Can Statins Improve Outcomes After Isolated Cardiac Valve Surgery? A Systematic Literature Review

Background HMG CoA (3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A) reductase inhibitors, or statins, have been associated with an improvement in outcomes after coronary artery surgery for some time; however, their role in isolated valve surgery ( IVS ) remains undetermined. Hypothesis The pleiotropic effects of statins may produce similar beneficial effects on outcomes after IVS . Methods A systematic review of the literature was performed investigating the role of statins in bioprosthetic valve replacement. Results Nine observational studies (7 retrospective, 2 prospective) incorporating a total of 18 154 patients were found investigating the role of statin therapy in bioprosthetic valve replacement. Conclusions There is presently insufficient evidence to recommend routine statin therapy in IVS , unless concomitant hypercholesterolemia or coronary artery disease is present. A prospective study clearly defining the dose, type, and duration of therapy is now required to finally clarify whether statins alone confer a postoperative benefit in these patients.