Differential release kinetics of cardiac biomarkers in off-pump coronary bypass

Background Differential release kinetics of the cardiac biomarkers (B-type natriuretic peptide, troponin I, and creatine kinase-MB) following off-pump coronary artery bypass are not well characterized. Methods Biomarker levels were assessed at 6, 24, 48 h, and 1 month preoperatively, in 80 patients who underwent off-pump coronary artery bypass. Results All biomarkers increased within 6 h of surgery. Peak B-type natriuretic peptide levels occurred at 24–48 h in 96% of patients, but only two-thirds had peak troponin I and creatine kinase-MB levels at this time, reflecting different release patterns. Levels of all biomarkers declined within 48 h, but 42% of patients still had B-type natriuretic peptide >100 pg·mL−1 at 1 month. Those with baseline B-type natriuretic peptide > 100 pg·mL−1 had a lower left ventricular ejection fraction (43.6% vs. 55.6%, p