Neonatal and infant physiology—impact of cardiopulmonary bypass in the developing patient

Abstract

AbstractCardiopulmonary bypass has been extended to the very young patient undergoing operative correction of congenital heart defects. Growth and development of the central nervous, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and renal systems place significant metabolic and nutritional demands on cellular growth and repair. Immature homeostatic regulation and cellular function require modification of the approaches to preservation of organs and cardiovascular support used in older children and adults undergoing open-heart surgery. Aspects of newborn and infant physiology relevant to cardiopulmonary bypass and postoperative care are reviewed. Current approaches and future strategies designed to address the needs of the developing patient who requires cardiopulmonary bypass are discussed.