Modified Ultrafiltration in Cardiac Surgery

Assessment of the Influence of Modified Ultrafiltration on Primary and Secondary Hemostasis in Cardiac Surgery Patients

The purpose of this study is to find out, whether filtration of the blood in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, beneficially influences the coagulation system.

The impact of modified ultrafiltration following extracorporeal circulation on primary and secondary hemostasis is controversial. In this study we intend to assess both, primary and secondary hemostasis prior to and after the usage of modified ultrafiltration. Primary hemostasis is assessed using Multiple Electrode Aggregometry (Multiplate) and secondary hemostasis is assessed performing thrombelastometry using the ROTEM device. Patients are preoperatively randomized to receive either modified ultrafiltration or no filtration.

Inclusion Criteria:

• patients undergoing complex cardiac surgery procedures

Exclusion Criteria:

• none