Search

Levosimendan is a calcium-sensitizing agent with effective inotropic properties. It has been shown to improve cardiac function, hemodynamic performance, and survival in adults with severe heart failure. However, the effect of Levosimendan in pediatric cardiac surgery has not yet been investigated. Thus, we report on our experience with the intraoperative application of Levosimendan in seven infants (body weight range 2.6-6.3 kg) with severe myocardial dysfunction after complex congenital heart surgery. During the administration of Levosimendan, the heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure, and central venous pressure did not change. The mean arterial lactate level significantly decreased 24 and 48 h after the first infusion compared to baseline. Central venous oxygen saturation increased significantly 24 and 48 h after the onset of Levosimendan infusion. We found intraoperatively administered Levosimendan to be well tolerated in the seven infants with severe myocardial dysfunction after complex congenital heart surgery. Levosimendan is a new rescue drug which has beneficial effects, even in pediatric cardiac surgery.

This study describes a modified Seldinger technique for 2- and 3-French peripherally inserted central venous catheters: A device similar to that used in heart catherisation with a standard micro-introducer serving as sheath and an arterial catheter serving as inner dilator was pushed forward over a wire guide that had before been inserted via a peripheral venous catheter. With this method 2-and 3-French catheters could be safely inserted into peripheral veins of 14 paediatric patients. In conclusion successful insertion of a small peripheral venous catheter offers in most cases a possibility for the placement of a central venous line.