Hemodynamic monitoring and vasodilator therapy in acute left ventricular failure. Preliminary report on a new vasodilator, tolmesoxide.

Data, obtained by invasive hemodynamic monitoring, are now routinely available in our Intensive Care Unit, and are processed by means of a small calculator to a cardiovascular profile, including O2 transport/consumption, vascular resistance and ventricular work values. Patients with clinically persistent shock states, after 12-24 hours optimal classical cardiovascular therapy, are invasively studied. Vasodiltor therapy frequently improves not only hemodynmic parameters, but also oxygen delivery to the tissues. Tolmesoxide, a new peripheal vasodilator, has been used in eleven patients. Preliminary results are discussed.