Very Early Extubation After Open Heart Surgery In Children Does Not Influence Cardiac Function

Objective: The objective of our study was to evaluate hemodynamic effects and cardiac function after extubation within the first 6 hours after open-heart surgery in children. Design: Part of a prospective study including a period of 12 months, pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Patients: Fifty children (aged 3 months to 7yrs) arriving on PICU immediately after minor cardiac surgery, i.e. correction of atrial or ventricular septal defect by cardiopulmonary bypass, were enrolled. Interventions: All children were extubated within the first 6 hrs after their arrival on PICU. Measurements and results: Patients wer…