of drug or saline intravenously, followed by 60 minutes of ischemia and 15 of reperfusion. Liver samples were collected for biochemical analysis. Results State 3 of mitochondrial respiration showed a significant worsening of the IRIC group in relation to all others. State 4 showed a difference between IRIC and SHIC. The Respiratory Control Ratio showed statistical decrease in IR and IRIC versus Sham. The osmotic swelling showed significant difference between SHxIR; SHICxIRIC and SHxIRIC. There was a significant increase in ALT in the IRIC group in relation to all the others. Concerning the nitrate dosage, there was a decrease in the group treated with IC(IRxIRIC). There was no difference regarding the dosage of Malondialdehyde. Conclusion IC was not able to protect mitochondria from IR injury and proved to be a potentiating agent, acting in synergy with the IR injury promoting damage to the hepatocyte membranes.

Abstract Purpose To compare Fructose-1,6-Bisphosphate (FBP) to Histidine-Tryptophan-Ketoglutarate (HTK) in liver preservation at cold ischemia. Methods Male rats (Sprague-Dawley: 280-340g) divided into three groups (n=7): Control; Fructose-1,6-bisphosphate (FBP); Histidine-Tryptophan-Ketoglutarate (HTK). Animals underwent laparotomy-thoracotomy for perfusion of livers with saline. Livers were removed and deposited into solutions. Mitochondria were isolated to determine State 3 (S3), State 4 (S4), Respiratory Control Ratio (RCR) and Swelling (S). Liver enzymes (AST, ALT, LDH) were determined in solution. At tissue, Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Nitrate (NOx) were determined. All parameters were analyzed at 0.6 and 24 hours of hypothermic preservation. Statistics analysis were made by Mann-Whitney test (p<0.05). Results Regarding ALT, there was a difference between FBP-6h/HTK-6h, lower in HTK. Regarding AST, there was a significant difference between FBP-24h/HTK-24h, lower in FBP. Regarding NOx, there was a difference between 0h and 6h, as well as 0h and 24h for both solutions. Regarding S3, there was a significant difference in 24h compared to Control-0h for both solutions, and a significant difference between FBP-6h/FBP-24h. Regarding S4, there was a difference between Control-0h/HTK-24h and FBP-24h/HTK-24h, higher in HTK. There was a difference between Control-0h/FBP-24h for Swelling, higher in FBP. Conclusion Fructose-1,6-Bisphosphate showed better performance at nitrate and aspartate aminotransferase compared to histidine-tryptophan-ketoglutarate.

Abstract Purpose: To analyze the effect of methylene blue (MB) therapy during the liver ischemia-reperfusion injury (I/R) process. Methods: Thirty-five male Wistar rats were used, (70%) submitted to partial ischemia (IR) or not (NIR) (30%) were obtained from the same animal. These animals were divided into six groups: 1) Sham (SH), 2) Sham with MB (SH-MB); 3) I/R, submitted to 60 minutes of partial ischemia and 15 minutes of reperfusion; 4) NI/R, without I/R obtained from the same animal of group I/R; 5) I/R-MB submitted to I/R and MB and 6) NI/R-MB, without I/R. Mitochondrial function was evaluated. Osmotic swelling of mitochondria as well as the determination of malondialdehyde (MDA) was evaluated. Serum (ALT/AST) dosages were also performed. MB was used at the concentration of 15mg/kg, 15 minutes before hepatic reperfusion. Statistical analysis was done by the Mann Whitney test at 5%. Results: State 3 shows inhibition in all ischemic groups. State 4 was increased in all groups, except the I/R-MB and NI/R-MB groups. RCR showed a decrease in all I/R and NI/R groups. Mitochondrial osmotic swelling showed an increase in all I/R NI/R groups in the presence or absence of MB. About MDA, there was a decrease in SH values in the presence of MB and this decrease was maintained in the I/R group. AST levels were increased in all ischemic with or without MB. Conclusions: The methylene blue was not able to restore the mitochondrial parameters studied. Also, it was able to decrease lipid peroxidation, preventing the formation of reactive oxygen species.

