Cardiac Procedures in Patients With a Body Mass Index Exceeding 45: Outcomes and Long-Term Results

Extreme obese patients undergoing cardiac surgical procedures have higher perioperative morbidity and mortality compared with a lower BMI group. BMI and preoperative renal insufficiency increase mortality in both groups, whereas transfusion does so only in the extreme obese. These patients can realize acceptable outcomes from cardiac procedures, but continue to suffer from the comorbidities of obesity.