European journal of cardio-thoracic surgery : official journal of the European Association for Cardio-thoracic Surgery
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Eur J Cardiothorac Surg · Oct 2007
Randomized Controlled TrialEfficacy and safety of perioperative infusion of levosimendan in patients with compromised cardiac function undergoing open-heart surgery: importance of early use.
Levosimendan is a promising new inotrope. We investigate the proper time for its infusion during or after open-heart surgery to avoid complications related with low-output syndrome and high dosage of inotropes. ⋯ Levosimendan is a safe and efficient choice in the management of low-output syndrome during and after open-heart surgery. The shortening of hospitalisation and the trend for better outcome confirm its clear superiority when the infusion starts from the operating theatre.