Abstract Early cancer diagnosis, new therapies that increased survival of patients, besides the increasingly elderly population are some factors would be associated with possible cancer dissemination in patients under cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) cardiac surgery. Also, the benefits, and risks, regarding long-term survival, have not yet been established. Therefore, cardiac surgery morbimortality may be superior in patients with cancer disease. Also, immunologic and inflammatory changes secondary to CPB can also increase tumor recurrence. After a brief introduction and CPB immunologic the two main topic subjects included: 1) Combined heart surgery and lung resection and; 2) Possible influence of neoplasia type. After observing the relative literature scarcity, we keep the opinion that “CPB has a modest association with cancer progression” and that “CPB and cancer dissemination should be a logical but unlikely association.”

A proposta da revascularização do miocárdio sem emprego da circulação extracorpórea visa à diminuição da morbimortalidade decorrente dos potenciais efeitos deletérios da circulação extracorpórea. Todavia, embora a maioria dos estudos demonstre que a revascularização sem circulação extracorpórea é factível e forneça resultados similares à operação com circulação extracorpórea, no que se refere à morbimortalidade hospitalar, e pode mesmo diminuir a incidência de alguns eventos, sua eficácia a médio e longo prazo tem sido questionada. Alguns estudos demonstram menor sobrevida em pacientes submetidos à revascularização do miocárdio sem circulação extracorpórea, levantando a hipótese de que a revascularização incompleta e/ou a pior evolução dos enxertos realizados na operação sem circulação extracorpórea em comparação à operação com circulação extracorpórea, observadas em alguns estudos, seriam responsáveis por essa evolução desfavorável.

The main purpose of the off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery is to reduce morbidity and mortality due cardiopulmonary bypass. However, even though many studies have shown that off-pump coronary artery bypass is feasible and provides hospital morbidity and mortality similar to the on-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery, probably better in some aspects, its long-term results have been questioned, since some trials have shown reduced survival with off-pump coronary artery bypass. It is likely that incomplete revascularization and/or poor graft patency with off-pump coronary artery bypass probably are responsible for such unfavorable outcome.

FUNDAMENTO: O papel do estresse oxidativo em pacientes idosos hipertensos com síndrome de apneia-hipopneia obstrutiva do sono (SAHOS) é desconhecido. Objetivo: O objetivo foi avaliar os níveis de Big Endotelina-1 (Big ET-1) e Óxido Nítrico (NO) em pacientes idosos hipertensos com e sem SAHOS moderada a grave. MÉTODOS: Os voluntários permaneceram internados durante 24 horas. Obtivemos os seguintes dados: índice de massa corporal (IMC), Monitorização Ambulatorial da Pressão Arterial (MAPA) - 24 horas, e medicação atual. Sangue arterial foi coletado às 7:00 h e às 19:00 h para determinar níveis plasmáticos de NO e Big ET-1. A oximetria de pulso foi realizada durante o sono. A correlação de Pearson, Spearman e análise de variância univariada foram utilizadas para a análise estatística. RESULTADOS: Foram estudados 25 sujeitos com SAHOS (grupo 1) e 12 sem SAHOS (grupo 2), com idades de 67,0 ± 6,5 anos, 67,8 ± 6,8 anos, respectivamente. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre os grupos em IMC; no número de horas de sono; PA diastólica e sistólica em 24 h; PA de vigília; PA no sono; ou medicamentos usados para controlar a PA. Não foram detectadas diferenças nos níveis de NO e Big ET-1 plasmáticos às 19:00 h, mas às 7:00 h os níveis de de Big ET-1 foram mais altos (p = 0,03). No grupo 1, correlação negativa também foi observada entre a saturação de oxihemoglobina arterial média e a PA sistólica - 24 horas (p = 0,03, r = -0,44), e Big ET-1 (p = 0,04, r = 0,41). CONCLUSÕES: Na comparação entre idosos hipertensos com e sem SAHOS com PA e IMC semelhantes, observou-se níveis mais elevados de Big ET-1 após o sono no grupo SAHOS. Os níveis de NO não diferiram entre os pacientes hipertensos com ou sem SAHOS.

