Journal of thrombosis and thrombolysis
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Cardiac surgery involving cardiopulmonary bypass is a common yet complex procedure that results in considerable disruption of hemostasis during and following surgery. Despite the relatively common and widespread use of this procedure, there remains a significant peri-operative risk of both thrombosis and hemorrhage in some patients. This is known as the hemostatic defect of cardiopulmonary bypass. ⋯ However there exists a fine line between preventing hemorrhage and promoting thrombosis. Likewise attempts to prevent thrombosis may result in increased hemorrhage. Research into many strategies for minimizing the hemostatic defect of cardiopulmonary bypass is incomplete, with safety and efficacy the subjects of intensive investigation.