[Reducing hemodilution through ultrafiltration following cardiopulmonary bypass].

Reduction of post-bypass-hemodilution by ultrafiltration was assessed. Five dogs were subjected to 1 hour of cardiopulmonary bypass and were hemodiluted with 2 liters of Ringer lactate solution to a hematocrit below 20%. An arterial hemofilter was then incorporated into the system and 1 liter of fluid was ultrafiltrated for 16 minutes during partial bypass. The filtrate was free of protein and hemoglobin. There was a significant increase of the hematocrit from 19 to 29%, and protein from 2,7 to 5,4 g%. No hemodynamic alterations were seen during or after filtration. Osmolality remained within normal limits (from 284 to 296 mOsm/kg). In addition, no electrolyte imbalance was found. The method is therefore safe for quick volume removal without the side effect of diuretics.