Cardiac Surgery Certification Exam Cardiopulmonary Bypass Techniques

Question 1

What is the standard target activated clotting time (ACT) before initiating cardiopulmonary bypass?

Accepted Answer

Greater than 400 seconds

Answer

An ACT greater than 400 seconds is required before initiating CPB to prevent clot formation in the bypass circuit.

Question 2

Which cannulation site is most commonly used for arterial return during standard cardiopulmonary bypass?

Accepted Answer

Ascending aorta

Answer

The ascending aorta is the most common arterial cannulation site for CPB because it provides optimal flow and avoids retrograde perfusion risks.

Question 3

What is the purpose of the cardiotomy reservoir in the CPB circuit?

Accepted Answer

To collect blood suctioned from the operative field

Answer

The cardiotomy reservoir collects blood suctioned from the operative field so it can be filtered and returned to the patient.

Question 4

Which type of oxygenator is most commonly used in modern cardiopulmonary bypass circuits?

Accepted Answer

Hollow-fiber membrane oxygenator

Answer

Hollow-fiber membrane oxygenators are preferred in modern CPB because they minimize blood trauma and air emboli risk.

Question 5

What is the typical target mean arterial pressure (MAP) during cardiopulmonary bypass for most adult patients?

Accepted Answer

50–80 mmHg

Answer

A MAP of 50–80 mmHg is generally maintained during CPB to ensure adequate end-organ perfusion while minimizing bleeding risk.

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