Effect of aprotinin on plasma fibronectin levels during cardiopulmonary bypass.

Background: Acute depletion of plasma fibronectin levels has been reported during and after cardiopulmonary bypass; degradation of fibronectin by proteolytic enzymes has been suggested as one of the causes. This study was designed to assess the possible preservation of fibronectin levels by aprotinin during cardiopulmonary bypass.

Methods: Plasma fibronectin levels were evaluated in 19 patients undergoing either elective coronary artery bypass grafting or a valvular heart operation.