Hemolytic Anemia after Open-Heart Repair of Ostium-Primum Defects

Abstract
DESTRUCTION of red cells by mechanical battering during circulation may result in hemolytic reactions, with hemoglobinemia and, if severe enough, hemoglobinuria. Prolonged, strenuous exertion has provoked the syndrome,1 , 2 and it has recently occurred in two other situations associated with cardiovascular surgery: after the insertion of a lucite ball-valve prosthesis within the thoracic aorta3; and as a complication of cardiac repair after open-heart surgery.4 The purpose of this report is to present 2 further cases of the second syndrome illustrating two degrees of severity of hemolytic disease.Case ReportsCase 1. A 17-year-old boy was admitted to Walter Reed General . . .