Learning Objectives:   

Upon conclusion of this program, participants should be able to:

• • Define the physiology and biochemistry of vasoplegia as it pertains to heart surgery and potentially other surgical events.
  • Define the roles of free radicals in paralysis of the vaso-motor resistance of blood vessels.
  • Review what is known regarding the off-label use of methylene blue dye in treatment of vasoplegia and the more recent work with vitamin B-12 cyanocobalamin.
  • Consider future research with regards to these agents and the newly approved angiotensin in treatment of vasoplegia.
• A discussion will follow regarding where in the continuum of disease and treatment these drugs should be applied.