New Oxygenation System for Adult Cardiac Surgery

Among the features of the system are a proprietary fiber winding process with an interlaced pattern that efficiently filters the blood and removes particles and air, while at the same time oxygenating the blood, and smooth tubular pathways for blood to pass through and a curved venous inlet tube, both of which can reduce blood turbulence during the surgical procedure.

An important feature of the Affinity Fusion is use of Balance Biosurface, a nonheparin, hydrophilic, polymer coating that provides reduced platelet activation and adhesion, and preserves platelet function. The Balance Biosurface coating expands options used by cardiovascular surgery teams for comprehensive strategies to achieve the best possible outcomes for their patients undergoing CPB surgical procedures. Other innovations include proactive air handling, an integrated arterial filter, and a unique design for hemocompatibility.

A new oxygenator system holder gives perfusionists improved flexibility and ease of use in various operating rooms, including those with limited space. Other system enhancements are designed to prevent and remove air bubbles that can enter the blood during the procedure, which may potentially reduce the risk of stroke. The Affinity Fusion oxygenation system is a product of Medtronic (Minneapolis, MN, USA), and has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

“With so many patients undergoing cardiac surgery each year, Affinity Fusion provides patients with a reliable oxygenation system that is designed to proactively manage air and gently handle blood,” said cardiac surgeon John Liddicoat, MD, senior VP and president of Medtronic’s structural heart division. “This is an important consideration for hospitals that are focused on implementing patient blood management programs and other initiatives that can impact costs associated with transfusions and post-operative complications.”

CPB is a is a form of extracorporeal circulation that temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs during surgery, maintaining the circulation of blood and the oxygen content of the body. The CPB pump, often referred to as a heart-lung machine, is operated by perfusionists.

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