True or False: The most common gastrointestinal complication linked with cardiopulmonary bypass is diarrhea.

The statement is false. Diarrhea is not recognized as the most common gastrointestinal complication associated with cardiopulmonary bypass. In fact, studies indicate that the gastrointestinal complications often seen following cardiopulmonary bypass include a range of issues, but the more prevalent complication tends to be related to a decrease in blood flow leading to ischemia rather than diarrhea as a primary symptom.

More commonly, patients may experience abdominal distension, nausea, and vomiting, which can occur due to various factors, including altered perfusion, inflammation, and the effects of medications used during surgery. Understanding the typical complications that arise from the physiological changes during and after cardiopulmonary bypass is crucial in managing and preventing gastrointestinal issues effectively. Thus, categorizing diarrhea as the most common complication does not align with current medical knowledge or clinical findings.