| Abstract: | The consequences of substituting dextran 70 (Macrodex) for human plasma in the priming solution were studied during the first 48 hours after open-heart surgery. Twenty patients undergoing elective surgery for coronary artery disease were selected for the study. Clinical, haemodynamic, metabolic and roentgenologic parameters were monitored. No major differences were found between results with use of plasma or dextran (each in 10 patients). The lower pulmonary capillary wedge pressure in the dextran group may indicate better left ventricular performance. As human plasma is a limited resource and is a potential disease transmitter, dextran 70 may with advantage replace human plasma in the priming solution, and at much lower cost. |
