Original Article

The Optimal Preservation of the Patient's Hematocrit When Cardiopulmonary Bypass Is Required

Cardiovascular Surgery Associates, S.C. Milwaukee, Wis.

^* Address correspondence to: David M. Schill, 3609 N. 78th St., Milwaukee, WI 53222

Abstract

The following study demonstrates a method of perfusion management by which a patient can be placed on cardiopulmonary bypass with a minimal drop in the individual's hematocrit while using any extracorporeal tubing pack or oxygenator. This method involves replacing the crystalloid solution used to prime the circuit with the patient's own blood. The process is performed after the patient is heparinized and cannulated, but just prior to initiating bypass. This study includes 100 patients who underwent cardiopulmonary bypass. The average change in the patient's hematocrit 15 minutes into bypass was 3.69, while the average change in the hematocrit at the end of bypass compared to that seen before bypass was 4.31. These patients did not require ultrafiltration techniques or blood donations of any type.