Description Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is frequently used for open heart surgery and other procedures that utilize temporary substitution or support of heart and lung function. While it is widely accepted as the predominant method to carry out these procedures, it is not without possible complications. CPB can be seen as the ultimate "team sport" as it includes and is dependent on contributions from multiple professionals including anesthesiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, and perfusion technicians. In this clinical review paper, we examine possible complications of CPB, primarily from the perspective of the anesthesiologist, and how to troubleshoot them if they arise, which often requires the involvement of other essential team members.
Keywords: anesthesia; cardiopulmonary bypass; extracorporeal circulation/adverse effects; intraoperative complications.
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