Pro: early endotracheal extubation is preferable to late extubation in patients following coronary artery surgery

Ultra-fast track extubation protocol following cardiovascular surgery: Predictors of failure and outcomes

OBJECTIVES

Identifying independent predictor factors of failure of ultra-fast track (UFT) extubation and to compare in-hospital outcomes with UFT extubation versus fast track (FT) extubation after cardiovascular surgery in adults.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 1498 consecutive patients aged over 18 years-old undergoing cardiovascular surgery at a single institution. Between December 2014 and December 2016, FT extubation was used (N = 713) while, between December 2016 and December 2018, all patients were preoperatively considered suitable for UFT extubation (N = 785). In this instance, a standardized anaesthetic protocol was applied in all cases. The decision to not extubate in the operating room (OR) was based on intraoperative haemodynamic and ventilation.

RESULTS

Extubation in the OR was possible in 699 (89%) patients. Significant independent predictors factors of UFT extubation failure were: preoperative NYHA class III-IV, myocardial infarction within two days prior to surgery, preoperative intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation, urgent/emergent surgery, intraoperative transfusion of platelets and intraoperative inotropic and vasopressor support. UFT extubation was associated with lower rates of cardiovascular complications such as congestive cardiac insufficiency (OR: 1,57; 95% CI: 1,13-2,19; p = 0,008) and new-onset postoperatory atrial fibrillation (OR: 1,40; 95% CI: 1,06-1,86; p = 0,020). Patient extubated in the OR presented lower risk of overall complications, shorter intensive care unit stay and higher short-term survival, although, no statistically significance was found when performing the multivariate adjustment.

CONCLUSIONS

A routine immediate extubation in the OR following adult cardiovascular surgery is a feasible and safe practice, associated with low cardiovascular morbidity.

Impact of fast-track management on adult cardiac surgery: clinical and hospital outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To compare the impact of two fast-track strategies regarding the extubation time and removal of invasive mechanical ventilation in adults after cardiac surgery on clinical and hospital outcomes.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study with patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Patients were classified according to the extubation time as the Control Group (extubated 6 hours after admission to the intensive care unit, with a maximum mechanical ventilation time of 18 hours), Group 1 (extubated in the operating room after surgery) and Group 2 (extubated within 6 hours after admission to the intensive care unit). The primary outcomes analyzed were vital capacity on the first postoperative day, length of hospital stay, and length of stay in the intensive care unit. The secondary outcomes were reintubation, hospital-acquired pneumonia, sepsis, and death.

RESULTS

For the 223 patients evaluated, the vital capacity was lower in Groups 1 and 2 compared to the Control (p = 0.000 and p = 0.046, respectively). The length of stay in the intensive care unit was significantly lower in Groups 1 and 2 compared to the Control (p = 0.009 and p = 0.000, respectively), whereas the length of hospital stay was lower in Group 1 compared to the Control (p = 0.014). There was an association between extubation in the operating room (Group 1) with reintubation (p = 0.025) and postoperative complications (p = 0.038).

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing fast-track management with extubation within 6 hours had shorter stays in the intensive care unit without increasing postoperative complications and death. Patients extubated in the operating room had a shorter hospital stay and a shorter stay in the intensive care unit but showed an increase in the frequency of reintubation and postoperative complications.

Behavior of a dual closed-loop controller of propofol and remifentanil guided by the bispectral index for postoperative sedation of adult cardiac surgery patients: a preliminary open study

A dual-loop controller permits the automated titration of propofol and remifentanil during anesthesia; it has never been used in intensive care after cardiac surgery. The goal of this preliminary study was to determine the efficacy of this controller to provide postoperative sedation in 19 adult cardiac surgery patients with a Bispectral Index target of 50. Results are presented as numbers (percentages) or medians [25th-75th percentiles]. The sedation period lasted 139 min [89-205] during which the Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale was at - 5 and the Behavioral Pain Scale score at three points for all patients and observation times but one (82 out of 83 assessments). Sedation time in the range 40-60 for the Bispectral Index was 87% [57-95]; one patient had a period of electrical silence defined as Suppression Ratio at least > 10% for more than 60 s. The time between the end of infusions and tracheal extubation was 84 min [63-129]. The Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale was 0 [0-0], 0 [- 1 to 0], and 0 [0-0] respectively during the 3 h following extubation while the verbal numerical pain scores were 6 [4.5-7], 5 [4-6], and 2 [0-5]. Mean arterial pressure decreased during sedation requiring therapeutic interventions, mainly vascular filling in 15 (79%) patients. Automated sedation device was discontinued in two patients for hemodynamic instability. No patient had awareness of the postoperative sedation period. Dual closed-loop can provide postoperative sedation after cardiac surgery but the choice of the depth of sedation should take into account the risk of hypotension.

Comparison of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation and Parasternal Block for Postoperative Pain Management after Cardiac Surgery

Background. Parasternal block and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) have been demonstrated to produce effective analgesia and reduce postoperative opioid requirements in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Objectives. To compare the effectiveness of TENS and parasternal block on early postoperative pain after cardiac surgery. Methods. One hundred twenty patients undergoing cardiac surgery were enrolled in the present randomized, controlled prospective study. Patients were assigned to three treatment groups: parasternal block, intermittent TENS application, or a control group. Results. Pain scores recorded 4 h, 5 h, 6 h, 7 h, and 8 h postoperatively were lower in the parasternal block group than in the TENS and control groups. Total morphine consumption was also lower in the parasternal block group than in the TENS and control groups. It was also significantly lower in the TENS group than in the control group. There were no statistical differences among the groups regarding the extubation time, rescue analgesic medication, length of intensive care unit stay, or length of hospital stay. Conclusions. Parasternal block was more effective than TENS in the management of early postoperative pain and the reduction of opioid requirements in patients who underwent cardiac surgery through median sternotomy. This trial is registered with Clinicaltrials.gov number NCT02725229.

Intensive care unit management of transcatheter aortic valve recipients

Severe aortic stenosis is an increasingly prevalent disease that continues to be associated with significant mortality. Transcatheter aortic valve replacements have been used as an alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement in high-risk patients with multiple comorbidities. In this review, we discuss postoperative considerations pertinent to the successful management of these complicated patients in the intensive care unit.

