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Advanced Technical IVT

systemic inflammatory response syndrome

Also written as: SIRS — Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome

A generalized inflammatory response triggered by cardiopulmonary bypass contact with foreign surfaces and ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Full Definition

Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) in cardiac surgery results from blood contact with the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit, complement activation, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and surgical trauma. This response manifests as increased capillary permeability, vasodilation, coagulation abnormalities, and organ dysfunction. SIRS can lead to increased fluid requirements, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and multiorgan failure. Management strategies include minimizing bypass time, using biocompatible circuits, steroid administration, and ultrafiltration techniques to reduce inflammatory mediators.

Usage

Usage note: SIRS criteria in cardiac surgery may be confounded by expected physiologic responses to surgery.

In Context

  • "The patient developed SIRS following prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass requiring vasopressor support." — ICU progress note
  • "Steroid administration was considered to mitigate the expected SIRS response." — Anesthesia care plan

Also known as

post-bypass inflammatory response

Don't confuse with

sepsis distributive shock

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