Filtration of Cardiotomy

Microembolization resulting from platelet aggregation, air embolization and infusion of particulate material with stored and coronary suction blood has been implicated in the pathogenesis of certain complications following heart surgery'-s. In previous studies we have noted that particulate microembolization is reduced and platelet function is preserved following cardiopulmonary bypass with a membrane oxygenator when compared to a bubble oxygenator6 , 7 • However, although microembolization resulting from blood oxygenation is reduced with membrane oxygenation, considerable particulate material was found in blood returning to the patient through the cardiotomy return system. In the present study, the filtration characteristics of various devices used in the cardiotomy reservoir system were evaluated. METHODS