Perioperative ventilatory strategies in cardiac surgery

Recent data promote the utilization of prophylactic protective ventilation even in patients without acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and especially after cardiac surgery. The implementation of specific perioperative ventilatory strategies in patients undergoing cardiac surgery can improve both respiratory and extra-pulmonary outcomes. Protective ventilation is not limited to tidal volume reduction. The major components of ventilatory management include assist-controlled mechanical ventilation with low tidal volumes (6-8 mL kg(-1) of predicted body weight) associated with higher positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), limitation of fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), ventilation maintenance during cardiopulmonary bypass, and finally recruitment maneuvers. In order for such strategies to be fully effective, they should be integrated into a multimodal approach beginning from the induction and continuing over the postoperative period.

Cardiac critical care after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a new therapy for severe aortic stenosis now available in the United States. Initial patients eligible for TAVR are defined by high operative risk, with advanced age and multiple comorbidities. Following TAVR, patients experience acute hemodynamic changes and several possible complications, including hypotension, vascular injury, anemia, stroke, new-onset atrial fibrillation, conduction disturbances and kidney injury, requiring an acute phase of intensive care. Alongside improvements in TAVR technology and technique, improvements in care after TAVR may contribute to improved outcomes. This review presents an approach to post-TAVR critical care and identifies directions for future research.

Fast-track practice in cardiac surgery: results and predictors of outcome

OBJECTIVES

Various studies have shown different parameters as independent risk factors in predicting the success of fast-track postoperative management in cardiac surgery. In the present study, we evaluated our 7-year experience with the fast-track protocol and investigated the preoperative predictors of successful outcome.

METHODS

Between 2004 and 2010, 5367 consecutive patients undergoing cardiac surgery were preoperatively selected for postoperative admission in the postanaesthesia care unit (PACU) and were included in this study. These patients were then transferred to the ordinary ward on the same day of the operation. The primary end-point of the study was the success of the PACU protocol, defined as discharge to the ward on the same day, no further admission to the intensive care unit and no operative mortality. Logistic regression analysis was performed to detect the independent risk factors for failure of the PACU pathway.

RESULTS

Of 11,895 patients undergoing cardiac surgery, 5367 (45.2%) were postoperatively admitted to the PACU. The protocol was successful in 4510 patients (84.0%). Using the multivariate logistic regression analysis, older age and left ventricular dysfunction were found to be independent risk factors for failure of the PACU protocol [odds ratio of 0.98/year (0.97-0.98) and 0.31 (0.14-0.70), respectively].

CONCLUSIONS

Our fast-track management, called the PACU protocol, is efficient and safe for the postoperative management of selected patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Age and left ventricular dysfunction are significant preoperative predictors of failure of this protocol.

ICU Cutilization by Cardio-Thoracic Patients in a Nigerian Teaching Hospital: Any Role for HDU?

Background:

The underlying pathological conditions in cardio-thoracic patients, anesthetic and operative interventions often lead to complex physiological interactions that necessitate ICU care. Our objectives were to determine the intensive care unit (ICU) utilization by cardio-thoracic patients in our centre, highlight the common indications for admission; and evaluate the interventions provided in the ICU and the factors that determined outcome.

Materials and Methods:

The intensive care unit (ICU) records of University College Hospital, Ibadan for a period of 2 years (October 2007 to September 2009) were reviewed. Data of cardio-thoracic patients were extracted and used for analysis. Information obtained included the patient demographics, indications for admission, interventions offered in the ICU and the outcome.

Results:

A total of 1, 207 patients were managed in the ICU and 206 cardio-thoracic procedures were carried out during the study period. However, only 96 patients were admitted into the ICU following cardio-thoracic procedures, accounting for 7.9% of ICU admissions and 46.6% of cardio-thoracic procedures done within the review period. The mean length of stay and ventilation were 5.71 ± 5.26 and 1.30 ± 2.62 days. The most significant predictor of outcome was endotracheal intubation (P = 0.001) and overall mortality was 15%.

Conclusion:

There is a high utilization of the ICU by cardio-thoracic patients in our review and post-operative care was the main indication for admission. Some selected cases may be managed in the HDU to reduce the burden on ICU resources. We opine that when endotracheal intubation is to continue in the ICU, a 1:1 patient ratio should be instituted.

Prolonged ventilation post cardiac surgery--tips and pitfalls of the prediction game

Background

Few available models aim to identify patients at risk of prolonged ventilation after cardiac surgery. We compared prediction models developed in ICU in two adjacent periods of time, when significant changes were observed both in population characteristics and the perioperative management.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of two cohorts of patients in our department in two subsequent time periods (July 2007 - December 2008, n = 2165; January 2009 - July 2010, n = 2192). The study was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee and the individual patient consent was not required. Patients were divided with regard to ventilation time of more or less than 48 hours. Preoperative and procedure-related variables for prolonged ventilation were identified and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed separately for each cohort.

Results

Most recent patients were older, with more co-morbidities, more frequently undergoing off-pump surgery. At the beginning of 2009 we also changed the technique of postoperative ventilation. Percentage of patients with prolonged ventilation decreased from 5.7% to 2.4% (p < 0.0001).Preoperative and procedure-related variables for prolonged ventilation were identified. Prediction models for prolonged ventilation were different for each cohort. Most recent significant predictors were: aortic aneurysm surgery (OR 12.9), emergency surgery (OR 5.3), combined procedures (OR 5.1), valve procedures (OR 3.2), preoperative renal dysfunction (OR 2.9) and preoperative stroke or TIA (OR 2.8).

Conclusions

Prediction models for postoperative ventilation should be regularly updated, particularly when major changes are noted in patients' demographics and surgical or anaesthetic technique.

Early extubation in tetralogy of Fallot patients after complete repair

AIM

To document the feasibility of early extubation and to know the effect of age, weight, and post-operative right ventricle/left ventricle ratio in early extubation in intracardiac repair for tetralogy of Fallot.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a prospective study of 76 consecutive patients undergoing intracardiac repair between January, 2010 and April, 2010. The patients were compared between duration of ventilation with age, weight, and post-operative left ventricle/right ventricle ratio.

