Additional Topics: Cardiac

Abstract

In this chapter topics related to use of anesthesia in cardiac patients are discussed. Subtopics include use of heparin in a patient undergoing a coronary artery bypass graft, and management of a cardiac tamponade, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, coarctation of the aorta, and bacterial endocarditis. Also addressed is management of a patient with an automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (AICD). The mechanism of an intra-aortic balloon pump is discussed, along with its contraindications. The mechanism of the cardiopulmonary bypass machine is also outlined. Open repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm is discussed, as are the cardiac considerations for surgery in a patient with Down syndrome. Each scenario is presented as a short, three- to four-question additional topic.