BACKGROUND: The role of oxidative stress in hypertensive elderly patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is unknown. OBJECTIVE: The purpose was to evaluate the levels of big endothelin-1 (Big ET-1) and nitric oxide (NO) in elderly hypertensive patients with and without moderate to severe OSAHS. METHODS: Volunteers were hospitalized for 24 h. We obtained the following data: body mass index (BMI); 24-ambulatory blood pressure monitoring; and current medication. Arterial blood was collected at 7pm and 7am for determining plasma NO and Big ET-1 levels. Pulse oximetry was performed during sleep. Pearson's or Spearman's correlation and univariate analysis of variance were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: We studied 25 subjects with OSAHS (group 1) and 12 without OSAHS (group 2) aged 67.0 ± 6.5 years and 67.8±6.8 years, respectively. No significant differences were observed between the groups in BMI; number of hours of sleep; 24-h systolic and diastolic BPs; awake BP, sleep BP and medications to control BP between groups. No differences were detected in plasma Big ET-1 and NO levels at 19:00 h, but plasma Big ET-1 levels at 7:00 h were higher in group 1 (p =0.03). In group 1, a negative correlation was also observed between the mean arterial oxyhemoglobin saturation level, 24-h systolic BP (p = 0.03, r = -0.44), and Big ET-1 (p = 0.04, r = -0.41). CONCLUSIONS: On comparing elderly hypertensive patients with and without OSAHS having similar BP and BMI, we observed higher Big ET-1 levels After sleep in the OSAHS group. NO levels did not differ between the hypertensive patients with or without OSAHS.

INTRODUÇÃO: Perfusato autólogo retrógrado (PAR) é uma técnica de circulação extracorpórea (CEC) com baixos custos. Estudos anteriores demonstraram que esta técnica reduz a hemodiluição e a necessidade de transfusões de sangue por meio do aumento do hematócrito intraoperatório. OBJETIVO: Avaliar técnica de PAR em relação à CEC técnica padrão (perfusato cristaloide) em pacientes adultos. MÉTODOS: Sessenta e dois pacientes foram aleatoriamente alocados em dois grupos: 1) Grupo PAR (n = 27), constituído por pacientes operados utilizando a técnica de PAR e; 2) Grupo Controle, constituído por pacientes operados utilizando técnica padrão de CEC com cristaloides (n = 35). A PAR foi realizada drenando-se o perfusato cristaloide das linhas arterial e venosa, antes da CEC, para uma bolsa coletora de recirculação. Os principais parâmetros analisados foram: 1) parâmetros hemodinâmicos da CEC; 2) valores de hematócrito e hemoglobina; e; 3) necessidade de transfusões de sangue. RESULTADOS: Observaram-se diferenças estatisticamente significativas de transfusão no intraoperatório e diminuição da hemodiluição em CEC utilizando PAR. Os valores hemodinâmicos durante a CEC foram semelhantes, observando-se tendência de utilização de fluxos menores na CEC dos pacientes do grupo PAR. CONCLUSÃO: O presente estudo foi projetado em pequena escala para avaliar os efeitos do PAR, o que foi demonstrado em relação aos já conhecidos efeitos na diminuição da hemodiluição em CEC e transfusão sanguínea, porém não mostrou vantagens hemodinâmicas em relação à técnica padrão com perfusato cristaloide.

INTRODUCTION: Retrograde autologous priming (RAP) is a cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) method, at low cost. Previous studies have shown that this method reduces hemodilution and blood transfusions needs through increased intra-operative hematocrit. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate RAP method, in relation to standard CPB (crystalloid priming), in adult patients. METHODS: Sixty-two patients were randomly allocated to two groups: 1) Group RAP (n = 27) of patients operated using the RAP and; 2) Control group of patients operated using CPB standard crystalloid method (n = 35). The RAP was performed by draining crystalloid prime from the arterial and venous lines, before CPB, into a collect recycling bag. The main parameters analyzed were: 1) CPB hemodynamic data; 2) Hematocrit and hemoglobin values; 3) The need for blood transfusions. RESULTS: It was observed statistically significant fewer transfusions during surgery and reduced CPB hemodilution using RAP. The CPB hemodynamic values were similar, observing a tendency to use lower CPB flows in the RAP group patients. CONCLUSION: This investigation was designed to be a small-scale pilot study to evaluate the effects of RAP, which were demonstrated concerning the CPB hemodilution and blood transfusions.

