POSTOPERATIVE CARE AFTER WHOLE-BODY PERFUSION AND OPEN INTRACARDIAC OPERATIONS

Abstract

Open intracardiac operations, at the present time, can be done with a low risk and a minimum of complications. When complications do occur, they are related primarily to a reduction in cardiac output. Metabolic acidosis or the presence of complete heart block, although rare, can aggravate these states of low cardiac output. To combat such complications when they occur, accurate postoperative care is important. Maintenance of the patient's blood volume at proper levels, treatment of metabolic acidosis when it occurs, and the judicious use of digitalis are the cornerstones of such therapy. In general, every effort should be made to prevent complications by improving the quality and conduct of the operation itself.