RESULTS

In the age group less than 10 years, 47 patients were extubated within 4 hours and 12 after 4 hours. In the age group of 10-20 years, eight patients were extubated within 4 hours and seven patients after 4 hours. In the more than 20 years category, one patient was extubated within 4 hours and the other after 4 hours. In the weight category less than 10 kilograms, 17 patients were extubated within 4 hours and seven patients after 4 hours. In the 10-20 kilogram category, 27 patients were extubated before 4 hours and four patients after 4 hours. In the more than 20-kilogram category, 12 patients were extubated before 4 hours and nine patients after 4 hours. Where the ratio was less than 0.5, 47 patients were extubated within 4 hours and 14 patients after 4 hours. Where the ratio was greater than 0.5, nine patients were extubated within 4 hours and six patients after 4 hours.

CONCLUSION

There was no correlation between duration of ventilation with age, weight, and right ventricle/left ventricle ratio. Early extubation in patients after intracardiac repair in tetralogy of Fallot is safe and effective.

Health-related quality of life after fast-track treatment results from a randomized controlled clinical equivalence trial

PURPOSE

This randomized clinical equivalence trial was designed to evaluate health-related quality of life (HRQoL) after fast-track treatment for low-risk coronary artery bypass (CABG) patients.

METHODS

Four hundred and ten CABG patients were randomly assigned to undergo either short-stay intensive care treatment (SSIC, 8 h of intensive care stay) or control treatment (care as usual, overnight intensive care stay). HRQoL was measured at baseline and 1 month, and one year after surgery using the multidimensional index of life quality (MILQ), the EQ-5D, the Beck Depression Inventory and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory.

RESULTS

At one month after surgery, no statistically significant difference in overall HRQoL was found (MILQ-score P-value=.508, overall MILQ-index P-value=.543, EQ-5D VAS P-value=.593). The scores on the MILQ-domains, physical, and social functioning were significantly higher at one month postoperatively in the SSIC group compared to the control group (P-value=.049; 95%CI: 0.01-2.50 and P-value=.014, 95% CI: 0.24-2.06, respectively). However, these differences were no longer observed at long-term follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

According to our definition of clinical equivalence, the HRQoL of SSIC patients is similar to patients receiving care as usual. Since safety and the financial benefits of this intervention were demonstrated in a previously reported analysis, SSIC can be considered as an adequate fast-track intensive care treatment option for low-risk CABG patients.

Optimizing early extubation after coronary surgery

Early extubation after isolated coronary artery bypass surgery was assessed retrospectively in 545 of 779 patients treated by the same surgical team over one year. All underwent extubation within 10 hr of arrival at the cardiothoracic intensive care unit: 343 in < 6 hr and 202 in 6-10 hr. Operative mortality was 2.2%. Group comparisons revealed that patients who had earlier extubation were younger (61 vs. 66 years; p < 0.001), more likely to be male (72.5% vs. 61.3%; p < 0.05), with a shorter aortic crossclamp time (49.2 +/- 15.0 vs. 53.3 +/- 14.0 min; p < 0.05), cardiopulmonary bypass time (65 +/- 18.4 vs. 72.2 +/- 19.2 min; p < 0.05), intensive care unit stay (18.8 +/- 5.6 vs. 22.4 +/- 3.2 hr; p < 0.05) and postoperative hospital stay (5.2 +/- 2.2 vs. 6.0 +/- 2.4 days; p = 0.01). Extubation < 6 hr after cardiopulmonary bypass may accelerate recovery. The finding of no significant differences in clinical parameters between the groups suggests that efforts to further reduce the time to extubation might be worthwhile.

Influence of fast-track recovery after coronary artery bypass in the elderly

We retrospectively analyzed 711 consecutive patients who had isolated coronary artery bypass grafting between January 2000 and December 2004; 572 younger patients (< 70 years) were compared with 139 elderly patients (> or = 70 years). A rapid recovery program based on an anesthetic protocol for early extubation was applied to all patients. The overall hospital mortality rate was 3.3% for the younger group and 4.3% for the elderly group. There were no significant differences in rates of hospital mortality and postoperative complications between the two groups. Early extubation was achieved in significantly more younger (71%) compared to elderly (57%) patients. Rapid recovery with discharge before the 5(th) postoperative day was achieved in 19% of the elderly compared to 48% of the younger patients. Patients in the younger group were discharged from hospital earlier (6.8 +/- 0.3 vs 8.0 +/- 8.5 days). Application of fast-track treatment in an elderly population appears to be a safe and effective approach if used on a selective basis when criteria for early extubation are met.

Association between vasopressor dependence and early outcome in patients after cardiac surgery

Arterial hypotension with vasopressor dependence is a major problem after cardiac surgery. We evaluated the early postoperative course of 1558 consecutive patients scheduled for cardiac surgery, and compared the outcome of patients with and without vasopressor dependence (defined as the need for > 0.1 microg x kg(-1) x h(-1) noradrenaline for > 3 h in the face of normovolaemia). Vasopressor dependence was diagnosed in 424 patients (27%) and was associated with a higher incidence of postoperative renal failure (67 (15.7%) vs 7 (0.6%), respectively; p < 0.0001), a longer duration of ventilation (median IQR [range]) 14 (8-26 [6-39]) h vs 8 (5-11 [4-32]) h; p < 0.0001), a greater need for red cell transfusion (3 (1-5 [0-10]) units vs 1 (0-2 [0-4]) units; p < 0.001) and a longer length of stay in the ICU (4 (2-6 [2-9] days) vs 2 (1-3 [1-6] days; p < 0.001). Vasopressor dependence could be predicted from a combination of factors, including pre-operative ejection fraction < 37%, cardiopulmonary bypass lasting > 94 min, and postoperative interleukin-6 > 837 pg x ml(-1).

Single dose parecoxib significantly improves ventilatory function in early extubation coronary artery bypass surgery: a prospective randomized double blind placebo controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Parecoxib, a cyclo oxygenase-2 inhibiting non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, has been widely used for postoperative analgesia. Our aim was to quantify the benefit of a single dose after coronary artery bypass grafting.