Vivenciamos a experiência de reoperar uma paciente por estenose degenerativa de uma prótese biológica de pericárdio bovino, após 24 anos de implante. Essa prótese degenerada havia sido implantada devido à destruição da valva tricúspide por endocardite bacteriana estafilocócica após aborto séptico.

We were challenged by the experience of one patient reoperation for a bioprosthetic bovine pericardium degenerative stenosis, 24 years after implantation. This bioprosthesis was implanted due to tricuspid valve bacterial staphylococcal endocarditis after septic abortion.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se o uso de aprotinina em altas doses hemostáticas pode influenciar as funções miocárdicas, renais e metabólicas em crianças operadas com circulação extracorpórea (CEC). MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo randomizado em crianças de 30 dias a 4 anos de idade, submetidas à correção de cardiopatia congênita acianogênica, com CEC e divididas em dois grupos, um denominado Controle (n=9) e o outro, Aprotinina (n=10). Neste, a droga foi administrada antes e durante a CEC. As disfunções miocárdicas e multiorgânicas foram analisadas por marcadores clínicos e bioquímicos. Foram consideradas significantes as diferenças com P<0,05. RESULTADOS: Os grupos foram semelhantes quanto às variáveis demográficas e intra-operatórias, exceto por maior hemodiluição no Grupo Aprotinina. Não houve benefício quanto aos tempos de ventilação pulmonar mecânica, permanência no Centro de Terapia Intensiva Pediátrica (CTIP) e hospitalar, nem quanto ao uso de inotrópicos e função renal. A relação PaO2/FiO2 (pressão parcial de oxigênio arterial/fração inspirada de oxigênio) apresentou queda significativa com 24h PO, no Grupo Controle. As perdas sanguíneas foram semelhantes nos dois grupos. Os marcadores troponina I cardíaca (cTnI), fração MB da creatinofosfoquinase (CKMB), transaminase glutâmico-oxalacética (TGO) e fração amino-terminal do peptídio natriurético tipo B (NT-proBNP) não apresentaram diferenças marcantes inter-grupos. A lactatemia e acidose metabólica pós-CEC foi maior no Grupo Aprotinina. Não houve complicações tromboembólicas, neurológicas ou de hipersensibilidade com o uso da aprotinina. CONCLUSÃO: A aprotinina em altas doses não influenciou significativamente nos marcadores séricos troponina I e NTproBNP e de função renal, porém foi associado com maior hemodiluição, lactatemia e acidose metabólica.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate if the use of hemostatic high-dose aprotinin seems influence to myocardial, renal and metabolic functions in children submitted to surgical correction with extracorporeal circulation (ECC). Material and Methods A prospective randomized study was conducted on children aged 30 days to 4 years submitted to correction of acyanogenic congenital heart disease with ECC and divided into two groups: Control (n=9) and Aprotinin (n=10). In the Aprotinin Group the drug was administered before and during ECC and the myocardial and multiorgan dysfunctions were analyzed on the basis of clinical and biochemical markers. Differences were considered to be significant when P<0.05. RESULTS: The groups were similar regarding demographic and intraoperative variables, except for a greater hemodilution in the Aprotinin Group. The drug had no benefit regarding time of mechanical pulmonary ventilation, permanence in the pediatric postoperative intensive care unit (ICU) and length of hospitalization, or regarding the use of inotropic drugs and renal function. The partial arterial oxygen pressure/inspired oxygen fraction ratio (PaO2/FiO2) was significantly reduced 24h after surgery in the Control Group. Blood loss was similar for both groups. Cardiac troponin I (cTnI), creatine kinase MB fraction (CKMB), serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and the aminoterminal fraction of natriuretic peptide type B (NT-proBNP) did not differ significantly between groups. Post-ECC blood lactate concentration and metabolic acidosis was more intense in the Aprotinin Group. There were no complications with the use of aprotinin. CONCLUSION: High-dose aprotinin did not significant influence in serum markers troponin I, NT-proBNP and renal function, but did associated with hemodilution, blood lactate concentration and metabolic acidosis more intense.

