Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2026
Artificial Lung Device Priming for In Situ Fiber Bundle Surface Grafting
Published on: March 28, 2025
Effect of poly (2-methoxyethyl acrylate)-coated oxygenators on haemolysis
M Kocakulak1, T Ozgürtaş, H Ayhan
1Başkent University, Biomedical Engineering Department, PK 48, 06592 Ankara, Turkey. mustafak@baskent.edu.tr
Abstract:
Blood contact with artificial device surfaces and mechanical trauma are two major factors for haemolysis. Poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) (PMEA) is an amphiphilic polymer with a polyethylene chain that is hydrophobic and a mildly hydrophilic tail. PMEA coating has showed positive effects on protein adsorption, platelet loss, platelet aggregation and post-operative bleeding in previous studies. In this study, effects of poly(2-metoxyethyl acrylate) (PMEA)-coated oxygenators on haemolysis was investigated. PMEA-coated (SX18-Capiox) oxygenators were used. Desorbed erythrocyte, free haemoglobin indirect bilirubin and total bilirubin quantities from fibre samples of oxygenators were studied. Erythrocyte, total bilirubin and direct bilirubin values were measured from blood aliquots taken in five different times during cardiopulmonary by-pass (CPB); baseline (T1), during CPB (T2), at the end of CPB (T3), after protamine injection (T4) and in intensive care (T5). In both coated and non-coated oxygenators haemolysis rate was in clinically acceptable safety range. Average desorbed free haemoglobin was 6663 mg/dl from coated and 29.405 mg/dl from non-coated fibres. Average desorbed total bilirubin was 0.0068 mg/dl from coated and 0.023 mg/dl from noncoated fibres. We observed less haemolysis, as reflected by lower desorbed free haemoglobin and indirect bilirubin from coated oxygenators and less decrease in blood erythrocyte number. Blood bilirubin concentration was low in the coated group when compared to the control group. This study describes the relationship between PMEA coating and haemolysis at the blood contacting surface. PMEA coating reduces red blood cell damage during extracorporeal circulation.
Insights
Poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) (PMEA) coating on medical devices significantly reduces blood cell damage and free hemoglobin release during extracorporeal circulation. This biocompatible coating enhances safety by minimizing hemolysis in blood-contacting artificial surfaces.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Medical Device Engineering
- Hematology
Background:
- Hemolysis, or red blood cell damage, is a critical concern with artificial devices due to blood contact and mechanical trauma.
- Poly(2-methoxyethyl acrylate) (PMEA) is an amphiphilic polymer known for its positive effects on blood-device interactions.
- Previous studies suggest PMEA coatings improve protein adsorption, reduce platelet loss, and decrease post-operative bleeding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of PMEA-coated oxygenators on hemolysis during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).
- To quantify the reduction in blood cell damage and related markers with PMEA-coated devices compared to non-coated ones.
Main Methods:
- Utilized PMEA-coated (SX18-Capiox) and non-coated oxygenators in a study setting.
- Measured desorbed free hemoglobin, erythrocyte counts, and bilirubin levels (direct and indirect) at multiple time points during and after CPB.
- Analyzed blood aliquots at baseline, during CPB, end of CPB, post-protamine injection, and in intensive care.
Main Results:
- Hemolysis rates were within clinically acceptable ranges for both coated and non-coated oxygenators.
- Average desorbed free hemoglobin was significantly lower with PMEA-coated oxygenators (6663 mg/dl) compared to non-coated (29,405 mg/dl).
- Lower levels of indirect bilirubin and a less pronounced decrease in erythrocyte count were observed with PMEA-coated devices, indicating reduced red blood cell damage.
Conclusions:
- PMEA coating effectively reduces red blood cell damage during extracorporeal circulation.
- The study demonstrates a clear relationship between PMEA coating and reduced hemolysis at blood-contacting surfaces.
- PMEA-coated oxygenators offer enhanced hemocompatibility, improving safety during CPB procedures.
