Vasoplegic syndrome following cardiothoracic surgery—review of pathophysiology and update of treatment options

Abstract Vasoplegic syndrome is a common occurrence following cardiothoracic surgery and is characterized as a high-output shock state with poor systemic vascular resistance. The pathophysiology is complex and includes dysregulation of vasodilatory and vasoconstrictive properties of smooth vascular...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Laurence W. Busse, Nicholas Barker, Christopher Petersen
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2020-02-01
Series:Critical Care
Subjects:
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1186/s13054-020-2743-8
Description
Summary:Abstract Vasoplegic syndrome is a common occurrence following cardiothoracic surgery and is characterized as a high-output shock state with poor systemic vascular resistance. The pathophysiology is complex and includes dysregulation of vasodilatory and vasoconstrictive properties of smooth vascular muscle cells. Specific bypass machine and patient factors play key roles in occurrence. Research into treatment of this syndrome is limited and extrapolated primarily from that pertaining to septic shock, but is evolving with the expanded use of catecholamine-sparing agents. Recent reports demonstrate potential benefit in novel treatment options, but large clinical trials are needed to confirm.
ISSN:1364-8535