Articles of Interest

Abstract

Eighty patients were entered in a randomized, doubleblinded, prospective trial to study the benefits of a new surface modification (SMARxT, Cobe Cardiovascular) on neurologic protection. Cardiotomy suction was avoided. Cerebral ischemia markers were similar in both groups but cognitive testing demonstrated a slight improvement in the coated circuit group. The authors warn that showing subtle, yet significant, improvements in clinical outcomes is difficult.