CCP Cardioplegia Delivery Methods 2

Question 1

Which cardioplegia delivery route provides more uniform myocardial protection in the presence of significant aortic regurgitation?

Accepted Answer

Retrograde via coronary sinus

Answer

Retrograde coronary sinus delivery bypasses the incompetent aortic valve, ensuring cardioplegia reaches the myocardium despite aortic regurgitation.

Question 2

During retrograde cardioplegia, the coronary sinus perfusion pressure should generally be maintained below:

Accepted Answer

50 mmHg

Answer

Coronary sinus perfusion pressure above 50 mmHg risks coronary sinus rupture and myocardial edema.

Question 3

What is the primary advantage of warm blood cardioplegia ('hot shot') administered just before aortic cross-clamp removal?

Accepted Answer

It provides aerobic resuscitation and clears ischemic metabolites

Answer

A warm blood cardioplegia terminal dose ('hot shot') delivers oxygen and substrates to repay the oxygen debt and flush metabolic waste before reperfusion.

Question 4

Which statement best describes 'del Nido' cardioplegia compared to standard blood cardioplegia?

Accepted Answer

Del Nido is designed for single-dose myocardial protection lasting up to 90 minutes

Answer

Del Nido cardioplegia is formulated to provide extended protection from a single dose, often lasting 60–90 minutes, reducing the need for re-dosing.

Question 5

When using integrated (combined) antegrade and retrograde cardioplegia, what is the primary benefit over either method alone?

Accepted Answer

More complete myocardial distribution overcoming collateral and coronary artery disease limitations

Answer

Combined antegrade and retrograde delivery compensates for distribution gaps caused by coronary artery obstructions and poor collateral flow.

(CCP) Certified Clinical Perfusionist Practice Test

(CCP) Certified Clinical Perfusionist Practice Test

CCP Cardioplegia Delivery Methods 2