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Systemic pattern of free radical generation during coronary bypass surgery
S W Davies1, S M Underwood, D G Wickens
1Cardiac Department, London Chest Hospital.
British Heart Journal
|October 1, 1990
Summary
Cardiac surgery can increase oxygen free radical activity, particularly after cardiopulmonary bypass. This study found increased peroxidised and isomerised lipids, indicating free radical activity, in patients post-surgery.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Oxidative Stress
- Myocardial Reperfusion Injury
Background:
- Diffuse impairment of ventricular function post-cardiac surgery is a concern.
- Oxygen-derived free radicals generated during myocardial reperfusion are a potential cause.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of free radical activity in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery.
- To measure indices of free radical activity (peroxidised and isomerised lipids) during and after cardiopulmonary bypass.
Main Methods:
- Studied 15 patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass surgery.
- Collected serial blood samples from systemic arterial, mixed venous, and coronary sinus catheters.
- Assayed for peroxidised and isomerised lipids as markers of free radical activity before, during, and after ischemia.
Main Results:
- No significant changes in free radical indices were observed during ischemic periods.
- A significant increase in free radical indices was detected in arterial and mixed venous blood during reperfusion.
- A non-significant rise in free radical indices was noted in coronary venous blood.
Conclusions:
- Free radical activity is elevated in patients shortly after cardiopulmonary bypass cessation.
- The distribution pattern suggests that tissues other than the myocardium contribute significantly to the observed increase in lipid peroxidation and isomerization.