Brain Protection in Aortic Arch Surgery

The aim of the experimental surgery research group of Oulu University is to perform research on the subject of neuroprotection during complex cardiac and aortic surgery. Our goal is to find methods to reduce neurological complications associated with cardiac and aortic surgery. In our field of research we use experimental models due to the complexity of our experimental set-ups.

During aortic arch surgery and complex congenital heart defect repair, conventional cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is not possible within the period in which the arch is excluded from the circulation. Cessation of blood flow results in cerebral ischemia. The brain is the most sensitive organ to ischemia, and consequently neurological complications are the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in these surgical settings.

Preconditioning, neuroprotective strategy is a concept with brief exposure to a sublethal ischemia stimulus providing protection against or tolerance to the injurious effects of a subsequent more severe insult. In our studies we have proven a method of remote ischemic preconditioning to be useful and helpful in reducing neurological damage of the central nervous system.