Disparity in blood activation by two different heparin-coated cardiopulmonary bypass systems

Physiological Changes in Subjects Exposed to Accidental Hypothermia: An Update

Background

Accidental hypothermia (AH) is an unintended decrease in body core temperature (BCT) to below 35°C. We present an update on physiological/pathophysiological changes associated with AH and rewarming from hypothermic cardiac arrest (HCA).

Temperature Regulation and Metabolism

Triggered by falling skin temperature, Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone (TRH) from hypothalamus induces release of Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and Prolactin from pituitary gland anterior lobe that stimulate thyroid generation of triiodothyronine and thyroxine (T4). The latter act together with noradrenaline to induce heat production by binding to adrenergic β3-receptors in fat cells. Exposed to cold, noradrenaline prompts degradation of triglycerides from brown adipose tissue (BAT) into free fatty acids that uncouple metabolism to heat production, rather than generating adenosine triphosphate. If BAT is lacking, AH occurs more readily.

Cardiac Output

Assuming a 7% drop in metabolism per °C, a BCT decrease of 10°C can reduce metabolism by 70% paralleled by a corresponding decline in CO. Consequently, it is possible to maintain adequate oxygen delivery provided correctly performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), which might result in approximately 30% of CO generated at normal BCT.

Liver and Coagulation

AH promotes coagulation disturbances following trauma and acidosis by reducing coagulation and platelet functions. Mean prothrombin and partial thromboplastin times might increase by 40-60% in moderate hypothermia. Rewarming might release tissue factor from damaged tissues, that triggers disseminated intravascular coagulation. Hypothermia might inhibit platelet aggregation and coagulation.

Kidneys

Renal blood flow decreases due to vasoconstriction of afferent arterioles, electrolyte and fluid disturbances and increasing blood viscosity. Severely deranged renal function occurs particularly in the presence of rhabdomyolysis induced by severe AH combined with trauma.

Conclusion

Metabolism drops 7% per °C fall in BCT, reducing CO correspondingly. Therefore, it is possible to maintain adequate oxygen delivery after 10°C drop in BCT provided correctly performed CPR. Hypothermia may facilitate rhabdomyolysis in traumatized patients. Victims suspected of HCA should be rewarmed before being pronounced dead. Rewarming avalanche victims of HCA with serum potassium > 12 mmol/L and a burial time >30 min with no air pocket, most probably be futile.

Rewarming From Hypothermic Cardiac Arrest Applying Extracorporeal Life Support: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction: This systematic review and meta-analysis aims at comparing outcomes of rewarming after accidental hypothermic cardiac arrest (HCA) with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) or/and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Material and Methods: Literature searches were limited to references with an abstract in English, French or German. Additionally, we searched reference lists of included papers. Primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge. We assessed neurological outcome, differences in relative risks (RR) of surviving, as related to the applied rewarming technique, sex, asphyxia, and witnessed or unwitnessed HCA. We calculated hypothermia outcome prediction probability score after extracorporeal life support (HOPE) in patients in whom we found individual data. P < 0.05 considered significant. Results: Twenty-three case observation studies comprising 464 patients were included in a meta-analysis comparing outcomes of rewarming with CPB or/and ECMO. One-hundred-and-seventy-two patients (37%) survived to hospital discharge, 76 of 245 (31%) after CPB and 96 of 219 (44 %) after ECMO; 87 and 75%, respectively, had good neurological outcomes. Overall chance of surviving was 41% higher (P = 0.005) with ECMO as compared with CPB. A man and a woman had 46% (P = 0.043) and 31% (P = 0.115) higher chance, respectively, of surviving with ECMO as compared with CPB. Avalanche victims had the lowest chance of surviving, followed by drowning and people losing consciousness in cold environments. Assessed by logistic regression, asphyxia, unwitnessed HCA, male sex, high initial body temperature, low pH and high serum potassium (s-K+) levels were associated with reduced chance of surviving. In patients displaying individual data, overall mean predictive surviving probability (HOPE score; n = 134) was 33.9 ± 33.6% with no significant difference between ECMO and CPB-treated patients. We also surveyed 80 case reports with 96 victims of HCA, who underwent resuscitation with CPB or ECMO, without including them in the meta-analysis. Conclusions: The chance of surviving was significantly higher after rewarming with ECMO, as compared to CPB, and in patients with witnessed compared to unwitnessed HCA. Avalanche victims had the lowest probability of surviving. Male sex, high initial body temperature, low pH, and high s-K+ were factors associated with low surviving chances.

Trillium™ Biopassive Surface: A New Biocompatible Treatment for Extracorporeal Circulation Circuits

139 patients undergoing cardiac surgery were included in a prospective, randomized trial. Patients were randomly allocated to receive cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with Trillium™ Biopassive Surface (TBS Group) coated oxygenators or conventional circuits (control group).

112 patients were studied with respect to postoperative biochemical profile; a subgroup of 27 patients was studied with respect to perioperative complement (C3a) activation.

Patients in the TBS group demonstrated a significantly lower white blood cell count at the end of the operation (p=0.036) and a significantly higher platelet count the day after the operation (p=0.023) when compared to the control group. C3a was significantly higher (p=0.02) in the TBS group after 30 minutes of CPB, but the C3a increase after protamine administration was significantly less pronounced in the TBS group vs. the control group.

Further studies involving platelet and leukocyte activation are required to better elucidate the action of this new coating in the setting of routine CPB.

