Preoperative antioxidant and allopurinol therapy for reducing reperfusion-induced injury in patients undergoing cardiothoracic surgery

Administration of vitamin E, vitamin C, and allopurinol to reduce reperfusion-induced injury remains controversial. Clinical trials are being conducted, and the results are promising. No adverse side effects have been reported with the short-term use of these drugs. The cost of the pre-operative medication is approximately $5 per week, which favors its use. The ability of nurses to be effective advocates of patients receiving these drugs is vital. What appears to be a trivial medication regimen may save myocardial cells and promote an uncomplicated postoperative period.