Ultrafiltration in control of hematocrit and blood volume during cardiopulmonary bypass

Summary

Ultrafiltration as a means to control hematocrit and blood volume during cardiopulmonary bypass was evaluated in two groups of 15 mongrel dogs. In both groups, the fluid input and urinary output were similar (P> 0.20). The amount of filtrate ranged from 950 to 2600 ml (mean 1740.0±426.5 ml), and resulted in an average intraoperative fluid balance of +424.9±131.4 ml. In the control group the fluid balance was +2693.6±222.4 ml, more than in the Ultrafiltration group (P< 0.00l). The mean hematocrit and hemoglobin before ultrafiltration amounted to 13.22% and 4.96g% respectively, whereas after ultrafiltration the variables increased to 23.33g% and 8.28g% respectively (P< 0.00l). Our results suggest that ultrafiltration is a relatively simple, safe and effective method of hemoconcentration during cardiopulmonary bypass.