Which products are commonly utilized to reduce hemodilution during pediatric bypass circuits?

The use of products to reduce hemodilution during pediatric bypass circuits is critical because children often have a limited blood volume compared to adults. As a result, any loss of red blood cells or plasma can significantly impact their hemodynamic stability and oxygen-carrying capacity.

Packed red blood cells (RBCs) are often utilized to replenish the red cell mass that can be diluted during cardiopulmonary bypass, particularly in infants and small children. This helps maintain adequate hemoglobin levels and ensures sufficient oxygen delivery to tissues.

Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) is also important because it contains clotting factors and other components that help prevent coagulopathy during and after bypass. By administering FFP, perfusionists can maintain adequate plasma volume and enhance the coagulation profile, which is especially crucial in the pediatric population where bleeding risk may be heightened.

Albumin serves as a colloid solution and is used to expand intravascular volume, thereby helping to counteract the low oncotic pressure resulting from hemodilution. It assists in maintaining blood pressure and supporting adequate tissue perfusion, further mitigating the risks associated with the dilution of blood components during the bypass.

By using a combination of these products—packed RBCs for red cell mass,