Hypertonic Saline Solution to Prevent Acute Kidney Injury After Heart Transplantation

The goal of this study is to evaluate if hypertonic saline solution can prevent or attenuate acute kidney injury after heart transplantation in the early postoperative phase.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent complication immediately after heart transplantation (HT), with incidence rates between 40-70%. Several factors contribute to this complication, such as hypervolemia, hyperactivation of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RASS) and low cardiac output. Hypertonic saline solution (HSS) can reduce diuretic resistance, increase urinary output and improve renal function in hypervolemic status such as acute heart failure. Therefore, the investigators hypothesized that the use of HSS could prevent or attenuate AKI after heart transplantation in the early postoperative phase. The investigators aim to randomize 74 patients to receive 150 mL of HSS 3,5% or placebo (saline solution 0,9%) twice daily for 3 days after HT. Renal function, right ventricular echocardiographic parameters and pulmonary artery catheter parameters will be assessed. Patients will be followed-up until 30 days, or death.