e. Implementation
During the intra-operative period once the sternotomy was performed, the administration of the drugs was divided in two groups, E group and DEX group which aim to maintain heart rate at 50-60 (bpm). Coronary arteriotomy is performed, in the area previously chosen and assessed by the Cardiothoracic surgeon, a clip of coronary artery retraction is placed and the anastomosis was made.
Methods of hemodynamic monitoring. During the perioperative period all patients were monitored with FloTrac/Vigileoï›› a widely used method that uses CVP and vascular tone to calculate stroke volume and CO; we compared heart rate and MAP in both groups (ESM and DEX) at the following times:
The graft was obtained from the internal mammary artery. The mediastinum and pleural cavities were drained intraoperatively, and the sternum closed. Both ESM and DEX infusions were suspended, once the placement of the sternal closure was completed, each patient was then transferred to the ICU.