METHODS

The investigation was carried out as a randomized double blind placebo controlled study. A single i.v. dose of parecoxib 40 mg or placebo was given at closure of sternotomy. No opioid other than morphine was given in the first 24 postoperative hours. Pain was assessed using both a Visual Analogue Score (1-10), and the amount of morphine used via a morphine patient controlled analgesia pump. Creatinine clearance was measured before and after operation from 24 h urine collections. After a global announcement by Pfizer that paracoxib was 'contraindicated in patients with ischaemic heart disease' further recruitment was suspended and the collected data from 40 patients were analysed.

RESULTS

Twenty-one patients received parecoxib and 19 received placebo. Amongst those who received parecoxib, there was a highly significant sparing of rescue medication before tracheal extubation (P=0.004) compared with placebo, and an overall 35% morphine sparing effect during the first 6 h post extubation after correction for the variability in extubation time (P=0.037). Respiration, as measured by arterial carbon dioxide tension at the time of extubation, was significantly better in the parecoxib group (P=0.045). Significantly more furosemide was given for postoperative oliguria in those patients who received parecoxib (P=0.036). After correcting for differences in diuretic usage and fluid balance, parecoxib was associated with a significant increase in plasma creatinine (P=0.041).

CONCLUSION

A single dose of parecoxib has a significant opioid sparing effect in the first 6 h after coronary artery bypass grafting which resulted in significantly improved ventilation with mild elevation of plasma creatinine within normal limits.

Short-stay intensive care after coronary artery bypass surgery: Randomized clinical trial on safety and cost-effectiveness*

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the safety and cost-effectiveness of short-stay intensive care (SSIC) treatment for low-risk coronary artery bypass patients.

DESIGN

Randomized clinical equivalence trial.

SETTING

University Hospital Maastricht, the Netherlands.

PATIENTS

Low-risk coronary artery bypass patients.

INTERVENTIONS

A total of 600 patients were randomly assigned to undergo either SSIC treatment (8 hrs of intensive care treatment) or control treatment (care as usual, overnight intensive care treatment).

MEASUREMENTS

The primary outcome measures were intensive care readmissions and total hospital stay. The secondary outcome measures were total hospital costs, quality of life, postoperative morbidity, and mortality. Hospital costs consisted of the cost of hospital admission or admissions and outpatient costs.

MAIN RESULTS

The difference in intensive care readmission between the two groups of 1.13% was very small and not significantly different (p = .241; 95% confidence interval, -0.9% to 2.9%). The total hospital stay (p = .807; 95% confidence interval, 1.2 to -0.4) and postoperative morbidity were comparable between the groups. The SSIC group's quality of life improved more compared with the control group's quality of life (p = .0238; 95% confidence interval, 0.0012 to 0.0464). The total hospital costs for SSIC were significantly lower (95% confidence interval, -1,581 to -174) compared with those for the control group (4,625 and 5,441, respectively). The estimated incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (cost/delta quality-adjusted life months) thus showed the dominance of SSIC. Bootstrap and sensitivity analyses confirm the robustness of the study findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with usual care, SSIC is a safe and cost-effective approach. SSIC can be considered as an alternative for conventional postoperative intensive care treatment for low-risk coronary artery bypass graft patients.

Combination of Intrathecal Morphine and Remifentanil Infusion for Fast-Track Anesthesia in Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the combination of intrathecal morphine and remifentanil infusion with isoflurane in off-pump coronary artery surgery, with a focus on postoperative analgesia and fast-tracking.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized, controlled, blinded clinical study.

SETTING

University hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty-six patients who underwent elective off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients were randomly assigned to receive remifentanil infusion alone (control group, n = 23) or remifentanil infusion plus 10 microg/kg of intrathecal morphine (ITM group, n = 23). Induction and maintenance anesthesia were the same in both groups. Maintenance therapy was remifentanil infusion (0.25-1 microg/kg/min) and 0.5% to 1.5% isoflurane, with adjustments according to hemodynamics. After extubation, intravenous patient-controlled analgesia with morphine (1-mg bolus and 5-minute lockout) was administered, and Wilson sedation scores, visual analog pain scores (scale, 0-100 mm) at rest and during coughing, and cumulative morphine consumption were assessed at 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 hours. Examiners were unaware of patients' group identities. Anesthetic recovery parameters and opioid-related, spinal anesthesia-related, and cardiac complications were recorded.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

There were no differences between the groups' intraoperative hemodynamic or anesthetic recovery findings. Pain scores and morphine consumption were significantly lower in the ITM group at all time points after extubation (p = 0.0001-0.05). Group frequencies of opioid-related and cardiac complications were similar. No patient had central neuroaxial hematoma or post-spinal tap headache.

CONCLUSION

In the setting of isoflurane anesthesia for off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting, ITM combined with remifentanil infusion provides better postoperative analgesia than does remifentanil infusion alone, and does not improve or negatively affect fast-tracking.

Fast track in liver transplantation: 5 years' experience

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Reducing postoperative mechanical ventilation in patients undergoing liver transplantation may have clinical and organizational advantages. On the basis of our experience, we here evaluate the possibility of practising immediate tracheal extubation in the operating theatre.

METHODS

In this prospective study, patients consecutively undergoing liver transplantation between 1 June 1999 and 31 May 2004 were extubated in the operating theatre at the end of surgery on the basis of standardized and universally accepted criteria, under conditions of haemodynamic and metabolic stability.

RESULTS

Two hundred and seven of the 354 patients (58.5%) were extubated immediately after the completion of the surgical procedure (mean time between end of surgery and extubation: 0.4 +/- 1.4 min); two were re-intubated. In the last of the 5 yr of the study, the percentage of immediate extubations increased to 82.5%. During the study period, there was a progressive increase in the number of immediate extubations per individual member of the team of anaesthetists. The pre-transplant Child-Pugh severity of the underlying liver disease did not predict rapid extubation, but the Model for End-stage Liver Disease score of < 11 did (receiver operator characteristic area under the curve = 0.61; P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Immediate extubation after liver transplantation is possible in a substantial percentage of cases; confidence, habit and a spirit of emulation are decisive factors in encouraging anaesthetists to extend this practice to the largest possible number of patients. A successful immediate extubation may be an important indicator of perioperative quality of care in liver transplantation.

