Professional
Technical
IVT
reperfusion injury
Cellular damage that occurs when blood supply returns to tissue after a period of ischemia.
Full Definition
Reperfusion injury refers to the paradoxical tissue damage that occurs when circulation is restored to previously ischemic myocardium. This injury results from oxygen radical formation, calcium overload, complement activation, and inflammatory responses triggered by the restoration of blood flow. In cardiac surgery, reperfusion injury can occur when cross-clamp is removed or coronary flow is restored, potentially leading to arrhythmias, stunning, or cell death despite successful revascularization.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from direct ischemic injury; occurs specifically during restoration of flow.
In Context
- "Controlled reperfusion protocols were used to minimize reperfusion injury." — Operative technique description
- "Post-operative enzyme elevation suggested some degree of reperfusion injury." — Post-operative assessment
Also known as
ischemia-reperfusion injury
reflow injury
Contrasted with
ischemic preconditioning
protective reperfusion
Don't confuse with
ischemic injury
myocardial stunning