THE EFFECT OF ASCORBIC ACID ON ENDOTHELIAL GLYCOCALYX ALTERATIONS DURING CARDIAC SURGERY

Cardiac surgery is associated with oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, which both contribute to postope­rative organ dysfunction. Vitamin C is a pleiotropic, an­tioxidant, and potentially organ–protective micronutrient. It also influences coagulation and inflammation, and its application might prevent organ damage. Complications after heart surgery have received considerable attention because of their influence on clinical outcomes. This re­view explores the role of vitamin C in protecting the en­dothelial glycocalyx during cardiac surgery. Endothelial glycocalyx is a delicate, gel–like layer lining the blood vessels, vital for vascular stability and microcirculation. Cardiac surgery induces oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, leading to its degradation and increased risk of organ dysfunction. Vitamin C, with its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helps to preserve endothelial glycocalyx integrity. Perioperative vitamin C supplementation improves microcirculation, reduces biomarkers of endothelial glycocalyx damage, and may shorten recovery time after cardiac operations. The evidence supports considering vitamin C as a cost– effective adjunct to improve postoperative outcomes in cardiac patients.