Comparison of levosimendan versus IABP in patients with poor left ventricular function undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the use of levosimendan versus intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) in patients with poor left ventricular function undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with ejection fraction less than 35%. Methods: Between February 2016 and March 2019, a prospective randomized study was performed on a group of 279 consecutive patients with left ventricular ejection fraction < 35%, who underwent elective CABG without concomitant procedures. These patients were divided into 2 groups, according to the treatment they received - either levosimendan (Group A) or intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation (Group B). Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups, regarding mortality and morbidity. In the IABP group, the mean arterial blood pressure (2 hours post cardiopulmonary bypass) significantly was higher, and the heart rate in postoperative Day 1 significantly was lower. The levosimendan group had a significantly lower ICU stay than the IABP group. Conclusion: We found that starting levosimendan infusion after induction of anesthesia is an acceptable option in comparison to IABP. The use of levosimendan in high-risk cardiac patients is comparable to IABP in improving hemodynamics during and after conventional on-pump CABG and results in a shorter ICU stay.