ABSTRACT
Deep hypothermia with circulatory arrest (DHCA) remains an essential adjunct in aortic and pediatric cardiac surgery. In profound hypothermia, the core temperature is gradually lowered to 18-20°C using cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Perfusion is discontinued, the patient’s blood volume is drained into the pump reservoir, and cannulae can be removed, facilitating surgery in a bloodless field.
