Optimization of micro bubble elimination by the use of an oxygenator with an integrated arterial filter in combination with the dynamic bubble trap

Objectives: The occurrence of micro bubbles in the extracorporeal circuit is often described as a negative effect of the heart-lung machine. New oxygenators with integrated arterial filter shall to improve the elimination of micro bubbles. In addition to a previous study analysing the micro bubble elimination by an oxygenator with an integrated arterial filter and an oxygenator without integrated arterial filter in combination with a dynamic bubble trap, we studied the micro bubble elimination of an oxygenator with an integrated arterial filter in combination with a dynamic bubble trap (DBT).

Methods: In 46 patients the Capiox FX oxygenator (Terumo Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) in combination with a dynamic bubble trap (Kardialgut, Axtbrunn, Germany) was used. To ensure comparability to the groups of the previous study, we also included only patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). For the measurement of micro bubble elimination two Bubble Counter BCC 200 (GAMPT, Merseburg, Germany) were used.

Results: Compared to the previous study, the patients characteristics did not differ between the groups.

By the Capiox FX 71.2%± 21.9% of the micro bubbles were eliminated. After the DBT 90.7 ± 8.8% of the micro bubbles were removed from the circuit. In comparison to the group using the Capiox RX and the DBT no significant better reduction of micro bubbles could be observed.

Conclusion: By the use of the Capiox FX with integrated arterial filter in combination with the DBT no better micro bubble elimination can be achieved. The DBT proves, despite the use of an oxygenator with an integrated arterial filter, the key technology for the effective micro bubble elimination.