Hydroxyethyl Starch (HES) as a Priming Solution in Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Abstract

Various priming solutions are currently used to prime heart-lung machines for cardiac operations. Hemodilution has resulted in considerable conservation of blood, as well as diminution of plasma and corpuscle damage, by decreasing the concentration of these elements in blood during extracorporeal circulation. Controversy has existed regarding the relative efficacy of various hemodilution solutions. In this prospective study two groups of similar open-heart patients, the first receiving hydroxyethyl starch (HES) and the second 5% albumin as a priming solution were compared. Hematocrit, platelet counts, plasma fibrinogen levels, postoperative drainage, prothrombin and partial thromboplastin time, urine output, and administration of blood products were investigated and compared. There were no differences in chest tube drainage, blood use, urine output, coagulation, and hematologic and hemodynamic parameters, except for an early postoperative increase in platelet count in the HES group. HES is a safe, effective, inexpensive volume expander in cardiac surgery patients.