The effect of systemic arterial-line leukocyte filtration on the outcome of adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

Background: It is known that cardiopulmonary bypass causes an inflammatory reaction with associated morbidity and mortality. Several anti-inflammatory strategies have been implemented to reduce this response, including leukocyte removal from the circulation using specialized filters.

Objectives: The aim of this randomized clinical study was to assess the impact of arterial-line systemic leukocyte filtration on the postoperative outcome of adult patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery.