Extracorporeal circulation with autogenous oxygenation: hemodynamic and gasometric parameters

Ten experimental perfusions with autogenous oxygenation were performed in mongrel dogs to evaluate the efficacy of the procedure in maintaining normal hemodynamic the efficacy of the procedure in maintaining normal hemodynamic conditions and adequate blood gases for 1 h. Blood was drained from the right and left atria and pumped to the pulmonary artery and aorta, respectively. Two closed circuits containing compliant chambers and roller pumps were utilized. Artificial ventilation with an FiO2 of 50% were used in 5 animals and with an FiO2 level of 30% in the other 5. EKG, cardiac output, aortic, pulmonary artery, and left atrium pressures were registered. Pulmonary tissue was biopsied after perfusion. The heart was electrically fibrillated after perfusion was established and defibrillated at the end of the bypass. The procedure was able to maintain blood gases and pulmonary, aortic, and left atrial pressures within normal ranges during the perfusion. The mobility of the heart and the access to all coronary arteries was excellent. Clinical central nervous system evaluation, EKG tracings, and pulmonary histological exams showed no adverse effects of perfusion. We conclude that the technique employed may present a suitable proceeding for extracorporeal circulation in closed heart surgeries, and its clinical application should be evaluated as a safe and economical alternative.