Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-20-2026

Abstract

ABSTRACT

2: Structured summary

Background

Vasoplegia Syndrome (VS) is a form of distributive shock that is characterized by profound hypotension, low systemic vascular resistance, and high to normal cardiac output during/after cardiopulmonary bypass. VS is associated with increased mortality, morbidity, and length of stay in the intensive care unit.

Objective

The main objectives of this scoping review are to note the available treatment options, characterize potential risk factors, and identify gaps in knowledge for vasoplegia syndrome during and after cardiopulmonary bypass.

Method

This scoping review utilized the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and MetaAnalyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines with a literature search across three databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and CINAHL from August 2025 to December 2025.

Results

A total of 176 articles were identified and after screening 28 articles met inclusion criteria. The included articles were reviewed, summarized, and compared to analyze the pharmacological treatment options for vasoplegia. Medications were categorized by their applicability as first line treatment, adjunctive therapy, rescue therapy, and exploratory options for vasoplegia.

Conclusions

This scoping review provides an overview and study of the current data available concerning pharmacological treatment options for vasoplegia syndrome during and after cardiopulmonary bypass. Current literature demonstrates a variation in data but helps establish the need for a formal registry to assist in determination of treatment options.

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