Does pulsatile flow improve glucose tolerance during extracorporeal circulation

The present study was designed to determine the effect of pulsatile glow on glucose tolerance during cardiac surgery. Twenty patients were divided into two equal groups; ten patients receiving non-pulsatile bypass and the remaining patients receiving pulsatile flow. Patients receiving pulsatile flow had significantly lower systemic resistance in the intensive care unit. Glucose tolerance, however, was similar in both patient groups. Insulin secretion was impaired and serum glucose remained elevated throughout the period of extracorporeal circulation. We conclude from this study that glucose tolerance is unaffected by pulsatile flow.