hemoconcentration
Process of removing excess fluid from blood during cardiopulmonary bypass to increase hematocrit and protein concentration.
Full Definition
Hemoconcentration is a technique used during cardiopulmonary bypass to remove excess fluid from the patient's blood, thereby increasing hematocrit, protein concentration, and oncotic pressure. The process involves ultrafiltration or hemofiltration devices that selectively remove plasma water while retaining cellular elements and large molecules. Hemoconcentration is particularly valuable in pediatric cardiac surgery where the bypass prime volume may represent a significant portion of the patient's blood volume, leading to severe hemodilution. The technique helps restore normal blood viscosity, improves oxygen-carrying capacity, and reduces postoperative fluid overload and its associated complications.
In Context
- "Hemoconcentration was performed during rewarming to increase the patient's hematocrit from 18% to 25%." — Perfusion record
- "The use of hemoconcentration reduced postoperative fluid retention and improved respiratory function." — Operative report