How novel structures inform understanding of complement function

During the last decade, the complement field has experienced outstanding advancements in the mechanistic understanding of how complement activators are recognized, what C3 activation means, how protein complexes like the C3 convertases and the membrane attack complex are assembled, and how positive and negative complement regulators perform their function. All of this has been made possible mostly because of the contributions of structural biology to the study of the complement components. The wealth of novel structural data has frequently provided support to previously held knowledge, but often has added alternative and unexpected insights into complement function. Here, we will review some of these findings focusing in the alternative and terminal complement pathways.

Effects of two differently heparin-coated extracorporeal circuits on markers for brain and myocardial dysfunction

Objective: The two most commonly used heparin-coated systems for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) are the Carmeda Bio-Active Surface (CBAS) (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) and the Duraflo II coating (Baxter Healthcare, Irvine, CA, USA). The two surfaces are technically unequal and previous experimental studies have demonstrated disparities in effects on the immune system and blood cells. However, little is known concerning the influence of the two surfaces on markers for brain and myocardial dysfunction.

Methods: Forty patients undergoing elective, primary coronary bypass grafting with CPB were prospectively randomized to either the CBAS system or the Duraflo II circuit. During and after CPB, biological markers for brain dysfunction and myocardial injury were analysed.

Results: Both markers for brain dysfunction S-100B and neuron-specific enolase (NSE) increased significantly during CPB ( p =0.01). The elevation during bypass correlated significantly with the duration of CPB ( r = 0.39 and r= 0.38, respectively, both p< 0.02). NSE was somewhat more elevated in the Duraflo II group at the end of CPB ( p =0.01) and 5 h after CPB ( p= 0.02); for S-100B, there were no intergroup differences. Also, the markers related to myocardial injury, myoglobin and creatine kinase (CK-MB) mass increased during CPB ( p= 0.01), while elevation of troponin-I occurred 5 h after CPB ( p= 0.01). There were no statistically significant intergroup differences. No significant correlation was seen between the release of cardiac markers and the duration of CPB. The clinical course was similar in both groups.

Conclusions: Except for a slightly higher elevation of NSE at the end of CPB and 5 h after CPB in the Duraflo II group, there were no significant differences between the CBAS group and the Duraflo II group concerning markers for brain and myocardial dysfunction.

Development and hemocompatibility testing of nitric oxide releasing polymers using a rabbit model of thrombogenicity

Hemocompatibility is the goal for any biomaterial contained in extracorporeal life supporting medical devices. The hallmarks for hemocompatibility include nonthrombogenicity, platelet preservation, and maintained platelet function. Both in vitro and in vivo assays testing for compatibility of the blood/biomaterial interface have been used over the last several decades to ascertain if the biomaterial used in medical tubing and devices will require systemic anticoagulation for viability. Over the last 50 years systemic anticoagulation with heparin has been the gold standard in maintaining effective extracorporeal life supporting. However, the biomaterial that maintains effective ECLS without the use of any systemic anticoagulant has remained elusive. In this review, the in vivo 4-h rabbit thrombogenicity model genesis will be described with emphasis on biomaterials that may require no systemic anticoagulation for extracorporeal life supporting longevity. These novel biomaterials may improve extracorporeal circulation hemocompatibility by preserving near resting physiology of the major blood components, the platelets and monocytes. The rabbit extracorporeal circulation model provides a complete assessment of biomaterial interactions with the intrinsic coagulation players, the circulating platelet and monocytes. This total picture of blood/biomaterial interaction suggests that this rabbit thrombogenicity model could provide a standardization for biomaterial hemocompatibility testing.

Effects of albumin and synthetic polypeptide-coated oxygenators on IL-1, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-10 in open heart surgery

BACKGROUND

In this study, we have tried to demonstrate the effects of coating style used in oxygenators on various hematologic and clinical parameters.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-seven patients were included in the study, who had undergone operations because of elective coronary artery disease. Albumin-coated oxygenator was used in Group I. In Group II, a synthetic polypeptide-coated oxygenator was used. C1-inhib (complement), C3c, C4, interleukins (IL-1β, IL2, IL-6, IL-10), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels were examined at four different time intervals. Hemoglobin, hematocrit, leukocyte and platelet counts, drainage, and transfused blood volumes were analyzed.

RESULTS

Albumin levels were significantly lower in Group I than those in Group II 5 minutes after the removal of the cross-clamp. Twenty-four hours after the surgery, Group I patients also had a significantly higher white blood cell count compared to Group II patients. TNF-α levels in Group I were always expressed in considerably higher amounts than those in Group II. IL-6 levels were significantly higher in Group I, but IL-10 levels were observed to be higher in Group II (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Synthetic polypeptide-coated advanced technology, which employed oxygenators, had an important attenuator effect on acute phase reactants and also on the inflammatory response.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: Coming to an ICU near you

Extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation has come of age after publication of the CESAR trial and the experience of its use during the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic, showing its increasing benefit for the treatment of hypoxaemic respiratory failure and combined cardiovascular and respiratory failure, including post-cardiac arrest. The article reviews the evidence for this technology and its indications, modes, methods, complications and recent advances. The authors suggest that ECMO will be used increasingly, even in non-cardiac specialist centres.

Perioperative blood transfusion and blood conservation in cardiac surgery: the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and The Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists clinical practice guideline

BACKGROUND

A minority of patients having cardiac procedures (15% to 20%) consume more than 80% of the blood products transfused at operation. Blood must be viewed as a scarce resource that carries risks and benefits. A careful review of available evidence can provide guidelines to allocate this valuable resource and improve patient outcomes.

