stop due to medication error with the placebo

This single-institution randomized controlled trial prospective will enrolled 48 patients scheduled for an aortic valve replacement. The objective of the present investigation is to determine the role of Polaramine® on reducing hemodynamic instability after separation from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) during cardiac surgery. Our hypothesis is that Polaramine® play an important role reducing dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system and hemodynamic stability after separation from CPB.

Vasoplegic syndrome is recognized as a common complication after CPB. Its incidence ranges from 5% to 25% after cardiac surgery requiring CPB. Such syndrome is related to an inflammatory reaction, which is attributed to the CPB. This syndrome is typically characterized by a combination of different parameters with low specificity and sensitivity, such as low systemic vascular resistance leading to a hypotension imposing perfusion of vasopressors with high or normal cardiac outputs.

Investigators preliminary data suggest that vasoplegic syndrome might be related to heart manipulation during surgery. Tearing maneuvers performed on the heart chambers trigger peaks pressure stimulating, consequently, baroreceptors and finally resulting in arteriovenous vasodilation via neurogenic and endogenous pathways. According to investigators initial investigation, such reaction appears to be related to basophils degranulation and release of vasoactive substances.

The hypothesis of the present trial is that a reduction of basophils degranulation and release of vasoactive substances via an antihistaminic could lower the incidence of the vasoplegic syndrome. This study aims to determine the effect of an antihistamine (dexchlorpheniramine (Polaramine®)) administered intravenously before CPB, on the vasoplegic syndrome incidence after separation from CPB.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men aged 18 and older
• Post menopausal women
• Patients scheduled for an aortic valve replacement with a traditional sternotomy and CPB

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction lower than 40%
• Patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension higher than 50mm of Hg,
• Redo cardiac surgery,
• Atrioventricular and intraventricular conduction disturbances
• Epilepsy or convulsions
• Atopic disease
• Women of childbearing potential
• Patients at risk of glaucoma
• Patients with therapy interacting with dexchlorpheniramine (Polaramine®).
• Patients unable to provide a signed informed consent