Outcomes of early extubation after bypass surgery in the elderly

BACKGROUND

While early extubation after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) has been associated with resource savings, its effect on patient outcomes remains unclear. The goal of the present investigation was to evaluate whether early extubation can be performed safely in elderly CABG patients in community practice.

METHODS

We studied 6,446 CABG patients, aged 65 years and older, treated at 35 hospitals between 1995 and 1998. Patients were categorized based on their post-CABG extubation duration (early, < 6 hours; intermediate, 6 to < 12 hours; and late, 12 to 24 hours). We compared unadjusted and risk-adjusted mortality, reintubation rates, and post-CABG length of stay (pLOS). We also examined the association between patients' intubation time and outcomes among patients with similar propensity for early extubation and among high-risk patient subgroups.

RESULTS

The overall mean post-CABG intubation time was 9.8 (SD 5.7) hours with 29% of patients extubated within 6 hours. After adjusting for preoperative risk factors patients extubated in less than 6 hours had significantly shorter postoperative hospital stays than those with later extubation times. Patients extubated early also tended to have equal or better risk-adjusted mortality than those with intermediate (odds ratio: 1.69, p = 0.08) or long intubation times (odds ratio: 1.97, p = 0.02). These results were consistent among patients with similar preoperative propensity for early extubation and among important high-risk patient subgroups. There was no evidence for higher reintubation rates among elderly patients selected for early extubation.

CONCLUSIONS

In community practice, early extubation after CABG can be achieved safely in selected elderly patients. This practice was associated with shorter hospital stays without adverse impact on postoperative outcomes.

Is very early extubation after lung transplantation feasible?

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate donor graft function, intraoperative blood consumption, and oxygenation and hemodynamic stability in patients undergoing lung transplantation.

DESIGN

Prospective pilot study.

SETTING

University hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty-three patients undergoing lung transplantation from January 1999 to June 2001.

INTERVENTIONS

Hemodynamic monitoring, early extubation, and noninvasive ventilation criteria.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The 31 nonearly extubated patients showed a lower PaO(2)/fraction of inspired oxygen (F(I)O(2)), a higher mean pulmonary arterial pressure, extravascular lung-water index (EVLWI) and vasoactive drug support (norepinephrine), and more blood products consumption than 12 early extubated patients at the end of surgery. Seven of 12 early extubated patients did not show any signs of respiratory failure after tracheal extubation; they were alert and able to perform deep breathing exercise and coughing. In the other 5 patients, hypoxemia, hypercapnia, and an increase of respiratory rate >30 breaths/min were observed. The intermittent application of noninvasive pressure ventilation by face mask avoided endotracheal intubation.

CONCLUSION

The use of a short-acting anesthetic drug, appropriate intraoperative extubation criteria, epidural analgesia, and postoperative noninvasive ventilation make early extubation of lung-transplanted patients possible and effective.

Thoracic epidurals in heart valve surgery: neurologic risk evaluation

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the risk of neurologic complications resulting from epidural hematoma in a series of patients who had surgery for repair or replacement of heart valves under combined general and thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA).

DESIGN

Prospective observational study.

SETTING

General reference hospital associated with a university.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients (n = 305) who had surgery for replacement or repair of heart valves.

INTERVENTIONS

An epidural catheter was inserted at T1-3 as soon as the patient was in the operating room, and local anesthetic was administered as a bolus, then as a continuous infusion throughout the operation and postoperatively. A protocol for postoperative neurologic evaluation was used to rule out clinical signs of spinal lesions. A set of safety guidelines was routinely followed.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Preoperatively a battery of coagulation tests was systematically carried out: activated partial thromboplastin time, platelet count, and prothrombin time. Oral anticoagulants (warfarin) were stopped >60 hours before surgery, and antiplatelet drugs (aspirin) were stopped 7 days before. No patient required parenteral opiates postoperatively. Of the patients, 65% were extubated in the operating room. There were no neurologic complications resulting from epidural hematoma.

CONCLUSION

TEA can provide effective postoperative analgesia and assist in early tracheal extubation in cardiac valve surgery. In this series, there were no neurologic deficits detected. When certain safety measures are taken, routine TEA is feasible and helpful in cardiac valve surgery.

Liberation From Mechanical Ventilation Following Heart Surgery

The definition of ventilator dependency following heart surgery has evolved from a requirement for mechanical ventilation for more than 48 hours to less than 24 hours. Minimization of risk factors assessed in the preoperative period and improved surical and anesthetic techniques lead to improved and shortned postoperative courses and decreased hospital lengths of stay. The management of ventilator dependency following heart surgery should be approached from the perspective of pre-intensive care unit, intensive care unit, and post-intensive care unit Issues. A thorough understanding of risk factors for adverse postoperative morbidity and mortality leads to foused intraoperative and postoperative management aimed at improved quality of life following surgery. Minimizing preoprative risks and matching the postoperative state with criteria for the ideal candidate for early extubation improves outcome and minimizes requirements for mechanical ventilation in the postoperative period. In the event of prolonged requirements for mechanical ventilation, correcting impediments to weanng from mechanical ventilation provides the best circumtances to facilitate the process of rehabilitation and liberaion from mechanical ventilation.

Trials comparing early vs late extubation following cardiovascular surgery

We identified 10 randomized trials that compared alternative management approaches to patient care during and following cardiovascular surgery. One overall strategy involved a modification of anesthesia, in particular, a reduction in the dosage of fentanyl and benzodiazepine or the substitution of fentanyl for propofol (five randomized controlled trials [RCTs]). Pooled results show a shorter duration of ventilation (7 h) and a shorter duration of hospital stay (approximately 1 day) associated with lower anesthetic doses. The second strategy involved early vs late extubation once patients were admitted to the ICU (five RCTs). Pooled results show a shorter duration of ventilation (13 h) and a shorter duration of ICU stay (half a day) associated with early extubation. An additional 8 nonrandomized trials had findings that were consistent with the 10 RCTs. Reintubation, complications, and mortality rates were too low to draw conclusions about these outcomes. Overall, these studies indicate that anesthetic, sedation, and early-extubation strategies in selected cardiac surgery patients are associated with a shorter duration of mechanical ventilation and shorter lengths of ICU and hospital stays.