METHODS

We reviewed all available published evidence related to blood conservation during cardiac operations, including randomized controlled trials, published observational information, and case reports. Conventional methods identified the level of evidence available for each of the blood conservation interventions. After considering the level of evidence, recommendations were made regarding each intervention using the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology classification scheme.

RESULTS

Review of published reports identified a high-risk profile associated with increased postoperative blood transfusion. Six variables stand out as important indicators of risk: (1) advanced age, (2) low preoperative red blood cell volume (preoperative anemia or small body size), (3) preoperative antiplatelet or antithrombotic drugs, (4) reoperative or complex procedures, (5) emergency operations, and (6) noncardiac patient comorbidities. Careful review revealed preoperative and perioperative interventions that are likely to reduce bleeding and postoperative blood transfusion. Preoperative interventions that are likely to reduce blood transfusion include identification of high-risk patients who should receive all available preoperative and perioperative blood conservation interventions and limitation of antithrombotic drugs. Perioperative blood conservation interventions include use of antifibrinolytic drugs, selective use of off-pump coronary artery bypass graft surgery, routine use of a cell-saving device, and implementation of appropriate transfusion indications. An important intervention is application of a multimodality blood conservation program that is institution based, accepted by all health care providers, and that involves well thought out transfusion algorithms to guide transfusion decisions.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on available evidence, institution-specific protocols should screen for high-risk patients, as blood conservation interventions are likely to be most productive for this high-risk subset. Available evidence-based blood conservation techniques include (1) drugs that increase preoperative blood volume (eg, erythropoietin) or decrease postoperative bleeding (eg, antifibrinolytics), (2) devices that conserve blood (eg, intraoperative blood salvage and blood sparing interventions), (3) interventions that protect the patient's own blood from the stress of operation (eg, autologous predonation and normovolemic hemodilution), (4) consensus, institution-specific blood transfusion algorithms supplemented with point-of-care testing, and most importantly, (5) a multimodality approach to blood conservation combining all of the above.

Low-dose versus high-dose heparinization during arteriovenous carbon dioxide removal

The purpose of this study was to compare low-dose (LD) and high-dose (HD) systemic heparinization in a prospective randomized study of arteriovenous carbon dioxide removal (AVCO2R) during acute respiratory distress syndrome, using a commercially available heparin-coated oxygenator. Adult sheep (n = 13) received an LD50 smoke inhalation and 40% TBSA third degree cutaneous flame burn injury. At 40-48 h post-injury, animals underwent cannulation of the carotid artery and jugular vein and were then randomized to HD heparin (activated clotting time, ACT > 300s, n = 6) and LD heparin (ACT < 200s, n =7) and placed on AVCO2R for approximately 72 h using an oxygenator with the Trillium Bio-Passive Surface. Mean ACTs were significantly different, as expected (HD: 446 +/- 26s, LD: 213 +/- 12s, p < 0.05). AVCO2R shunt flow averaged approximately 13% of cardiac output with mean CO2 removal similar in HD and LD, p = NS. The hematocrit, platelet count, and fibrin degradation products for the two groups were not different. No differences in thrombosis or bleeding were noted. In conclusion, LD systemic heparin (ACT < 200s) with a heparin-coated oxygenator does not increase thrombogenicity during AVCO2R for smoke/burn-induced severe lung injury in sheep.

Heparin-coated extracorporeal circulation with full and low dose heparinization: comparison of thrombin related coagulatory effects

Thrombin related coagulatory effects of a heparin-coated cardiopulmonary bypass system combined with full and low dose systemic heparinization were investigated in a prospective, randomized study in coronary bypass surgery patients. One hundred nineteen patients were divided into 3 groups. Group A (n = 39) had a standard uncoated extracorporeal circulation (ECC) set, and systemic heparin was administered in an initial dose of 400 IU/kg body weight. During ECC activated clotting time (ACT) was maintained at > or =480 s. Group B (n = 42) had the same ECC set completely coated with low molecular weight heparin. Intravenous heparin was given in the same dose as in Group A, and ACT was kept at the same level. Group C (n = 38) had the same coated ECC set as Group B, but intravenous heparin was reduced to 150 IU/kg, and during ECC, ACT was set to be > or =240 s. The same ECC components were used in all 3 groups including roller pumps, coronary suction, and an open cardiotomy reservoir. Thrombin generation as indicated by F1/F2 was significantly elevated at an ECC duration >60 min if heparin-coated ECC combined with low dose systemic heparinization was employed. Complexed thrombin (TAT) was significantly elevated after administration of protamine. Release of D-dimers indicating fibrinolysis was not significantly different between groups. Signs of clinical thromboembolism, i.e., postoperative neurological deficit, occurred in 2 patients in Group A and 1 patient in Group C. We conclude that heparin-coated extracorporeal circulation combined with reduced systemic heparinization intraoperatively leads to significantly increased thrombin generation, but not to increased fibrinolysis.

Comparison of two heparin-coated extracorporeal circuits with reduced systemic anticoagulation in routine coronary artery bypass operations

OBJECTIVES

The use of heparin-coated circuits for cardiopulmonary bypass attenuates the postperfusion inflammatory response. Postoperative bleeding and the need for allogeneic blood transfusions are reduced, particularly in combination with lowered systemic anticoagulation. The two most commonly used heparin-coated systems are the Carmeda BioActive Surface (Medtronic Inc, Minneapolis, Minn) and the Duraflo II coating (Baxter Healthcare Corp, Bentley Laboratories Division, Irvine, Calif). The 2 surfaces are technically unequal, and previous experimental studies have demonstrated disparities in effects on the immune system and the blood cells. However, no larger comparative studies of relevant clinical end points have thus far been reported.

