Expression of an Activated Form of Integrin β2 Chain CD18 in Cardiac Surgical Operations

Background: Myeloid cells are extensively activated in patients undergoing cardiosurgical operations. It is supposed that this activation is more profound in patients operated with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) („on-pump“) in comparison with patients operated without CPB („off-pump“). Aims: To evaluate changes in the expression of a novel activation marker expressed on myeloid cells recognized by MEM-148 antibody. Patients and Methods: The expression of MEM-148 positive myeloid cells was evaluated by flow cytometry in 40 patients who underwent coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) randomly assigned to „on-pump“ or „off-pump“ technique. Results: The relative and absolute number of MEM-148 positive myeloid cells is significantly diminished during „on-pump“ surgery. A significant increase in their number in postoperative period in both „on-pump“ and „off-pump“ patients was found. There were no significant differencies between „on-pump“ and „off-pump“ patients. Conclusions: The very trauma of surgery seems to be more relevant in starting on activation of myeloid cells them CPB itself.