Quality care outcomes in cardiac surgery: the role of evidence-based practice

An internal database and research methods were used to evaluate the impact of clopidogrel on cardiac surgical bleeding. This quality improvement initiative, led by the clinical nurse specialist, showed that preoperative exposure to clopidogrel was associated with significant increases in chest tube output, blood product use, and reoperation for bleeding rates that were 10-fold higher than for control patients (0.85% versus 8.3%, P = 0.027). Acute care costs averaged $2,680 more for patients who received clopidogrel (P = 0.1936). After implementation of an interdepartmental clinical practice guideline, preoperative exposure to clopidogrel dropped from 39% to 6.3% (P = 0.0000). This drop was accompanied by reductions in chest tube output, blood product use, and bleeding complications, with improved achievement of clinical benchmarks. The availability of internal evidence to support achievement of best practices was an essential factor in the implementation of this interdepartmental change. Comprehensive database systems and advanced practice nurses are highlighted as essential components of evidence-based programs.

Early extubation after cardiac surgery: emotional status in the early postoperative period

OBJECTIVE

To compare the emotional state during the first 3 days after coronary artery surgery of patients who had undergone early versus conventional extubation.

DESIGN

A prospective, randomized, controlled trial.

SETTING

University hospital, single center.

PARTICIPANTS

Eligible patients (n = 100) presenting for elective coronary artery surgery, randomized to an early extubation group or a conventional extubation group.

INTERVENTIONS

Emotional status was measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD), the Self Assessment Manikin (SAM), and the Multiple Affect Adjective Check List-Revised (MAACL-R). Tests were administered preoperatively and on the 1st and 3rd days postoperatively.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Of patients in the conventional extubation group, 30% showed moderate-to-severe depressive symptoms (HAD score >10) on day 3 postoperatively compared with 8% of patients in the early extubation group (p = 0.02). There was a clinically insignificant increase in MAACL-R depression score on the 1st postoperative day within both groups but no other differences within or between groups in SAM or MAACL-R scores.

CONCLUSION

Early extubation results in fewer patients displaying depressive symptoms on the 3rd postoperative day but appears to have little effect on other measurements of emotional status. Anesthetic management during coronary artery bypass graft surgery may play an important role in the overall well-being of the patient by decreasing the incidence of postoperative depression.

Effect of gender on fast-track recovery after coronary artery bypass graft surgery

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effects of gender on time to extubation after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery and intensive care unit and hospital length of stay.

DESIGN

Retrospective study comparing outcomes as related to gender.

SETTING

Tertiary care university teaching hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Consecutive patients (n = 561; 376 men, 185 women) undergoing CABG surgery between January 1995 and December 1997.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Early extubation was possible in 74% of men versus 64% of women (p = 0.03); length of stay was < or =5 days in 60% of men versus 48% of women (p = 0.008); overall postoperative length of stay was 5.7 days for men versus 6.5 days for women (p = 0.003); morbidity and mortality were not significantly different between groups.

CONCLUSION

Women undergoing CABG surgery with a standardized fast-track protocol have longer intubation times, intensive care unit length of stay, and hospital length of stay than their male counterparts.

Predictive risk factors for pulmonary oxygen transfer in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting

The ratio of arterial oxygen tension to inspired oxygen fraction (PaO2/FiO2) is a useful indicator for weaning patients from mechanical ventilation and a reliable predictor of pulmonary dysfunction after cardiac surgery. The aim of this study was to elucidate the patient characteristics and variables that affect the PaO2/FiO2 ratio. Between 1994-1998, 167 patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) were examined retrospectively. Spearman's correlation coefficients were calculated between the PaO2/FiO2 ratio and intubation period, and length of ICU stay. Patients were then divided into two groups with a PaO2/FiO2 ratio < 350 and PaO2/FiO2 ratio > or = 350. Univariate analysis of the putative risk factors was performed. A logistic regression model was developed to evaluate factors that would influence the PaO2/FiO2 ratio. A significant correlation was observed between the PaO2/FiO2 ratio and intubation period, and length of ICU stay. Univariate predictors of a PaO2/FiO2 ratio < 350 were low body weight, low preoperative PaO2 long operation time, high FiO2, low postoperative PaO2 history of smoking, hypertension and opening of pleura (p < 0.05). Excellent prediction was found with a model consisting of preoperative PaO2 and hypertension.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggest that patients with a low preoperative PaO2 or hypertension may need more careful peri- and postoperative management since these factors are closely associated with the PaO2/FiO2 ratio.

Morbid results of prolonged intubation after coronary artery bypass surgery

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated the morbid results of prolonged intubation after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

METHODS

Over 30 months, 66 of 1,112 patients undergoing CABG required prolonged intubation. They were matched with 66 patients who did not require prolonged intubation. Preoperative and operative variables were evaluated to determine which would predict prolonged intubation. The postoperative courses were then compared to evaluate the effect of prolonged intubation. The study population was divided into three groups: those who underwent early extubation, but required reintubation (n = 24); those who required initial prolonged intubation, but no reintubation (n = 22); and those who required initial prolonged intubation and reintubation (n = 20).

RESULTS

Univariate analysis revealed unstable angina (p = 0.037), elevated creatinine (p = 0.001), reduced FEV(1) (p = 0.019), longer cardiopulmonary bypass time (p = 0.009), and a greater positive fluid balance at 24 h (p = 0.0001) as predictors of postoperative prolonged intubation. Multivariate regression analysis revealed elevated creatinine (p = 0.011), FEV(1) (p = 0.022), and fluid balance (p = 0.001) as predictors of prolonged intubation. The study population had longer ICU and hospital stays (p = 0.0001), with more infectious complications (p = 0.0001) and higher mortality (p = 0. 001). In the subgroups of the study population, patients not requiring reintubation had shorter ICU (p = 0.001) and hospital stays (p = 0.0001), fewer infectious complications (p = 0.0001), and reduced mortality (p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing CABG with reduced FEV(1), renal failure, and positive fluid balance 24 h postoperatively are at risk for prolonged intubation. Prolonged intubation results in significant acute and midterm morbidity and mortality. Early extubation followed by reintubation further increases morbidity and mortality rates in these patients.