METHODS

Over a 24-month period, all patients undergoing coronary artery bypass were prospectively randomized to one of the two heparin-coated circuits. Altogether, 1336 consecutive patients were included. The heparin dose was reduced in all cases, with an activated coagulation time of more than 250 seconds. Clinical data were consecutively collected and stored on a computer for comparative analyses.

RESULTS

There were no statistically significant differences in any demographic or operative parameters. The Duraflo II patients required less heparin to keep the target-activated clotting time, confirming the previous finding of some leakage of heparin from the surface to the circulation. Otherwise, there were no significant differences in time for ventilatory support (Duraflo II, 1.7 +/- 1.3 hours; Carmeda BioActive Surface, 1.6 +/- 1.0 hours; P =.37), amount of postoperative mediastinal drainage (Duraflo II, 665 +/- 257 mL; Carmeda BioActive Surface, 688 +/- 243 mL; P =.07), need for allogeneic blood-plasma transfusions (Duraflo II, 4.2% of the patients; Carmeda BioActive Surface, 4.4% of the patients; P =.93), or hemoglobin concentration at hospital discharge (Duraflo II, 120 +/- 13 g/L; Carmeda BioActive Surface, 119 +/- 13 g/L; P =.08). The effects on renal function and platelets were similar, as were the incidences of perioperative myocardial infarction (Duraflo II, 1.5%; Carmeda BioActive Surface, 1.5%; P =.96), stroke (Duraflo II, 1.3%; Carmeda BioActive Surface, 1.2%; P =.47), and hospital mortality (Duraflo II, 1 [0.14%] patient; Carmeda BioActive Surface, 3 [0.45%] patients; P =.31).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite differences in technology, complexity, and effects on biologic markers, no clinical differences were observed between the Carmeda BioActive Surface system and the Duraflo II coating after coronary artery bypass operations. The overall clinical results were favorable in both groups, confirming the safety and feasibility of routine use of heparin-coated circuits in combination with reduced systemic anticoagulation.

Neurological and general outcome in low-risk coronary artery bypass patients using heparin coated circuits

OBJECTIVE

The clinical significance of heparin coating in cardiopulmonary bypass has previously been investigated. However, few studies have addressed the possible influence on brain function and memory disturbances.

METHODS

Three hundred low-risk patients exposed to coronary bypass surgery were randomised into three groups according to type of heparin coating: Carmeda Bioactive Surface, Baxter Duraflo II and a control group. Outcome was determined from a number of clinically oriented parameters, including a detailed registry of postoperative deviations from the normal postoperative course. Brain damage was assessed through S100 release and memory tests, including a questionnaire follow-up.

RESULTS

Clinical outcome was similar for all groups. Blood loss (Duraflo only), transfusion requirements and postoperative creatinine elevation were reduced in the heparin-coated groups. A lower incidence of atrial fibrillation was noted in the Duraflo group. Heparin coating did not uniformly attenuate the release of S100 or the degree of memory impairment.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with heparin coating and a reduced dose of heparin seems to be safe. Clinical outcome and neurological injury seem not to be associated with type of heparin coating used for CPB. However, blood loss and transfusion requirements may be reduced.

Biocompatibility of heparin-coated extracorporeal bypass circuits: new heparin bonded bioline system

Biocompatibility of a new type of heparin-coated cardiopulmonary bypass equipment, the Bioline, was evaluated in coronary artery bypass surgery cases. The heparin-coated (H) group (n = 15; Quadrox Bioline oxygenator/reservior and Carmeda BioMedicus BP-80 centrifugal pump) was compared with the nonheparin-coated (N) group (n = 12; uncoated, otherwise similar oxygenator, centrifugal pump, tubing, and filter set). Both groups used full systemic heparinization. The peak values of neutrophil elastase, C3a, IL-6, and IL-8 at 2 h after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), and C3a levels at the end of CPB and at 2 h after CPB were significantly reduced in the H group compared with those of the N group. However, no statistically significant intergroup differences were observed in thrombin-antithrombin complex, D-dimer, beta-thromboglobulin, or platelet factor-4. No significant differences were observed in hemostasis time, postoperative 12 h blood loss, required amount of blood transfusion, or intubation time. In conclusion, the Bioline demonstrated partially improved biocompatibility, in terms of leukocyte and complement activation, and proinflammatory cytokine production. However, it did not improve platelet activation, coagulation, or fibrinolysis cascade under full systemic heparinization. As a result, the clinical beneficial impact seemed to be the minimum.

Effects of new polymer-coated extracorporeal circuits on biocompatibility during cardiopulmonary bypass

An inflammatory response due to bioincompatibility of extracorporeal circuits is a major clinical issue during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). By using a swine model, we determined whether new polymer-coated circuits, the blood-contacting surfaces of which are coated with poly(2-methoxyethylacrylate) (PMEA), would reduce the inflammatory response during CPB. Plasma bradykinin levels and the percentages of CD35-positive monocytes in PMEA-coated circuits were significantly lower than those in uncoated circuits during CPB. The amount of proteins adsorbed on the PMEA-coated circuits was significantly lower than that on the uncoated circuits (0.30 microg/cm2 versus 3.42 microg/ cm2). Almost no IgG, IgM, or C3c/d was detected in proteins adsorbed on the PMEA-coated circuits although these proteins were clearly detected in proteins adsorbed on the uncoated circuits. We concluded that PMEA coating could reduce complement activation during CPB by suppressing the adsorption of IgG and IgM, which activate C3 via the classical pathway, on the surface of the circuits.

