Immunogenicity and Thrombotic Potential of Circulating Protamine-heparin Complexes in Cardiac Surgery Patients

Immunogenicity and Thrombotic Potential of Circulating Protamine-heparin Complexes in Cardiac Surgery Patients

The primary aim of this study was to describe the prevalence and time course of the occurrence of protamine/heparin antibodies in patients undergoing cardiac surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass.

The second aim was to identify triggers of immunization.

The third aim of this study was to evaluate a potential clinical impact of protamine/heparin antibodies and their platelet-activating properties leading to thromboembolism and other adverse outcomes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age ≥ 18 years
• cardiac surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass

Exclusion Criteria:

• cardiac surgery without cardiopulmonary bypass
• age < 18 years
• no written consent