Objective: The pharmacologic properties of Brain natriuretic peptide make it a favourable substance to use after cardiac operations. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of BNP following cardio-pulmonary bypass (CPB).
Method: Nineteen pigs were operated on using CPB. One group received BNP and the control group received placebo. A 30-minute ischemic episode was simulated. Following declamping, BNP was administered by an IV bolus, followed by an infusion for 60 minutes. Hemodynamic and clinical chemistry parameters were documented, as well as the amount of catecholamines.
Results: The Cardiac output and Cardiac Index in the BNP group were significantly higher 60 minutes after ending CPB. Seven of ten animals in the control group needed catecholamines at the end of the experiment, whereas none of the animals in the BNP group did at this juncture. Creatine kinase and Lactate were significantly lower.
Conclusion: BNP is a well-tolerated agent that could present a new treatment option for heart failure following cardiac surgery. Hemodynamics are greatly improved with almost no need for pharmacological support.