Miniaturization in cardiopulmonary bypass.

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) remains the key technology for more complex cardiac operations. The perfusion equipment used nowadays has seen tremendous progress since its introduction into clinical practice 50 years ago. However, overall, CPB is still far from perfect. Major haemodilution is not only a problem for red cell-dependent gas transport, but also for the platelet and humeral factor-dependent coagulation, the protein-dependent intravascular oncotic pressure and so forth. Reduction of the priming volume through further miniaturization of CPB equipment is, therefore, the most obvious next step. A systematic approach needs to optimize all CPB components, including pumps, oxygenator/heat exchanger structures, filters, reservoirs, cardiotomy suction, tubings and cannulas. This report provides an update of already commercially available low prime perfusion devices (e.g., the CORx integrated pump-oxygenator) as well as promising prototypes like the smart suction system and the smartcanula.