Perfusion
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Comparative Study
A pilot study comparing two polymethylpentene extracorporeal membrane oxygenators.
We compared two polymethylpentene oxygenators being used in our unit: the Maquet Quadrox-iD paediatric and the Medos Hilite 800LT. ⋯ According to our study, it seems to us that Medos Hilite 800LT membrane oxygenators demonstrate greater oxygen transfer and CO2 removal capacity than Maquet Quadrox-iD paediatric membrane oxygenators, at a similar cost. These results lead us to conclude that it is reasonable to continue using Medos Hilite 800LT membrane oxygenators. A broader comparison study would be necessary in order to support these initial results.
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Comparative Study
In vitro comparison of two different methods of cell washing.
The storage of red blood cells (RBC) results in increased concentrations of plasma free hemoglobin, potassium, glucose, and lactate, among other undesirable substances. These concentrations continue to increase as RBC products age and can cause deleterious effects to the patient. In the setting of cardiac surgery, the autotransfusion devices are routinely used to wash blood that is shed from the surgical site. ⋯ When compared to the original untreated RBCs, the glucose, lactate, and potassium levels were decreased when washed in an autotranfusion device. Additionally, the free hemoglobin and LDH levels were significantly lower with the Medtronic Autolog cell saver than in the COBE 2991 Cell Processor. Washing the RBC donor units in an autotransfusion device prior to transfusion can effectively attenuate the increases seen in glucose, potassium, free hemoglobin, and LDH associated with RBC storage lesion.
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Comparative Study
Evaluation of the new generation dual-lumen catheter for neonatal ECMO.
The purpose of this study was to compare the newly designed dual-lumen venovenous catheter (VR13, OriGen Biomedical, Austin, TX) with the current dual-lumen catheter (VV12, OriGen Biomedical). ⋯ These findings indicate that the VR13 catheter resulted in levels of recirculation equal to the VV12. Based on resistance measurements, we do not recommend the use of this new catheter beyond 400 ml/min until minor design changes are made.
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Jehovah's Witnesses present a challenge to cardiac surgeons, as quality of care is not only defined by mortality and morbidity, but also by the avoidance of blood transfusions. Over the last years, minimized perfusion circuits (MPC) have contributed substantially to the achievement of this goal in our clinic. Presented is a retrospective analysis of our experience. ⋯ These encouraging results emphasize the role MPCs can play in optimizing the quality of patient care. We hope that this report can serve as a stimulus for similar experiences.
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Review Meta Analysis
Is there any difference between blood and crystalloid cardioplegia for myocardial protection during cardiac surgery? A meta-analysis of 5576 patients from 36 randomized trials.
To compare the efficacy of blood versus crystalloid cardioplegia for myocardial protection in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. ⋯ We found evidence that argues against any superiority in terms of hard outcomes between blood or crystalloid cardioplegia for myocardial protection during cardiac surgery.