Cardiac protection: a fact or myth?

Abstract

A high rate of peri-operative mortality has been noted in patients with coronary artery disease, which warrants specific measures to prevent cardiac deaths in these patients.  Perioperative cardiac protection can be achieved through either revascularization (CABG/PCI) or by pharmacologic means. While the first is only justified by medical reasons, the success of different drugs has proven less than desired. A plan is suggested to manage the unexpected rise of troponin in the postoperative period.