Respiratory Distress Syndrome in the Adult After Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Abstract

Fifteen episodes of the adult respiratory distress syndrome occurred in 14 patients after cardiopulmonary bypass. The clinical course was characterized by tachypnea, hyperventilation, and progressive hypoxemia developing postoperatively after a symptom-free period. Recovery occurred after institution of respiratory support and administration of steroids, diuretics, and antibiotics. There were no deaths. Prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass time, a history of heavy cigarette smoking, and a tendency to develop cardiocirculatory failure postoperatively was present more frequently in these patients as compared to a control group of ten who experienced an uneventful recovery. Early recognition of the adult respiratory distress syndrome by serial monitoring of arterial blood gases and aggressive management of hypoxemia and bronchopulmonary infections are thought to be important factors in survival.