Elimination of CO2 insufflation-induced hypercapnia in open heart surgery using an additional venous reservoir.

Objectives: Carbon dioxide (CO2) gas insufflation is used for continuous de-airing during open heart surgery. The aim was to evaluate if an additional separate venous reservoir eliminates CO2 insufflation-induced hypercapnia and keeps sweep gas flow of the oxygenator constant.

Methods: A separate reservoir was used during cardiopulmonary bypass in addition to a standard venous reservoir.

Will high-dose heparin affect blood loss and inflammatory response in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass?

Introduction: We performed a randomized study to investigate if a high versus a standard dose of heparin dose during cardiopulmonary bypass could affect intra- and post-operative bleeding and reduce the inflammatory response.

Methods: A total of 30 patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass grafting were randomized into high or standard dose of heparin during cardiopulmonary bypass. Blood loss was documented peri- and post-operatively, and interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and C3 were measured in conjunction with cardiopulmonary bypass.