In a microbiological sample study of 15 wet-primed cardiopulmonary bypass circuits
in standby mode for 72 hours under regular clinical conditions, no contamination of
the priming fluid or the connectors could be detected. Hand contact surfaces of the
machines demonstrated environmental microorganisms. These findings indicate the safe
use of primed cardiopulmonary bypass circuits in standby mode for 72 hours. A surface
disinfection of hand contact surfaces immediately before use is recommended.
Keywords
cardiopulmonary bypass - infection - off-pump surgery - surgery - complications
