too slow recruitment; lack of funding

Aim of this study is to determine the effect of isoflurane versus sevoflurane on blood pressure and systemic vascular resistance.

In modern anesthesia a variety of volatile anesthetics is available. In cardiac anesthesiology both isoflurane and sevoflurane are frequently used. At present the number of studies comparing the influence of isoflurane and sevoflurane on blood pressure and systemic vascular resistance is limited. Moreover, the results presented in the available literature are inconsistent. The decision as to which of both volatiles should be used during cardiac surgery is not evidence-based, but is based on personal preference of the anesthesist. The most reliable way to compare the effects of isoflurane and sevoflurane on blood pressure and systemic vascular resistance is a randomized controlled trial in patients during Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).

Inclusion Criteria:

• competent adult patients (18 years or older)undergoing elective coronary artery bypass grafting with the use of the cardiopulmonary bypass.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients undergoing valve surgery or combined surgical procedures (e.g. coronary artery bypass grafting in combination with valve reconstruction.
• uncontrolled hypertension
• a poor left ventricular function
• renal failure
• a body mass index of > 25
• history of cerebrovascular accident, transient ischemic accident or carotid artery stenosis.