[Changes in the shape of erythrocytes during use of extracorporeal circulation]

The behavior of red cell shape of circulating blood was investigated following operations using the heart-lung machine by different quantitative methods. It was discovered, that the schistocytes (light microscopy) and echinocytes (scanning electron microscopy) significantly increases. The changes in erythrocyte shape are comprehended as summary effect of erythrocyte damage by the extracorporeal system and discussed in relation to the loss of phospholipid components of the erythrocyte membrane.