Der Anaesthesist
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Perioperative cardiac morbidity is one of the main challenges to the anaesthesiologist. Because of demographic changes and the increased prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD) in elderly patients, the number of those at risk is increasing. Special attention has to be paid to patients bearing an increased risk where CAD has not been proven preoperatively because they represent the majority. ⋯ The usefulness of alpha-2-blockers is not equally well-proven so far. Prevention of perioperative hypothermia can reduce cardiac risk. In addition, there is increasing evidence that thoracic epidural anaesthesia decreases cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.