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Research: BAKKER and COLLEAGUES,
Listed in Issue 276
Abstract
BAKKER and COLLEAGUES, 1 Northwest Clinics Alkmaar, The Netherlands; 2 University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands set out to investigate peri-operative erythrocyte function and effects of omega-3 fatty acids.
Background
An adequate erythrocyte function is vital for tissue oxygenation and wound healing. The erythrocyte membrane phospholipid composition plays an important role in erythrocyte function and administration of omega-3 fatty acids may provide a means to improve it.
Methodology
Forty-four patients undergoing elective laparoscopic colon resection for non-metastasized cancer were randomized between intravenous omega-3 poly-unsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) or placebo (saline). Peri-operative blood samples were analyzed with a Lorrca MaxSIS Ektacytometer and erythrocyte membrane phospholipids were determined with gas chromatography.
Results
Patient and operation characteristics were equal between groups. There was a significant increase in erythrocyte membrane eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) but not docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the n-PUFA group. There were no significant differences in erythrocyte deformability but the aggregation index (AI) was significantly lower and the aggregation half time (T½) was significantly higher in the n-3 PUFA group.
Conclusion
This study confirms rapid changes in erythrocyte membrane phospholipid composition after administration of intravenous n-3 PUFAs. Erythrocyte deformability parameters were not affected but erythrocyte aggregability was decreased in the n-3 PUFA group. Further investigation is necessary to gain more insights in the effects of n-3 PUFA and the postoperative inflammatory response on erythrocyte function.
References
Nathalie Bakker 1 , Marianne Schoor l 1 , Eline Stoutjesdijk 2 , Alexander P J Houdijk 1. Erythrocyte deformability and aggregability in patients undergoing colon cancer surgery and effects of two infusions with omega-3 fatty acids. Clin Hemorheol Microcirc; 74(3):287-297. doi: 10.3233/CH-190687. 2020.