Treatment of perioperative low cardiac output syndrome

New approaches to the treatment of perioperative low cardiac output are considered. In particular, use of the phosphodiesterase III inhibitors and their cardiovascular actions are reviewed and contrasted with those of conventional inotropic agents. The increasing recognition of right-sided dysfunction is highlighted, and appropriate therapeutic strategies are considered. The increasing role of pulmonary-specific vasodilators such as inhaled nitric oxide is emphasized. Strategies to preserve right heart perfusion while producing pulmonary vasodilatation are discussed.