Dynamic bubble trap can replace an arterial filter during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery

The arterial filter (AF) and the dynamic bubble trap (DBT) reduce the number of air microbubbles passing through these devices. The aim of the study was to confirm that the DBT diminishes microbubbles in the arterial line similar to, or better than, the AF, and can replace it.

In a clinical study, we evaluated 60 patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass surgery, divided into two groups (30 patients each). In the first group, we used an open extracorporeal system, and in the second group, a closed system. For 15 patients in each group, the AF was incorporated, the other 15 patients received the DBT. The microbubbles were counted before and after the AF or DBT, using two-channel-ultrasonic Doppler devices.

The exposure of patients to small bubbles (< 45 microm) is significantly higher in the AF than in the DBT group. The DBT reduces large bubbles (> 45 microm) better than the AF, with a rate exceeding 16%.

The use of the DBT instead of the AF yields higher air microbubble removal efficacy, allowing replacement of the AF, assuming the AF is used for air removal purpose only.