Changes in lung function and pulmonary capillary permeability after cardiopulmonary bypass

Abstract

Cardiac surgery involving cardiopulmonary bypass results in a deterioration in lung function characterized by a loss of lung volume, a reduction in carbon monoxide transfer, and an increase in the alveolar-arterial PO2 gradient. These changes do not appear to be mediated by an increase in pulmonary endothelial permeability.