What is the purpose of using Aprotinin during cardiac surgery?

Aprotinin is a protease inhibitor that specifically functions to inhibit fibrinolysis, which is the process that breaks down fibrin in blood clots. During cardiac surgery, especially procedures involving cardiopulmonary bypass, the risk of bleeding can be significantly increased due to hemodilution, surgical trauma, and the use of anticoagulants. By inhibiting fibrinolysis, Aprotinin helps to maintain hemostasis and reduce blood loss, thereby minimizing the need for blood transfusions.

This property of Aprotinin is particularly advantageous in surgeries where excessive bleeding can complicate the procedure and recovery. The use of Aprotinin has been associated with reducing the activation of the fibrinolytic system, which is crucial when every effort needs to be made to control bleeding and stabilize the patient during and after surgery.