A novel method to detect an oxygenator defect prior to cardiopulmonary bypass initiation

Abstract

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is a common practice in our era. The medical technology used for cardiac surgery goes through rigorous testing to ensure its safety. Unfortunately, it is not fail proof. Oxygenator failures are a rare occurrence but may lead to catastrophic events. We present a case where the preparation for initiating CPB was complicated by an oxygenator defect. After thorough examination, the oxygenator was found leaking from the gas exhaust port suggesting a disruption in continuity of the fibers. This was found by the vigilance of the perfusionist and a creative method to quickly assess the integrity of the oxygenation device. We describe a simple technique to help diagnose an oxygenator leak.