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Artificial blood and extracorporeal circulation (ECC)
R Schistek1, G Pohla, E Samhaber
1Department f. Cardiac Surgery, LKA Salzburg, Vienna.
Summary
This study explored artificial blood (AB) for extracorporeal circulation (ECC), finding it safe for calves undergoing surgery. Artificial blood maintained hemoglobin levels and showed potential for clinical use in ECC procedures.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Hematology
Background:
- Extracorporeal circulation (ECC) requires blood substitutes for procedures like cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).
- Developing safe and effective artificial blood (AB) is crucial for clinical applications in cardiac surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and safety of using a stroma-free, polymerized, and pyridoxylated hemoglobin-based artificial blood (AB) in calves undergoing ECC.
- To evaluate the hemodynamic effects and hemoglobin levels following AB administration during CPB.
Main Methods:
- A feasibility study was conducted on 15 calves, divided into a control group (Group I) and two experimental groups (Group II and III) receiving different volumes and concentrations of AB.
- Blood samples were collected preoperatively and at various intervals up to 1 month post-operation.
- Hemodynamic parameters, including aortic mean pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance, were monitored.
Main Results:
- All animals survived the procedure and were successfully weaned from ventilation.
- Calves receiving AB (Groups II and III) maintained higher total hemoglobin levels post-operation compared to the control group.
- Aortic mean pressure increased, and pulmonary vascular resistance significantly elevated in groups receiving AB, correlating with free plasma hemoglobin concentrations.
Conclusions:
- The stroma-free, polymerized, and pyridoxylated hemoglobin-based artificial blood (AB) demonstrated feasibility and safety in calves during ECC.
- While AB maintained hemoglobin levels, the observed increase in pulmonary vascular resistance warrants further investigation regarding its clinical application in CPB.