The use of xenon for sedation after cardiac surgery

Xenon produces minimal haemodynamic effects in rabbits with chronically compromised left ventricular function

“…There is only one preliminary report of xenon used in cardiac-compromised patients. 23 Postoperative sedation with xenon/remifentanil in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting resulted in haemodynamic stability (unchanged heart rate and mean arterial blood pressure), although cardiac index was slightly lower and SVR slightly higher compared with propofol/remifentanil sedation. 23 In summary, our data show that xenon has minimal effects on global haemodynamics in rabbits with compromised LV function after coronary artery ligation.…”

“…23 Postoperative sedation with xenon/remifentanil in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting resulted in haemodynamic stability (unchanged heart rate and mean arterial blood pressure), although cardiac index was slightly lower and SVR slightly higher compared with propofol/remifentanil sedation. 23 In summary, our data show that xenon has minimal effects on global haemodynamics in rabbits with compromised LV function after coronary artery ligation. Because of its considerable cost and limited availability, xenon anaesthesia might not achieve widespread clinical use, but may be a useful alternative in selected patients.…”