Cardiac surgery results in stress to the metabolic, physical and mental systems. There is increased production of reactive oxygen species with cardiac surgery. The present study was done to evaluate a preoperative program of increased antioxidant intake, physical therapy and mental therapy.

Sixteen patients were given supplements included Coenzyme Q(10,) 300 mg., alpha lipoic acid, 300 mg., magnesium orotate, 1200 mg. and omega-3 fatty acids, 3 gm., daily, for over a month before surgery. The patients received non-exhaustive light exercise and stretching. Mental therapy with stress reduction, relaxation and music was provided.

Blood testing and a quality of life questionnaire were done before and after surgery.

CONCLUSION: The testing showed that a program of supplements, physical therapy and relaxation therapy resulted in improved quality of life scores before surgery and reduced blood levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), demonstrating reduced oxidative stress after the surgery. The improved quality of life scores remained improved at one month and lower systolic blood pressures resulted from the program.

NOTE: This was a very small study so few conclusions can be proven and it is unclear whether there were controls. The complete article is not available online. However, the reduced levels of MDA following surgery are important, indicating reduced oxidative damage from surgery. The supplements given seem to reduce the oxidative damage seen after surgery.

PMID: 16713353.

Summary #187.