A novel enzyme immunoassay for plasma thrombospondin. Comparison with beta-thromboglobulin as platelet activation marker in vitro and in vivo

A novel enzyme immunoassay for plasma thrombospondin (TSP) based on commercially available monoclonal antibodies was established. The following conditions for correct collection and preservation of blood samples were required: venipuncture directly into a vacutainer containing citrate, theophylline, adenosine and dipyridamole, storage on ice, and separation of plasma within 30 minutes. Thereafter, the plasma TSP concentration remained constant at room temperature and after five times of freezing and thawing. Both inter- and intraassay variation coefficients were 5%. The lower detection limit was 20 microg/L. Median TSP concentration among 40 healthy blood donors was 43 microg/L, slightly lower than previously published. The assay is valid, reliable, and has certain advantages compared with previously published methods. TSP and beta-thromboglobulin (BTG) were then compared as platelet activation and biocompatibility markers in vivo: 23 patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB); and in vitro: effect of coating polyvinyl chloride with heparin. The kinetic patterns of TSP and BTG were markedly different in vivo but virtually identical in vitro, explained by different in vivo clearance mechanisms during CPB. We conclude that BTG is superior to TSP for evaluation of platelet activation during in vivo CPB, whereas TSP and BTG are virtually identical as markers in vitro.

Coating-techniques to improve the hemocompatibility of artificial devices used for extracorporeal circulation

OBJECTIVE

Extracorporeal circulation procedures have been shown to induce complement and leukocyte activation, release of endotoxin and inflammatory mediators, including cytokines, nitric oxide, oxygen free radicals, and platelet activating factors. The contact between the blood and the various artificial surfaces of the extracorporeal system results in an unspecific post-perfusion syndrome. For diminishing these negative side effects several coating-techniques have been developed to create devices with improved hemocompatibility.

METHODS

This review deals with the current knowledge of heparin-coated and otherwise surface-modified perfusion systems. The pathway how heparin-coated surfaces work is discussed and techniques for surface-coatings, both clinically introduced as well as newly developed are presented.

RESULTS

Numerous clinical studies compared heparin-coated versus non-coated circuits. Heparin-bonded devices showed lessened humoral and cellular activation, in particular a reduced complement activation with a reduced inflammatory post-perfusion syndrome. Also platelet protection and more favorable post-operative lung function are of particular note. Recent clinical trials demonstrated shortened hospital stays, less drainage bleeding, and reduced cerebral complications using heparin-coated oxygenation systems. The diminished expression of the leukocyte adhesion molecules CD 11b/c in CBAS devices points to a decreased activation of neutrophils. In addition, one research group found a reduced production of oxygen radicals. Heparin-bonding minimizes oxygenator failure by a significant reduced pressure gradient across the oxygenator, probably caused by decreased fibrin and platelet deposition at the hollow fiber surfaces. A meta analysis examined the impact of heparin-bonded systems on clinical outcomes and resulting costs. Using heparin-bonded circuits led to total cost savings from US $1000 to 3000. Several authors demonstrated reduced blood loss and better clinical outcome by reduction of systemic heparinization and the employment of heparin-coated devices.

CONCLUSION

Above and beyond the long-term applications, routine heart operations have also markedly begun to utilize heparin-coated devices. This trend will assuredly continue in the coming years and is an important step toward higher hemocompatibility of blood-contacting surfaces in the ECC device. Heparin-coatings are merely the beginning of improved hemocompatibility for all materials that come into contact with human blood or tissues. Intelligent materials with almost completely physiological surfaces will be at the surgeon's disposal within the next few years.

In vitro evaluation of new surface coatings for extracorporeal circulation

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) exposes blood to large, foreign surfaces. This exposure may activate the cellular and humoral inflammatory systems, resulting in inflammatory reactions and organ dysfunction. Coating the inner surfaces of the bypass circuit may help alleviate these side-effects. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of two new surface treatments on blood cell and complement activation. Oxygenator and tubing sets coated with synthetic polymers (n = 7) or heparin (n = 7) were compared to uncoated sets (n = 7) in an in vitro model of CPB. The circuits were run at 4 l/min and recirculated for 120 min. The inflammatory response was assessed at regular intervals by platelet counts, and activation of complement, leucocytes and platelets. We found that the median platelet counts decreased from 127 to 122 x 10(9)/l (not significant, NS) in the synthetic polymer sets, from 96 to 88 x 10(9)/l (NS) in the heparin-coated sets, and from 93 to 54 x 10(9)/l (p < 0.01) in the uncoated sets after 2 h of recirculation. There were significant differences in platelet counts between the coated sets and the uncoated set at end of experiments (p < 0.05). Beta-thromboglobulin (BTG) concentrations increased in the synthetic polymer sets from 166 to 352 ng/ml (p < 0.01), in the heparin coated sets from 336 to 1168 ng/ml (p < 0.01), and in the uncoated sets from 301 to 3149 ng/ml (p < 0.01) after 2 h of recirculation. The differences in BTG at termination of the experiments were significant among all three sets (p < 0.05). Myeloperoxidase (MPO) concentrations in the synthetic polymer sets increased from 63 to 86 micrograms/l (p < 0.01), in the heparin-coated sets from 90 to 208 micrograms/l (p < 0.01), and in the uncoated sets from 122 to 513 micrograms/l (p < 0.01) after 2 h of recirculation. The differences in MPO at termination of the experiments were significant among all three groups (p < 0.01). There were no significant differences at termination of the experiments among the three sets regarding complement activation as measured by C3 activation products and the terminal complement complex. We conclude that in the current in vitro model of a CPB circuit, the synthetic polymer coating and the heparin coating caused significantly less platelet loss and granulocyte and platelet activation than the uncoated surface (p < 0.05). The synthetic polymer coating caused significantly less granulocyte and platelet activation than the heparin coating (p < 0.05). There was moderate complement activation within each group, but no significant differences among the three groups.