Prophylactic nitroglycerin did not reduce myocardial ischemia during accelerated recovery management of coronary artery bypass graft surgery patients

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the use of a high dose of nitroglycerin (NTG) for prophylaxis against myocardial ischemia and infarction in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery with accelerated recovery.

DESIGN

Prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized study.

SETTING

A university-based medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

Forty adult patients presenting for elective CABG surgery.

INTERVENTIONS

Forty patients were divided into 2 blinded study groups. Twenty patients received 2 microg/kg/min of NTG starting before induction of anesthesia and continuing for 6 hours after extubation in the intensive care unit. The placebo group (n = 20) received normal saline during this same interval.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Hemodynamics, incidence and severity of myocardial ischemia, and myocardial infarction rates were determined. There were no differences in hemodynamic parameters between groups. The incidence of ischemia was approximately 35% in each group. Myocardial infarction (as determined by elevated creatine kinase-MB fraction, troponin I, and electrocardiogram criteria) was 10% in the placebo group and 5% in the NTG group (p = 0.234).

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows a high incidence of myocardial ischemia and infarction in patients presenting for CABG surgery with an accelerated recovery management scheme. NTG was well tolerated clinically; however, it was not found to be protective against myocardial ischemia or infarction in this setting.

Fast-track cardiac anesthesia: use of remifentanil combined with intrathecal morphine as an alternative to sufentanil during desflurane anesthesia

The purpose of this cardiac fast-track study was to evaluate the use of remifentanil (R) combined with intrathecal (IT) morphine as an alternative to sufentanil (S) during desflurane anesthesia with respect to postoperative pain control. Prior to entering the operating room, patients in the R group (n = 20) received morphine, 8 microg/kg IT. Anesthesia was induced using a standardized anesthetic technique in all patients. In the R group, anesthesia was maintained with R, 0.1 microg. kg(-1). min(-1) in combination with desflurane 3-10%. In the S group (n = 20), patients received S 0.3 microg. kg(-1). h(-1) and desflurane 3-10%. There were no differences between the two groups with respect to time from arrival in the intensive care unit to tracheal extubation (5.1 +/- 4.3 h vs 5.8 +/- 6.7 h for R and S groups, respectively). After extubation, patients in the R group had significantly lower visual analog pain scores, reduced patient-controlled analgesic requirements, and greater satisfaction with their perioperative pain management, compared with patients in the S group. We conclude that R combined with IT morphine provided superior pain control after cardiac surgery compared with a S-based general anesthetic technique.

IMPLICATIONS

As part of a cardiac fast-tracking program involving desflurane anesthesia, the use of intrathecal morphine in combination with a remifentanil infusion provided improved postoperative pain control, compared with IV sufentanil alone.

Optimizing timing of early extubation in coronary artery bypass surgery patients

BACKGROUND

This study was designed to assess the safety and efficacy of extubation performed within 4 hours of the patient's arrival in the surgical intensive care unit after coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

METHODS

A matched retrospective cohort study was performed including 412 consecutive patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery between January 1996 and December 1997, constituting the experience of a single surgeon (J.H.L.). Early extubation (defined as extubation within 8 hours of arrival at the surgical intensive care unit) was achieved in 308 of 412 patients (75%). Patients extubated in fewer than 4 hours after arrival (n = 200) were compared with patients extubated within 4 to 8 hours (n = 108).

RESULTS

Four deaths occurred in 412 patients, for an overall operative mortality rate of 1.0%. Patients extubated in fewer than 4 hours were younger than those extubated 4 or more hours after admission (62 versus 67 years old, respectively; p = 0.001), more likely to be male (74% versus 63%, p < 0.05), and had shorter aortic cross-clamp times (49.4 +/- 15.0 versus 53.5 +/- 14.0 minutes, p < 0.05) and cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) times (65.2 +/- 18.6 versus 72.1 +/- 19.1 minutes, p < 0.05) compared to patients extubated later. Moreover, patients extubated in fewer than 4 hours had a shorter surgical intensive care unit length of stay (33.8 +/- 25.7 versus 43.1 +/- 43.0 hours, p < 0.05) and shorter postoperative length of stay (5.4 +/- 2.4 versus 6.2 +/- 2.6 days, p = 0.01) than those extubated later.

CONCLUSIONS

Extubation in fewer than 4 hours may offer a substantial advantage in terms of accelerated recovery compared with extubation within 4 to 8 hours. Very few differences in clinical parameters were noted between the two groups we studied, suggesting that efforts to reduce extubation times further might be worthwhile.

A comparison of human and machine-based predictions of successful weaning from mechanical ventilation

PURPOSE

To evaluate the ability of an appropriately trained neural network to correctly interpret a set of weaning parameters to predict the liberation of a patient from mechanical ventilation, and to contrast these predictions with those of human experts restricted to the same limited set of physiologic data.

METHODS

For each set of weaning parameters, a prediction was made by multiple realizations of a neural network and six expert volunteers.

RESULTS

The percentage of correct predictions made by the neural network when the decision threshold was set to 0.5 (range 0-1) was 83.3 +/- 4.2 (mean +/- SD) and that for the experts was 83.3 +/- 4.7. Predictions by the network when the threshold was 0.5 had a sensitivity of 0.83 and a specificity of 0.84, compared with 0.90 and 0.77, respectively, for the experts. However, sensitivity and specificity comparable to those of the human experts could be obtained by adjusting the decision threshold of the network predictor so that only the most clearly ventilator-dependent patients would not be given a trial of extubation.

CONCLUSION

When both are restricted to the same limited set of patient data, appropriately trained neural networks can be as effective as human experts in predicting whether weaning from mechanical ventilation will be successful.