OBJETIVO: Investigar o possível papel da apoptose em distensões breves de veias safenas humanas em diferentes pressões. MÉTODOS: Segmentos frescos isolados de veia safena humana foram distribuídos em 4 grupos: controle ou distendidos (D) por quinze segundos a 100, 200 e 300 mmHg. O grau de apoptose das caspases 3, 8, 9 e expressão da proteína anti-apoptótica Bcl-2 foram avaliados por imuno-histoquímica. RESULTADOS: Segmentos frescos distendidos isolados de veias safenas humanas apresentaram expressão protéica para apoptose similar às veias controle. No entanto, a expressão de Bcl-2 foi significativamente maior nos segmentos distendidos a 300 mmHg, quando comparados à veia controle. CONCLUSÃO: Estes achados demonstram que segmentos intactos de veias safenas humanas submetidos a distensões em diferentes pressões têm expressão de proteínas apoptóticas similares quando comparados com veias controle nãodistendidas. Por conseguinte, breves distensões comumente realizadas durante a coleta cirúrgica não ativam o processo de apoptose e, provavelmente, não estão envolvidas em mecanismos fisiopatológicos que levam à falência do enxerto

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the possible role of apoptosis on brief distensions of human saphenous veins at different pressures. METHODS: Fresh isolated grafts of human saphenous vein were assigned as control or distended (D) for fifteen seconds at 100, 200 and 300 mmHg. The degree of apoptotic caspases 3, 8, 9 and anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 expression were assessed by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: Fresh isolated segments of distended human saphenous veins presented similar apoptotic protein expression when compared with control veins. However, the Bcl-2 expression was significantly higher in the 300 mmHg distended segments compared with the control vein. CONCLUSION: These findings show that intact segments of human saphenous veins submitted to distensions at different pressures have similar apoptotic proteins expression when compared with non-distended control veins. Therefore, brief distensions commonly performed during surgical harvesting do not trigger apoptosis, and probably are not involved on the physiopathological mechanisms that lead to graft failure

OBJETIVO: Avaliação dos efeitos hemostáticos e plaquetários em crianças submetidas a correção de cardiopatias congênitas acianogênicas com circulação extracorpórea que receberam aprotinina. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo randomizado em crianças de 30 dias a 4 anos de idade, submetidas a correção de cardiopatia congênita acianogênica, com circulação extracorpórea (CEC) e divididas em dois grupos, um denominado Controle (n=9) e o outro, Aprotinina (n=10). Neste, a droga foi administrada antes e durante a CEC. A disfunção hemostática foi analisada por marcadores clínicos e bioquímicos. Foram consideradas significantes as diferenças com P<0,05. RESULTADOS: Os grupos foram semelhantes quanto às variáveis demográficas e intra-operatórias, exceto por maior hemodiluição no Grupo Aprotinina. Não houve benefício quanto aos tempos de ventilação pulmonar mecânica, permanência no centro de terapia intensiva pediátrica e hospitalar, nem quanto ao uso de inotrópicos e função renal. Ocorreu preservação da concentração plaquetária com a Aprotinina, enquanto no grupo Controle houve plaquetopenia desde o início da CEC. As perdas sanguíneas foram semelhantes nos dois grupos. Não houve complicações com o uso da Aprotinina. CONCLUSÃO: A Aprotinina preservou quantitativamente as plaquetas em crianças com cardiopatia congênita acianogênica

