Halogenated Agents and Cardiovascular Surgery: Has Mortality Really Decreased?

Curr Vasc Pharmacol. 2018;16(4):336-343. doi: 10.2174/1570161115666171010121549.

Abstract

Halogenated anesthetic agents (desflurane, isoflurane and sevoflurane) may have cardioprotective properties at therapeutic doses against myocardial intraoperative ischemia-reperfusion injury. Cardioprotection mechanisms are related to mitochondrial and anti-apoptotic signaling pathways. Experimentals and human studies have proven that their use may reduce morbidity and mortality in the setting of cardiac surgery, including a reduction in myocardial infarct size and mechanical ventilation needs. In contrast, total intra-venous propofol based anesthesia may be detrimental. In the present review, we show the rationale for the perioperative use of halogenated anesthetics based on mechanisms of action, experimental research and human studies. Considerations and major concerns regarding their use, the present evidence for their use in other areas, such as major non-cardiac surgery and intensive care unit patients, and future perspectives are also discussed.

Keywords: Halogenated agents; anesthesia; cardiac surgery; intensive care; intensive care unit; outcomes; total intra-venous anesthesia..

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anesthesia, Inhalation / adverse effects
  • Anesthesia, Inhalation / mortality*
  • Anesthetics, Inhalation / administration & dosage*
  • Anesthetics, Inhalation / adverse effects
  • Animals
  • Cardiac Surgical Procedures / adverse effects
  • Cardiac Surgical Procedures / mortality*
  • Humans
  • Hydrocarbons, Halogenated / administration & dosage*
  • Hydrocarbons, Halogenated / adverse effects
  • Postoperative Complications / mortality
  • Postoperative Complications / physiopathology
  • Postoperative Complications / prevention & control
  • Protective Factors
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Anesthetics, Inhalation
  • Hydrocarbons, Halogenated