What percentage of hemolysis is attributed to suctioning during perfusion?

The percentage of hemolysis attributed to suctioning during perfusion is notably high, around 95%. This significant percentage reflects the fact that suctioning can generate significant shear forces on the red blood cells, leading to their fragmentation. The mechanical trauma associated with improper suctioning techniques or high negative pressures can cause direct damage to the erythrocytes, contributing substantially to hemolysis during the cardiopulmonary bypass process.

Suctioning involves the rapid removal of blood, which, if not carefully controlled, can lead to the lysis of red blood cells due to turbulence and shear stress. This is particularly relevant in environments where blood is being processed through various devices, such as during cardiac surgery. Therefore, awareness of this percentage is crucial for perfusionists to minimize hemolysis and preserve the integrity of the blood components during procedures.