High lactate predicts the failure of intraaortic balloon pumping after cardiac surgery

Abstract

Background. Despite the use of intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) support in complex cardiac surgical patients, morbidity and mortality rates are high. More advanced mechanical cardiovascular support should be considered in those patients who are highly likely to die despite IABP support. We sought to identify early, readily available prognostic markers for patients receiving IABP support. Methods. A retrospective analysis was performed on 39 patients requiring IABP support following cardiac surgery for more than 2 years. The accuracy and predictive ability of multiple potential markers of mortality were statistically assessed. Results. Sixty-seven percent of the patients were successfully wean..