| Abstract: | The changes induced in the lungs have been studied, in the course of 15 heart operations with extracorporeal circulation. In each case material was obtained from lungs after the thoracotomy, before starting the perfusion and after its termination. The pulmonary structure showed changes against the control material already prior to perfusion, the most conspicuous alternations of the capillary endothelial cells and of the basal membrane. Examination of the surfactant by ruthenium red demonstrated changes in the reaction; from this circumstance the conclusion has been drawn that affection of the surfactant may have a part in the postperfusion syndrome. |
