The Effect of Statin Therapy on Stimulation of Endothelium-Derived Nitric Oxide before and after Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

Abstract

Preoperative atorvastatin treatment in patients with coronary artery disease increases plasma NO levels before and after reactive hyperemia prior to surgery. CABG surgery with CPB significantly impairs endothelial-derived NO levels, with or without preoperative atorvastatin treatment. Preoperative nitroglycerine use is correlated with higher NO levels after CABG.