Atrial and ventricular dysrhythmias developing after cardiac operation further reduce cardiac output, posing a serious problem for postoperative management. We have developed a “bio-mini-paddle” electrode designed to be attached directly to the myocardium

Phosphodiesterase inhibitors including milrinone produce positive inotropic effects by slowing the hydrolysis of cyclic adenosine monophosphate in the myocardium. With a loading dose of 50 μg/kg followed by an infusion of 0.5 μg • kg−1 • min−1, milrinone increases stroke volume index and left ventricular velocity of circumferential fiber shortening after weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass. Milrinone has potential for the treatment and prevention of internal mammary artery spasm because of its vasodilative effect, which is similar to that of papaverine, and is a potent pulmonary vasodilator for patients with right ventricular dysfunction and pulmonary vasoconstriction. Low-dose milrinone may have anti-inflammatory properties and potentially can improve splanchnic perfusion.