Inflammatory response to cardiopulmonary bypass using two different types of heparin-coated extracorporeal circuits

Previous reports have highlighted the disparity in biocompatibility of two differently engineered heparin coatings during the cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) procedure. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the impact of the difference in haemocompatibility provided by either the Duraflo II equipment or the Carmeda equipment in the terminal inflammatory response observed after coronary artery surgery. Thirty patients were randomly allocated to two groups to be operated on using either Duraflo II equipment (group I) or Carmeda equipment (group 2) for extracorporeal circulation (ECC). Initial inflammatory response was assessed by terminal complement complex activation (SC5b-9). The late inflammatory response observed in the postoperative period was assessed by measuring cytokine production (tumour factor necrosis (TNF alpha), interleukin IL-6, interleukin IL-8) and circulating concentrations of adhesion molecules (ELAM-1, ICAM-1). The release of SC5b-9 after CPB and after protamine administration was lower in group 2 than in group 1 (p = 0.0002 and p = 0.006, respectively). A significant production of cytokines was detected in both groups with peak values observed within the time range of 4-6 h after the start of CPB.

Heparin-bonded circuits: clinical outcomes and costs

The aim of this study was to use meta-analysis to combine the results of numerous studies and examine the impact of heparin-bonded circuits on clinical outcomes and the resulting costs. Heparin-bonded circuits, both ionically and covalently bonded, are examined separately. The results of the study provide evidence that heparin-bonded circuits result in improved clinical outcomes when compared to the identical nonheparin-bonded circuits. These improved clinical outcomes result in subsequent lower costs per patient with their use. However, differences are apparent in the significance and magnitude of these outcomes between ionically and covalently bonded circuits. Covalently bonded circuits provide a greater magnitude and significance of improvement in clinical outcomes than ionically bonded circuits. Total cost savings can be expected to be three times greater with covalently bonded circuits ($3231 versus $1068). It was concluded that the choice regarding the use of a heparin-bonded circuits and the type of heparin-bonded circuit used has the potential to alter clinical outcomes and subsequent costs. Cost consideration cannot be ignored, but clinical benefits should be the main rationale for the choice of cardiopulmonary bypass circuit. This analysis provides evidence that clinical benefits and cost savings can both be derived from use of the same technology-covalently bonded circuits.

Inflammatory response to cardiopulmonary bypass: mechanisms involved and possible therapeutic strategies

BACKGROUND

Recent study of the inflammatory reactions occurring during and after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) has improved our understanding of the involvement of the inflammatory cascade in perioperative injury. However, the exact mechanisms of this complex response remain to be fully determined.

METHODS

Literature on the inflammatory response to CPB was reviewed to define current knowledge on the possible pathways and mediators involved, and to discuss recent developments of therapeutic interventions aimed at attenuating the inflammatory response to CPB.

RESULTS

CPB has been shown to induce complement activation, endotoxin release, leukocyte activation, the expression of adhesion molecules, and the release of many inflammatory mediators including oxygen-free radicals, arachidonic acid metabolites, cytokines, platelet-activating factor, nitric oxide, and endothelins. Therapies aimed at interfering with the inflammatory response include the administration of pharmacologic agents such as corticosteroids, aprotinin, and antioxidants, as well as modification of techniques and equipment by the use of heparin-coated CPB circuits, intraoperative leukocyte depletion, and ultrafiltration.

CONCLUSIONS

Improved understanding of the inflammatory reactions to CPB can lead to improved patient outcome by enabling the development of novel therapies aimed at limiting this response.

Cell activation and thrombin generation in heparin bonded cardiopulmonary bypass circuits using a novel in vitro model

OBJECTIVE

It is generally agreed that when the blood contact surfaces of a cardiopulmonary bypass circuit are treated with a layer of heparin molecules the activation of the humoral pathways is attenuated. However, there is still debate as to whether heparin-bonded circuits reduce thrombin generation. This study aims to examine the effects of immobilized heparin on cell activation and thrombin generation in a novel, well controlled model of cardiopulmonary bypass.

METHODS

The model used consisted of a heparin-bonded and a non-bonded cardiopulmonary bypass circuit perfused in tandem with the same unit of fresh heparinized (3.3 U/ml) human blood for a period of 6 h. Samples were taken for analysis from the bag just prior to perfusion and at 30, 60, 120 and 360 min of perfusion. Whole blood was used to analyse platelet and white blood cell count, haematocrit and activated coagulation time. Plasma samples were prepared for batch analysis of the cell activation markers p-selectin, elastase and interleukin-8, and the thrombin generation markers thrombin-antithrombin and prothrombin fragment F1 + 2. A sample of tubing was taken from each circuit at the end of the perfusion and prepared for visualization by scanning electron microscopy.

