Abstract
An Experimental study of the Effect of Microbubbles on Tissues. Currently the hollow fiber membrane oxygenator (Capiox II) is being used for about 70% of our open heart operations. No microbubble was detected in arterial line of this oxygenator by ultrasonic detector whereas many microbubbles were recorded in the case of bubble oxygenator. We compare HFO with BO as to the effects on blood and tissue microcirculation.
Fifteen mongrel dogs were divided into HFO group and BO group using BOS-5 oxygenator. After cessation of perfusion for 2 hours, they were observed for further 2 hours under artificial respiration. Blood gas, hemogram, plasma free hemoglobin and AT-III were measured 60 and 120 minutes during perfusion and 60 and 120 minutes after cessation of perfusion. Specimens of lung, heart, kidney, etc. were removed for microscopies to evaluate the effect of microbubbles upon tissue microcirculation. Blood gas data did not differ significantly between groups after perfusion. Platelet count was significantly higher (p<0.01) in HFO group at 120 min. after the establishment of ECC. Perivascular bleeding and edema in the specimen of lung and kidney were found in both groups, but spotty coagulation necrosis in heart muscle was found more in number in BO group.
