Evaluation of Plasma Renin Concentrations in Cardiac Surgery

Summary

The purpose of this research is to learn more about how renin (a blood test) is affected by cardiopulmonary bypass, the heart-lung machine used during open heart surgery. Renin is a protein that may be elevated in response to low blood pressure or situations where organs do not receive sufficient oxygen. Renin may potentially be used as an indicator for specific treatments aimed to increase the blood pressure. This study will evaluate blood samples for renin concentration throughout the course of open heart surgery.

Detailed Description

The investigator hypothesizes that renin concentrations will increase with exposure to cardiopulmonary bypass and that increased renin concentrations will be associated with the development of vasoplegia. Specific Aim 1. To characterize the effects of cardiopulmonary bypass on plasma renin concentrations in adults undergoing cardiac surgery. Specific Aim 2. To test the prognostic value of plasma renin concentrations on outcomes following cardiac surgery.

Eligibility Criteria