Retrograde perfusion

Retrograde perfusion is a medical procedure that involves the delivery of blood or other perfusate in the direction opposite to the normal flow. This technique is often used in cardiac surgery to provide oxygenated blood to the heart when the heart-lung machine is not in use.

Overview

In normal circumstances, blood flows from the body into the right side of the heart, through the lungs to be oxygenated, and then into the left side of the heart to be pumped back out to the body. In retrograde perfusion, this process is reversed. Blood is delivered to the veins of the heart, which then flows backwards through the coronary circulation to supply the heart muscle with oxygen and nutrients.

Uses

Retrograde perfusion is primarily used in cardiac surgery, particularly during coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). During CABG, the heart is often stopped to allow the surgeon to operate. Retrograde perfusion allows the heart to continue receiving oxygenated blood during this time.

Procedure

The procedure for retrograde perfusion involves the insertion of a cannula into the coronary sinus, which collects blood from the veins of the heart. The cannula is then connected to a perfusion machine, which pumps oxygenated blood or perfusate into the coronary sinus. This blood then flows backwards through the veins of the heart, supplying the heart muscle with oxygen and nutrients.

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, retrograde perfusion carries some risks. These may include damage to the coronary sinus during cannulation, inadequate perfusion of the heart muscle, and potential for air embolism.

See Also

• Cardiac surgery
• Coronary artery bypass grafting
• Perfusion

References

Retrograde perfusion Resources
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