RESULTS

Platelet counts were significantly reduced in the non-bonded circuits compared with the heparin-bonded circuits at 30 (22 versus 200 x 10(9)/L P < 0.01), 60 (26 versus 193 x 10(9)/L P < 0.01) and 120 min (28 versus 193 x 10(9)/L P < 0.01) as were white blood cell counts at 30(1.5 versus 2.7 x 10(9)/L P < 0.01), 60 (0.9 versus 2.4 x 10(9)/L P < 0.01), 120 (0.9 versus 1.8 x 10(9)/L P < 0.01) and 360 min (0.4 versus 0.9 x 10(9)/L P < 0.05). The concentration of p-selectin was found to be significantly higher in the non-bonded circuits than in the heparin-bonded circuits at 30 (37 versus 29 ng/ml P < 0.01), 60 (37 versus 28 ng/ml P < 0.01). 120 (42 versus 27 ng/ml P < 0.01) and at 360 min (72 versus 46 ng/ml P < 0.01). Elastase was elevated in the non-bonded circuits at 30 (570 versus 145 micrograms/l P < 0.01), 60 (646 versus 278 micrograms/l P < 0.01) and 120 min (613 versus 403 micrograms/l P < 0.05) and interleukin-8 at 120 (705 versus 520 pg/ml P < 0.05) and 360 min (11326 versus 9910 pg/ml P < 0.05). A similar picture was found for the thrombin generation markers. Thrombin-antithrombin complexes were raised in the non-bonded circuits compared with heparin-bonded circuits at 60 (24 versus 13 micrograms/l P < 0.05) and 120 min (46 versus 17 micrograms/l P < 0.05) as was prothrombin fragment F1 + 2 at 30 (1.1 versus 0.7 nmol/l P < 0.01), 60 (1.3 versus 0.7 nmol/l P < 0.01), 120 (1.8 versus 0.9 nmol/l P < 0.01) and 360 min (15.0 versus 13.6 nmol/l P < 0.05). Scanning electron microscopy revealed a greater amount of adherent material on the non-bonded surface relative to the heparin-bonded surface.

CONCLUSIONS

In a cardiopulmonary bypass circuit perfused with human blood the activation of platelets and white blood cells has been seen to be significantly reduced in the presence of a heparin-bonded surface. Thrombin generation due to contact activation of the intrinsic coagulation pathway is also reduced.

Endothelin-1 and neutrophil activation during heparin-coated cardiopulmonary bypass

BACKGROUND

Heparin-coated circuits attenuate the systemic inflammatory response to cardiopulmonary bypass. The present study compares two different heparin coatings in terms of the release of endothelin-1 and neutrophil glycoproteins.

METHODS

Forty low-risk patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting were investigated, having cardiopulmonary bypass with a Duraflo II heparin-coated circuit (n = 10), an identical but uncoated circuit (n = 10), a Carmeda BioActive Surface heparin-coated circuit (n = 10), or an identical but uncoated circuit (n = 10). A standard systemic heparin dosage was used in all patients. Endothelin-1 and the neutrophil glycoproteins lactoferrin and myeloperoxidase were quantified throughout the operation and 3 hours postoperatively.

RESULTS

Enhanced plasma levels of endothelin-1, lactoferrin, and myeloperoxidase were observed during and after uncoated cardiopulmonary bypass, but this was not associated with clinical side effects. Compared with the respective uncoated controls, Duraflo II attenuated only the lactoferrin levels, whereas Carmeda BioActive Surface was associated with lower levels of both endothelin-1, lactoferrin, and myeloperoxidase. Of the two heparin coatings, Carmeda BioActive Surface proved more effective than Duraflo II in attenuating the levels of these substances.

CONCLUSIONS

The plasma levels of endothelin-1, lactoferrin, and myeloperoxidase increase during cardiopulmonary bypass in coronary artery bypass grafting, but this has no clinical side effects in low-risk patients. The increase is attenuated using heparin-coated extracorporeal circuits, and then more effectively by Carmeda BioActive Surface than by Duraflo II.

The inflammatory response and extracorporeal circulation

Defining the cause of organ and tissue dysfunction associated with the use of perfusion systems will produce methods of prevention or treatment and improve patient outcome. The problem is the plethora of triggers, effectors, and mediators in this process, which can now be measured. Each new measureable compound becomes another biochemical "smoking gun" without physiological data to show any relevance to the human problem. This review critically compares and contrasts the role of certain, largely novel, initiation, amplification, and cytotoxic mechanisms in the inflammatory response of the myocardium and pulmonary systems after a period of cardiopulmonary bypass. The available evidence strongly points to the process being different for each of these tissue beds. These data suggest that ensuring normal lung and heart functions after surgery will require separate therapeutic strategies.

Effects of heparin coating on the expression of CD11b, CD11c and CD62L by leucocytes in extracorporeal circulation in vitro

Leucocyte adhesion molecules are involved in the leucocyte-endothelial interaction and in the activation of coagulation and binding of complement and endotoxin. Thus, they are important in inflammation, systemic acute phase reaction, ischaemia reperfusion injury and resistance against infections. The expression of the adhesion molecules CD11b, CD11c and CD62L on leucocytes and changes in plasma products of neutrophil activation (myeloperoxidase, lactoferrin) and complement activation (C3bc, SC5b-9 (TCC)) were examined in an extracorporeal circulation (ECC) model and the effects of Carmeda bioactive surface (CBAS) heparin coating (n = 7) of the circuits were compared to uncoated control circuits (n = 5). In this model, new 'unactivated' cells mobilized from the bone marrow could not interfere with descriptive measures of cell activation as seen in in vivo studies. In the control group, CD11b and CD11c were upregulated on monocytes and granulocytes during ECC, whereas CD62L was downregulated. Heparin coating reduced the increase in CD11b and CD11c on granulocytes (p < 0.02 at 2 h), but the delayed increase in CD11c on monocytes and the delayed downregulation of CD62L on granulocytes and monocytes did not reach statistical significance. Further, heparin coating also reduced the initial decrease in the absolute cell counts of monocytes and granulocytes (p = 0.01 at 2 h), reflecting reduced adhesion to the oxygenator/tubing. The increases in plasma myeloperoxidase, lactoferrin, C3bc and TCC were lower in the heparin-coated group compared to the control group. The increases in plasma myeloperoxidase and lactoferrin correlated significantly to the increase in CD11b (r = 0.71, p = 0.02 and r = 0.64, p = 0.05, respectively) and CD11c (r = 0.72, p = 0.008 and r = 0.72, p = 0.008, respectively) on granulocytes, suggesting interacting regulatory pathways in the process of neutrophil adhesion, activation and degranulation. Thus, in this in vitro ECC model, heparin coating of oxygenator/tubing sets reduced leucocyte activation and leucocyte adhesion-related phenomena.