OBJECTIVE: Evaluation of the hemostatic and platelets effects in children with acyanogenic congenital heart disease undergone on-pump surgery who received aprotinin. METHODS: A prospective randomized study was performed on children aged 30 days to 4 years who had undergone correction of acyanogenic congenital heart disease using cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and were divided into two groups: Control (n=9) and Aprotinin (n=10). In the Aprotinin Group the drug was administered before and during CPB and the hemostatic dysfunction was analyzed by clinical and biochemical markers. Differences were considered to be significant when P<0.05. RESULTS: The groups were similar regarding demographic and intraoperative variables, except for a greater hemodilution in the Aprotinin Group. The drug presented no benefit regarding time of mechanical pulmonary ventilation, stay in the postoperative intensive care unit and hospital, or regarding the use of inotropic drugs and renal function. Platelet concentration was preserved with the use of Aprotinin, whereas thrombocytopenia occurred in the Control Group since the initiation of CPB. Blood loss was similar for both groups. There were no complications with the use of Aprotinin. CONCLUSION: Aprotinin quantitatively preserved the blood platelets in children with acyanogenic congenital heart disease

FUNDAMENTO: Em nosso meio as próteses valvares biológicas predominam, considerando-se as dificuldades relacionadas à anticoagulação, mesmo em pacientes jovens, a despeito da necessidade de repetidas operações devido à degeneração das próteses biológicas. OBJETIVO: Apresentar a evolução em médio prazo de pacientes submetidos à substituição da valva mitral ou aórtica por prótese valvar mecânica St. Jude. MÉTODOS: Foi analisada retrospectivamente a evolução dos pacientes operados entre janeiro de 1995 e dezembro de 2003 e seguidos até dezembro de 2006. RESULTADOS: Cento e sessenta e oito pacientes receberam prótese valvar mitral e 117, aórtica. A idade média de ambos os grupos foi de 45 anos. Entre os mitrais, 75% tinham até 55 anos e 65% eram mulheres. Entre os aórticos, 66% tinham até 55 anos e 69% eram homens. Considerando-se apenas mortes relacionadas às próteses valvares, a sobrevida foi de 85,6% para os mitrais e de 88,7% para os aórticos (p=0,698). Entre os mitrais, 97% estavam livres de reoperação, e entre os aórticos 99% (p=0,335). Quanto aos eventos tromboembólicos, a porcentagem de pacientes livres foi de 82% entre os mitrais e de 98% entre os aórticos (p=0,049), e para os eventos hemorrágicos foi de 71% e 86% respectivamente (0,579). Quanto à ocorrência de endocardite, 98 % entre os mitrais e 99% entre os aórticos estavam livres ao final de 10 anos (p=0,534). CONCLUSÃO: Nossa experiência com próteses metálicas St. Jude em uma população predominantemente jovem confirma o bom desempenho desta prótese, em acordo com outras experiências publicadas.

BACKGROUND: In our country, the biological valvular prostheses predominate, considering the difficulties related to anticoagulation, even in young patients, in spite of the need for repeated operations due to the degeneration of the bioprostheses. OBJECTIVES: To report our consecutive series of recipients of isolated St Jude Medical mechanical valve prosthesis in the mitral (MVR) or aortic (AVR) position. METHODS: Data from patients operated between January 1995 and December 2003 were revised in order to determine patient survival and prosthesis-related events up to December 2006. RESULTS: One hundred sixty eight patients had MVR and 117 had AVR. In the MVR cohort, the mean age was 45 years, 75% were 55 years old or younger, and 65% were females. In the ARV cohort, the mean age was 45 years, 66% were 55 years old or younger and 69% were males. Operative mortality for AVR and MVR was 7% and 7.5%, respectively. Freedom from late mortality was 81.8% at 10 years for MVR and 83% for AVR (p=0.752). Freedom from valve-related death at 10 years for the MVR cohort and AVR was 85.6% and 88.7%, respectively (p=0.698). In the MVR cohort, the freedom from reoperation was 97% and 99% in the AVR cohort (p=0.335). Freedom from thromboembolic events was 82% in the MVR cohort and 98% in the AVR cohort (p=0.049). Freedom from bleeding was 71% in the MVR cohort and 86% n the AVR cohort (0.579). Freedom from endocarditis was 98% in the MVR cohort and 99% in the AVR cohort (p=0.534). CONCLUSIONS: This series of predominantly young adult patients undergoing isolated MVR and AVR with the St Jude Medical mechanical prosthesis confirms the good performance of this valve prosthesis in agreement with previous reports.

