Recovery from coma that results as a complication of cardiac arrest followed by cardiopulmonary bypass

Many possible complications are associated with cardiopulmonary bypass. They are similar to the risks accompanying most surgical procedures and include stroke, renal failure, and death. This potential for complication increases when bypass exceeds 2 hours and rises sharply when pump time is prolonged more than 3 to 4 hours. One group of serious complications is major neurologic disorders. The risk of significant cerebral dysfunction, that is, severe focal stroke or coma, is about 1%, and this risk increases with age and coexistent cardiovascular disease. This article focuses on the complication of coma and the possible role cardiopulmonary bypass plays in improving survival rates. A case study is presented illustrating the potential role of cardiopulmonary bypass in the unexpected neurologic recovery from coma.