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C Geisen

Publications and source records attributed to C Geisen.

22 records · Page 2Linked to original sources

Heparin-coated versus non-coated surfaces for extracorporeal circulation.

Studies were made to compare completely heparin-bonded (HBS) and conventional extracorporeal circulation surfaces using capillary membrane oxygenators (CMO) in sheep and dogs for up to five days. The aims were: to investigate the need for systemic heparinization in the case of heparin-coated surfaces, to assess blood compatibility and gas exchange performance of both systems and the extent of complement activation, and to find solutions for plasma leakage by the use of CMO. All studies were performed under standardized conditions, such as drugs, surgery, priming, blood flow rate etc. For heparin-coated surface studies all blood interfaces (CMO, catheters, tubes, etc) were coated. It was possible to eliminate systemic heparinization totally when HBS were used. During the five-day non-heparin application period blood coagulation parameters were almost unchanged and in the physiological range, platelets did not drop below 80%, hemolysis was negligible and gas exchange performance was unaffected. Less complement activation occurred with HBS than with non-coated surfaces.

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Effect of long-term hypoxia on oxygen transport properties of blood in pregnant guinea pigs.

Pregnant guinea pigs undergoing long-term hypoxia were studied and the results compared with those of control animals (pregnant, but non-hypoxic). Hypoxic animals demonstrated a decrease of O2 affinity (-7%) and an increase of O2 capacity (+35%). In addition, the HCT was found to be higher in the hypoxic group (+41%), causing haemorheological disadvantages; in a shear model study the blood of hypoxic animals had to be exposed to the gas compartment of the rheo-oxymeter up to 62% longer than that of the control group. We have postulated, that this rheological impairement is compensated, since no abnormalities in number and abortion rate of fetuses (due to a possible O2 delivery impairment) were found. Our morphological studies in fact support this opinion, showing e.g. more capillary branchings and loops and a reduction of diffusion distances between maternal and fetal blood in hypoxic guinea pig placentae. The results emphasize the importance of more detailed rheological studies in connection with other investigations for a complete description of compensatory mechanisms.

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Alterations of the fetal capillary bed in the guinea pig placenta following long-term hypoxia.

Oxygen supply is an important regulator of the fetal placental capillarization. To determine the effects of long-term hypoxia on the fetal placental vessel arrangement pregnant guinea pigs were kept under hypoxic conditions (12% O2 for 45 days). Vessel casts showed a significant difference in branching and orientation of the vessels between the controls and the hypoxic animals. The hypoxic group had a less orientated capillary bed with increased branching and coiling. By light- and transmission electron microscopical studies, there was a decreased diffusion distance, a decreased diameter of the fetal capillaries, and an increased number of capillary cross-sections. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that chronic hypoxia is responsible for increased branching and coiling of the capillaries resulting in a dense network of short and narrow capillaries in the placenta.

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Heparin free long-term extracorporeal circulation using bioactive surfaces.

As already shown, a single bolus injection of heparin is sufficient to perform extracorporeal circulation (ECC) for long-term lung support if bioactive surfaces (HBS) are used. In the present study whether complete avoidance of systemic heparinization using HBS is possible was studied. Seven conscious sheep (50-60 kg) underwent venovenous bypass under standardized conditions using a Maxima capillary membrane oxygenator. Drug administration, surgery, and other conditions, such as priming volume and blood flow rates, were identical in all experiments. All blood contacting surfaces (oxygenator, catheters, etc.) were HBS. The ECC periods were set for 24 hr (n = 3) and 5 days (n = 4). At no time was heparin administered. No complications occurred in any experiment. Partial thromboplastin time, activated clotting time, and other coagulation parameters remained within physiologic ranges. Platelets did not drop below 80% of baseline values, and hemolysis rates were negligible. Blood gas data and other vital parameters were normal during the entire ECC period. Results show that HBS can be applied to long-term ECC, without the necessity for heparin administration.

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