Restoration of neutrophil immunocompetence after cardiopulmonary bypass by beta-adrenergic blockers

The immunomodulatory effects of epinephrine on neutrophils remained unchanged irrespective of cardiopulmonary bypass and could contribute to the detrimental effects of epinephrine after heart surgery. The preoperative administration of nonselective β-blockers abolished the immunomodulatory effects of epinephrine in vitro and in patients, and it enhanced the immunocompetence of neutrophils in a context of increased catecholamine levels.