Pulmonary Hypertension in Cardiac Surgery

Andre      Denault; Alain      Deschamps; Jean-Claude      Tardif; Jean      Lambert; Louis      Perrault

Abstract

Pulmonary hypertension is an important prognostic factor in cardiac surgery associated with increased morbidity and mortality. With the aging population and the associated increase severity of illness, the prevalence of pulmonary hypertension in cardiac surgical patients will increase. In this review, the definition of pulmonary hypertension, the mechanisms and its relationship to right ventricular dysfunction will be presented. Finally, pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapeutic and preventive approaches will be presented.

Keywords: Cardiac surgery, pulmonary hypertension, pharmacological therapy