Alterations of hemostasis during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) using bubble oxygenators have been previously defined and found to consist of a severe platelet function defect, a primary hyperfibrino(geno)lytic syndrome, and minimal thrombocytopenia. This study compares defects in hemostasis with membrane oxygenators and bubble oxygenators. 30 consecutive patients were studied and all patients studied were undergoing elective coronary artery bypass surgery. Tests of hemostasis included thrombin and reptilase times, protamine corrected thrombin times, soluble fibrin monomer, fibrinogen degradation products, fibrinolytic assays, platelet counts, and tests of platelet function. Studies were drawn pre-bypass, mid-bypass, and 1 hour post bypass. It was found that thrombocytopenia was much less in membrane patients. All patients developed a primary hyperfibrino(geno)lytic syndrome and the degree of this was equal in bubble or membrane oxygenators. Platelet dysfunction also was seen in all patients but was significantly different between the two oxygenation systems. At one hour postop, membrane patients showed no correction of platelet function as assessed by adhesion (14%), while those perfused with bubble oxygenators showed significant correction (67%) at one hour postop.In conclusion, the primary hyperfibrino(geno)lytic syndrome occurring during cardiopulmonary bypass appears to be of equal significance regardless of oxygenation mechanism. Less thrombocytopenia, but more platelet dysfunction is seen with the membrane system.
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