FUNDAMENTO: En nuestro medio, las prótesis valvulares biológicas predominan, teniendo en cuenta las dificultades relacionadas a la anticoagulación, incluso en pacientes jóvenes, pese a la necesidad de repetidas operaciones debido a la degeneración de las prótesis biológicas. OBJETIVO: Presentar la evolución en medio plazo de pacientes sometidos a la sustitución de la válvula mitral o aórtica por prótesis valvular mecánica St. Jude. MÉTODOS: Se analizó retrospectivamente la evolución de los pacientes operados entre enero de 1995 y diciembre de 2003 y seguidos hasta diciembre de 2006. RESULTADOS: Un total de 168 pacientes recibió prótesis valvular mitral y otros 117, aórtica. La edad promedio de ambos grupos fue de 45 años. Entre los mitrales, el 75% tenía hasta 55 años y el 65% era mujeres. Entre los aórticos, el 66% tenía hasta 55 años y el 69% era de varones. Teniendo en cuenta solamente las muertes relacionadas a las prótesis valvulares, la sobrevida fue del 85,6% para los mitrales y del 88,7% para los aórticos (p=0.698). Entre los mitrales, el 97% estaba libre de reoperación, y entre los aórticos el 99% (p=0,335) lo estaba. En cuanto a los eventos tromboembólicos, el porcentaje de pacientes libres fue del 82% entre los mitrales y del 98% entre los aórticos (p=0,049), y para los eventos hemorrágicos fue del 71% y el 86% respectivamente (0,579). En cuanto a la ocurrencia de endocarditis, el 98 % entre los mitrales y el 99% entre los aórticos estaba libre al final de 10 años (p=0.534). CONCLUSIÓN: Nuestra experiencia con prótesis metálicas St. Jude en una población predominantemente joven confirma el buen desempeño de esta prótesis, según otras experiencias publicadas.

OBJETIVO: Pacientes septuagenários ou mais idosos necessitando de cirurgia cardíaca vêm crescendo em todo mundo. O objetivo do estudo é conhecer melhor esse grupo de pacientes e determinar fatores de risco para morbidade operatória. MÉTODOS: Revisamos 783 pacientes submetidos a operações cardíacas valvares e de revascularização do miocárdio isoladas ou associadas no período de 2002 a 2007. Tais pacientes foram divididos em "grupo <70 anos de idade" e "grupo >70 anos de idade". RESULTADOS: Cento e noventa e sete pacientes tinham 70 anos ou mais de idade (idade média 74,1 ± 3,9) e 61% eram do sexo masculino. No grupo > 70 anos, foi significativamente maior o número de pacientes portadores de doença vascular periférica (9% versus 5%, P= 0,019), doença carotídea (5% versus 2%, P= 0,026) e angina instável (17% versus 9%, P= 0,018). Em ambos os grupos, a revascularização do miocárdio foi mais freqüente. No grupo > 70 anos, 41% dos pacientes tiveram ao menos um efeito adverso, versus 22% do grupo <70 anos (P<0,001). Aincidência de sangramento pós-operatório, complicações pulmonares, mediastinite, necessidade de vasopressores, disfunção renal e acidente vascular cerebral foi significativamente maior no grupo > 70 anos. A mortalidade foi maior no grupo > 70 anos (19% versus 8,5%, P<0,001). A regressão logística revelou que DPOC (OR: 8,6), FE (OR: 7,1), operação não eletiva (OR: 17,2) e tempo de circulação extracorpórea > 120 min (OR: 3,4) são preditores de mortalidade hospitalar no grupo estudado. CONCLUSÕES: A mortalidade hospitalar em septuagenários ou mais idosos nas operações de revascularização miocárdica e valvares isoladas ou associadas é maior que nos pacientes mais jovens.