Duraflo II coating of cardiopulmonary bypass circuits reduces complement activation, but does not affect the release of granulocyte enzymes : a European multicentre study

OBJECTIVE

This study was carried out to: (a) compare complement and granulocyte activation during cardiac operations in patients operated with cardiopulmonary bypass coated with heparin by the Duraflo II method, with activation in patients operated with uncoated circuits; and (b) relate complement, and granulocyte activation to selected adverse effects.

METHODS

In a multicentre study among Rikshospitalet, Ullevaal Hospital in Norway and Uppsala University Hospital in Sweden, plasma concentrations of the complement activation products C4b/iC4b/C4c (C4bc), C3b/iC3b/C3c (C3bc), the terminal SC5b-9 complement complex (TCC), and the granulocyte proteins myeloperoxidase and lactoferrin were assessed in two groups of patients undergoing aortocoronary bypass. Seventy-six patients underwent surgery operated with circuits coated by the Duraflo II heparin coating and 75 uncoated circuits. The same amount of systemic heparin was administered to all patients.

RESULTS

In both groups a significant increase in C4bc was first seen by the end of operation, from 86.7 +/- 12.5 to 273.0 +/- 277.4 nM in controls and from 86.9 +/- 18.5 to 320.2 +/- 190.5 nM in the control group, confirming previous documentation that the classical pathway is not activated during CPB, but as a consequence of protamin administration. The formation of C4bc did not differ significantly between the two groups. In the uncoated group the C3bc concentration increased from 124.0 +/- 15.3 to a maximum of 1176.1 +/- 64.7 nM (P < 0.01) and in the coated group it increased from 129.8 +/- 16.1 to a maximum of 1019.4 +/- 54.9 nM (P < 0.01) during CPB. Summary values but not peak values differed significantly between the groups. In the uncoated group the TCC concentration increased from 0.52 +/- 0.03 to a maximum value of 8.09 +/- 0.57 AU/ml (P < 0.01) while in the coated group the TCC concentration increased from a baseline of 0.53 +/- 0.03 to a peak value of 5.2 +/- 0.24 AU/ml (P <0.01). The difference between the peak values was statistically significant (P = 0.00002). In both groups a significant increase in myeloperoxidase and lactoferrin release was observed by the end of operation. There was no difference in myeloperoxidase or lactoferrin release between the two groups. TCC levels were compared to the occurrence of perioperative infarction, development of lung or renal failure, postoperative bleeding, time on ventilator and days in hospital. Three patients developed perioperative infarction; the peak levels of TCC were significantly higher in these patients than in the 148 patients that did not develop infarction. The reduction in TCC formation in the heparin-coated group was not associated with differences in any of the other clinical parameters. Few adverse effects occurred in the study. The peak values of C3bc were higher in the patients needing inotropic support that in those who did not, the relevance of this finding remains uncertain.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that the Duraflo II heparin coating reduces complement activation, particularly TCC formation, during CPB, but not the release of specific neutrophil granule enzymes. No certain correlation was established between complement and granulocyte activation and clinical outcome.

Attenuation of changes in leukocyte surface markers and complement activation with heparin-coated cardiopulmonary bypass

BACKGROUND

The inflammatory response induced by cardiopulmonary bypass can result in severe organ dysfunction in some patients. This postperfusion response is caused mainly by contact between blood and the foreign surface of the cardiopulmonary bypass equipment and includes adhesion of leukocytes to vascular endothelium, which precedes a series of events that mediate inflammatory damage to tissues.

METHODS

Low-risk patients accepted for coronary artery bypass grafting were randomized to operation with the cardiopulmonary bypass surface either completely heparin coated (Duraflo II) or uncoated. There were 12 patients in each group. Blood plasma sampled during cardiopulmonary bypass was analyzed for complement activation (C3bc and terminal SC5b-9 complement complex) and neutrophil activation (lactoferrin and myeloperoxidase). In addition, neutrophils, monocytes, and platelets were counted, and the expression of surface markers on the neutrophils and monocytes (complement receptor [CR] 1, CR3, CR4, and L-selectin) and on the platelets (P-selectin and CD41) was quantified with flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Clinical and surgical results were similar in both groups. In the group with the heparin-coated surface, the formation of the terminal SC5b-9 complement complex was significantly reduced, and the counts of circulating leukocytes and platelets were significantly less reduced initially but were higher at the end of cardiopulmonary bypass compared with baseline. Also, the expression of CR1, CR3, and CR4 was significantly less upregulated and the L-selectin, significantly less downregulated on monocytes and neutrophils.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that heparin coating reduces complement activation and attenuates the leukocyte integrin and selectin response that occurs when uncoated circuits are used.