[Effect of non-pulsatile blood flow on the secretion of calcitonin-gene-related peptide in patients undergoing total cavopulmonary connection].

OBJECTIVE

To study the changes of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in patients who underwent total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) and to assess the effects of non-pulsatile blood flow on the secretion function of the lung.

METHODS

Twenty-six patients were divided into 2 groups: study group, 13 patients who underwent extracardiac TCPC, and control group, 13 patients who underwent definitive repair for ventricular septal or atrial septal defect. Blood samples for measurement of CGRP were obtained preoperatively, postoperatively or in the follow-up period. Cardiac index (CI) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) were measured by cardiac catheter.

RESULTS

The plasma level of CGRP was significantly higher in the study group than in the control group. CGRP was negatively correlated with PVR (r = -0.99, t = 9.82, P < 0.05), and positively correlation with CI (r = 0.98, t = 6.95, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

After total right heart bypass, the non-pulsatile blood flow in pulmonary circulation may stimulate the lung to secrete CGRP, leading to the decrease of PVR and improve early postoperative recovery.