Continuous infusion of remifentanil and target-controlled infusion of propofol for patients undergoing cardiac surgery: a new approach for scheduled early extubation

OBJECTIVE

To assess hemodynamic stability, postoperative pain management, and the control and timing of early extubation of a total intravenous anesthetic technique using propofol target-controlled infusion (TCI) and remifentanil in cardiac surgery.

DESIGN

Prospective study.

SETTING

University hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Fifty patients scheduled for elective cardiac surgery.

INTERVENTIONS

Premedication consisted of oral midazolam, 0.1 mg/kg. Anesthesia was induced with propofol TCI at a target concentration of 1.5 to 2 microg/mL; remifentanil, 1 microg/kg; and rocuronium. Anesthesia was maintained with propofol at the same target concentration and remifentanil titrated between 0.25 and 1 microg/kg/min. Thirty minutes before the end of surgery, a 0.1-mg/kg bolus of morphine was administered intravenously. Postoperative sedation was achieved by maintaining the propofol infusion until the patient was deemed ready for extubation. Postoperative pain relief was evaluated using a visual analog scale. The intervals between arrival in the intensive care unit, spontaneous ventilation, and extubation were recorded.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Included in this study were 36 men and 14 women (American Society of Anesthesiologist = III; New York Heart Association = II) scheduled for cardiac surgery. All patients remained hemodynamically stable throughout the perioperative period. Thirty-seven patients were successfully extubated during the first 4 postoperative hours. Spontaneous breathing was achieved at a mean interval of 15+/-5 minutes after propofol discontinuation. The mean interval to extubation was 163+/-45 minutes after arrival in the intensive care unit. Extubation was performed 48+/-12 minutes after patients were considered ready to awaken. During spontaneous ventilation, 36 patients received additional boluses of morphine (mean, 2.5+/-1 mg). Subsequently, all patients achieved a visual analog scale less than 40 mm.

CONCLUSION

The combination of remifentanil and propofol TCI resulted in hemodynamic stability and good postoperative analgesia. This technique allows physicians to schedule the time of extubation in patients undergoing cardiac anesthesia.

Routine immediate extubation after cardiac operation: a review of our first 100 patients

BACKGROUND

Early extubation after cardiac operation is an important aspect of fast-track cardiac anesthesia. Immediate extubation is an extension of this concept. We describe a technique that allows immediate extubation in the majority of patients.

METHODS

To allow rapid emergence, anesthesia was modified from a high-dose opioid technique to intravenous propofol anesthesia supplemented with sevoflurane. Normothermic cardiopulmonary bypass was used with routine intermittent antegrade and retrograde tepid blood cardioplegia. High thoracic epidural analgesia was used to facilitate immediate extubation in the majority of patients. Contraindications to immediate extubation were prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) (>2.5 hours), hemodynamic instability, uncontrolled bleeding, morbid obesity, severe pulmonary hypertension, congestive cardiac failure, or if the operation was emergent.

RESULTS

Of 109 consecutive patients, 100 were immediately extubated (92%). No patient required reintubation within the first 24 hours after operation. One patient required reintubation 3 days after operation for sputum retention, and 2 patients required reoperation. There was no mortality and the incidence of perioperative morbidity was low.

CONCLUSIONS

Immediate extubation after cardiac operation can be safely achieved and is possible in a majority of patients.

[Minimally invasive cardiac surgery: surgical techniques and anesthetic problems]

OBJECTIVE

To review current data on minimally invasive cardiac surgery.

DATA SOURCES

Search through the Medline data base of French or English articles.

DATA EXTRACTION

The articles were analysed to make a synthesis of the various techniques with their main indications and contra-indications.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Minimally invasive cardiac surgery includes various surgical procedures. The usual techniques are described, their major benefits and drawbacks are discussed. The main goals of anaesthetic management are preservation of ventricular function and systemic perfusion, detection and treatment of myocardial ischaemia, prevention of hypothermia in case of coronary artery bypass grafting on the beating heart via sternotomy, intermittent selective ventilation of the collapsed lung using CPAP in case of limited thoracotomy. Expertise in transoesophageal echocardiography is essential for insertion and checking the accurate positioning of the various catheters of the endovascular CPB Heartport system (pulmonary vent, endosinus catheter, venous cannula, endoaortic clamp) allowing coronary artery bypass grafting and mitral valve surgery through limited thoracotomy and finally, detection of retained intracardiac air and assessment of complete clearing of cardiac cavities after mitral valve surgery through limited thoracotomy and aortic valve surgery via ministernotomy. Short-acting anaesthetic agents allow rapid recovery from anaesthesia, early extubation and discharge to the surgical ward within 24 h, whereas overall time spent in the operating room is often longer than with conventional cardiac surgery.

Fast track recovery of elderly coronary bypass surgery patients

BACKGROUND

To ascertain whether early extubation and fast-track treatment protocols are feasible in elderly patients, we analyzed 487 consecutive patients who had isolated coronary artery bypass grafting between January 1995 and June 1997, constituting the experience of a single surgeon.

METHODS

Management consistently applied to all patients emphasized early extubation protocol, tepid cardioplegia and normothermic bypass to reduce pump times, early mobilization and chest tube removal, and protocol treatment of atrial fibrillation. Elderly patients at least 70 years old (n = 176, mean age 75 years) were compared with younger patients (n = 311, mean age 58 years).

RESULTS

The hospital mortality rate was 0.8% (4 of 487 patients), and there was no difference in the operative mortality rate of the older cohort versus the younger cohort (0.6% versus 0.9%; p > 0.05). Older patients had a higher incidence of peripheral vascular disease, congestive heart failure, prior strokes, renal failure, and cerebrovascular disease (p < 0.05). Early extubation was achieved in 71% of younger patients versus 57% of older cohort (95% confidence interval, 14%+/-9%; p = 0.002). Older patients had significantly higher incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation (27% versus 14%; 95% CI, 13%+/-7%; p < 0.001), a factor responsible for shorter length of stay among younger patients (5.6+/-2.8 days versus 7.2+/-3.7 days; 95% CI, 1.6+/-0.3 days; p < 0.001). Nonetheless discharge before the fifth postoperative day was achieved in 34% of the elderly patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Although elderly patients have a higher acuity of illness, critical pathways for accelerated discharge are safe and feasible in most elderly patients.