Buckberg solution

Buckberg solution is a blood-based cardioplegic solution used to induce and maintain electromechanical cardiac arrest during cardiac surgery, providing myocardial protection during the period of aortic cross-clamping. Developed by Dr. Gerald Buckberg, the protocol typically utilizes a 4:1 ratio of blood to a crystalloid solution. The crystalloid component is enriched with potassium chloride to induce diastolic arrest through myocardial cell membrane depolarization. It also contains additives such as tromethamine (THAM) or bicarbonate for pH buffering to manage acidosis, dextrose for metabolic support, and amino acids like aspartate and glutamate to enhance myocardial recovery and reduce ischemia-reperfusion injury. By using blood as a vehicle, the solution provides superior oxygen delivery and natural antioxidant properties compared to purely crystalloid solutions.

Other names

Buckberg cardioplegiaBuckberg blood cardioplegiaBuckberg cardioplegic solution