Right stellate ganglion block for treatment of hypertension after cardiopulmonary bypass.

Right stellate ganglion block was performed on 24 patients in whom hypertension developed after cardiopulmonary bypass. Changes in blood pressure, central venous pressure, cardiac output, and heart rate were evaluated. Most patients evidenced a decrease in systolic blood pressure (average, 40 mm Hg) and diastolic blood pressure (average, 19 mm Hg). Systemic vascular resistance was measured in 8 patients, and 7 demonstrated a decrease (average reduction, 6.7 resistance units). Changes in cardiac output were variable. Although stellate ganglion block can be safely performed and, in most patients, markedly reduces systolic blood pressure, the results suggest that other hypotensive agents may be more advantageous in the treatment of hypertension subsequent to coronary artery operation.