Cryofibrin precipitation is a phenomenon which has only recently been described, although it might have been present since the advent of membraneoxygenators for cardiopulmonary bypass procedures. The deposition of the cold-reactive protein, cryofibrin, causes progressive occlusion of the heat-exchanger part of the cardiopulmonary circuit, thus leading to a high pressure-drop phenomenon. We describe our experience with a few cases in which the cryofibrination phenomenon developed while using the Avecor-Affinity Medtronic' membrane oxygenator.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
Clowes Gha Jr, Hopkins AL, Neville WEAn artificial lung dependent upon diffusion of oxygen and carbon dioxide through plastic membranesJ Thorac Surg1956; 32: 630-37.
2.
Blomback M., Kronlund P., Aberg B. et al.Pathologic fibrin formation and cold-induced clotting of membrane oxygenators during cardiopulmonary bypassJ Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth1995; 9 : 34-43.
3.
Palanzo DA, Zarro DL, Montesano RM, Manley NJAlbumin in the cardiopulmonary bypass prime: how little is enough?Perfusion1999; 14 : 167-72.
4.
Bjornsson TD , Schneider DE, Berger H. Jr.Aspirin acetylates fibrinogen and enhances fibrinolysis. Fibrinolytic effect is independent of changes in plasminogen activator levels. J Pharmacol Exp Ther1989; 250 : 154-61.
