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Disposable filters for microaggregate removal from extracorporeal circulation.
The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
|April 1, 1976
Summary
Blood filters in extracorporeal circuits effectively remove microclots, preventing pulmonary embolism. While causing minor thrombocytopenia and hemolysis, their benefits in reducing embolism significantly outweigh these risks.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular research
- Biomedical engineering
- Veterinary medicine
Background:
- Extracorporeal circuits are vital in various medical procedures.
- Microembolism is a significant risk in extracorporeal circulation.
- Effective blood filtration is crucial for patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy and safety of three commercial blood filters.
- To evaluate the impact of these filters on microclot removal and potential adverse effects.
- To assess the role of blood filters in preventing pulmonary microembolism.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study was conducted using dogs as the animal model.
- Three commercially available blood filters were tested in extracorporeal circuits.
- Dogs were infused with microclots, with and without filters, to assess outcomes.
Main Results:
- All tested blood filters efficiently removed infused microclots.
- Mild thrombocytopenia was observed with all filters.
- Two filters caused minimal hemolysis.
- Dogs without filters showed evidence of pulmonary microembolism post-infusion.
Conclusions:
- Commercial blood filters are effective in removing microclots during extracorporeal procedures.
- The minor adverse effects (thrombocytopenia, hemolysis) are outweighed by the significant benefit of embolism reduction.
- Blood filters are recommended for use in extracorporeal circuits to mitigate the risk of pulmonary microembolism.