L-carnitine supplementation to prevent postoperative complications after cardiac surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials

Abstract

Preoperative administration of L-carnitine demonstrates meaningful short-term benefits in enhancing CI, LVSWI, and LVEF while reducing the incidence of POAF following cardiac surgery. These findings suggest a potential role for L-carnitine supplementation in optimising perioperative cardiac care, enhancing recovery, and reducing complications following cardiac surgery. However, the existing studies are limited in scope, making it challenging to draw robust conclusions.