OBJECTIVES: Septuagenarians or older patients needing heart surgery has increased in whole world. The objective of study is to know the characteristics of this group of patients and determine the risk factors for operative morbidity. METHODS: We revised the medical records of 783 patients undergone heart valve surgery, myocardial revascularization or both between 2002 and 2007. The patients were divided in "control group" (<70 years) "septuagenarian group" (70 years old or more). RESULTS: One hundred ninety seven patients were at least 70 years old (mean age 74.1±3.9) and 61% were male. In the control group the mean age was 52.1±11.7 and 54% were male. In the septuagenarians group it was significantly higher the proportion of patients suffering from peripheral vascular disease (9% versus 5%, P=0.019), carotid artery obstruction (5% versus 2%, P=0.026), unstable angina (17% versus 9%, P=0.018). In both groups coronary artery bypass surgery prevailed. In the septuagenarian group 41% of the patients had a least one morbid event, versus 22% of the patients in the control group (P<0.001). Postoperative bleeding, pulmonary complications, mediastinitis, need of vasopressors, renal dysfunction and strokes were significantly higher in the septuagenarian group. The mortality was higher in the septuagenarian (19% versus 8.5%, P<0.001). The logistic regression revealed that COPD (OR: 8.6), EF < 35% (OR: 7,1), non-elective operation (OR: 17,2) and cardiopulmonary bypass time >120 min (OR: 3,4) were predictive of hospital mortality in septuagenarian or older patients. CONCLUSIONS: The hospital mortality of septuagenarians or elderly is significantly higher than younger patients.

A presente revisão tem por objetivo ressaltar alguns aspectos pouco discutidos da circulação extracorpórea (CEC), levando-se em consideração fisiologia, fisiopatologia e algumas novas tecnologias de perfusão. Assim, alguns aspectos, até certo ponto filosóficos, motivaram a elaboração dessa revisão: a) Preservar e atualizar os conhecimentos do cirurgião sobre a CEC, pelo simples fato de manter a sua liderança pedagógica sobre a sua equipe; b) Questionar se pacientes idosos e diabéticos pelas suas características individuais, assim como adotado para crianças, talvez merecessem protocolos mais apropriados; c) Questionar a reação inflamatória sistêmica causada pela exposição do sangue à superfície não endotelizada do circuito de CEC diante da importância crescente do contato do sangue com a ferida cirúrgica; d) Em relação ao tratamento da síndrome vasoplégica, o azul de metileno continua sendo a melhor opção terapêutica, embora, muitas vezes não seja eficiente pela existência de uma "janela terapêutica" embasada na dinâmica da ação da guanilato ciclase (saturação e síntese "de novo") e; finalmente, e) Razão da escolha do título, ressaltando que, em seus moldes atuais, a CEC seria conseqüência do empirismo, arte, ou da ciência? A mensagem final vem com a convicção de que tanto o empirismo, a arte e a ciência são muito fortes em se tratando da CEC.

The aim of the present review is to highlight some less discussed aspects of the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), taking into consideration the physiology, physiopathology, and some new technologies of perfusion. Thus, some points, to a certain extent philosophical, have motivated this revision: a) To preserve and update the surgeon knowledge regarding CPB, even to keep his/her pedagogical leadership on his/her surgical team; b) To question if elderly and diabetic patients, as a result of their individual characteristics deserve more appropriate protocols similar to those adopted for children; c) One third aspect would be the questioning of the systemic inflammatory reaction caused by the blood exposure to CPB non-endothelized circuit surface, in face of the increasing importance of blood contact with the surgical wound; d) In relation to the treatment of the vasoplegic syndrome, methylene blue continues being the best therapeutical option, even so, many times are not efficient on account of a highly probable existence of a "therapeutical window" based on the guanylate cyclase dynamics of action (saturation and synthesis "de novo") and; finally, e) The reason of the title, highlighting that based on its current patterns, would the CPB be an outcome of empiricism, art, or science? The bottom line of this article carries the certainty of that as much as the empiricism, art, and science are highly related to CPB.