Plasma albumin and calcium levels following cardiopulmonary bypass.

A significant fall in the levels of plasma albumin and a corresponding fall i in the levels of extracellular calcium occurred following cardiopulmonary bypass with the crystalloid prime. Postoperative hypoalbuminaemia was well tolerated, except in the patients with poor left ventricular function. Postoperative hypocalcaemia may increase digoxin sensitivity and may augment the negative inotropic effect of verapamil.