Impact of Ascorbic Acid Treatment on the Development and Treatment of Vasodilation in Cardiac Surgery
Status:
Completed
Trial end date:
2021-02-05
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
This is a prospective pilot study in which the effects of ascorbic acid administration are
investigated in adult patients undergoing cardiac surgical procedures requiring
cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is an essential cofactor in the
biosynthesis of catecholamines, and critically ill patients are known to be
ascorbate-deficient. In addition, cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) decreases ascorbic acid
concentrations. Cardiac vasoplegia is the loss of vascular tone despite adequate volume
status and cardiac output, occurring commonly in patients after CPB. This necessitates the
administration of vasopressors and alternative agents which can have deleterious effects. The
administration of ascorbic acid to cardiac surgical patients may improve microcirculatory
function, enhance endogenous catecholamine levels and decrease the need for exogenous
vasopressor support.