Intrinsic Plasma Volume Deficits in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease

Abstract

Plasma volumes, red blood cell volumes, large vessel hematocrit readings, and total blood volumes were measured before operation, immediately after operation, and four to six months later in 12 patients with coronary artery obstruction, disabling angina, and normal left ventricular function. There were significant plasma volume deficits in all patients before and six months after operation despite complete amelioration of angina and replenishment of the plasma volume immediately after surgery. The importance of recognizing possibly significant preoperative oligemia in patients undergoing coronary revascularization is emphasized.