The selection of priming fluids for cardiopulmonary bypass in the UK and Ireland.

The ideal prime for Cardiopulmonary Bypass (CPB) has never been fully established. The development of acid-base disorders during some routine cases and the possible contribution to this from priming fluids caused this hospital to question its protocol. As a result, we conducted a survey of UK perfusion units to analyse current practice. The response rate was 74%. It was found that no two units in the UK used the same prime. The most common reason for fluid choice was historical beliefs and there appeared to be little perceived association between prime and acidosis on bypass. The results revealed that there is no consensus in the UK of the preferential prime for CPB, suggesting the effect this aspect has is not fully understood.