The effects of intrathecal Bupivacaine plus general anesthesia on stress hormones in Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

Abstract

Background: Activation of stress response during cardiac surgeries such as cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) can increase myocardial oxygen demand and consumption through induced tachycardia and augmented peripheral vascular resistance. These physiologic consequences may lead to increased morbidity and mortality by putting too great a strain on the already compromised organ systems.