Reperfuzja

Reperfuzja refers to the restoration of blood flow to an organ or tissue that has been deprived of oxygen due to a blockage, such as in a heart attack or stroke. This process is crucial for salvaging cells that would otherwise die from ischemia. The effectiveness of reperfusion depends on the duration of the ischemia and the promptness with which blood flow is restored.

In the context of cardiovascular disease, reperfusion is often achieved through interventions like angioplasty with stenting or thrombolytic therapy. These methods aim to open the occluded artery, allowing oxygenated blood to reach the affected heart muscle. Similarly, in stroke, reperfusion aims to re-establish blood flow to the brain by removing clots or administering clot-busting medications.

However, reperfusion is not without its risks. The reintroduction of oxygenated blood can paradoxically cause further damage to the already compromised tissue. This phenomenon is known as reperfusion injury. Mechanisms contributing to reperfusion injury include oxidative stress, inflammation, and calcium overload within cells. Medical strategies are often employed to minimize reperfusion injury, such as the use of antioxidants or specific pharmacological agents. The delicate balance between the benefits of restoring blood flow and the potential harm of reperfusion injury is a key consideration in the management of ischemic conditions.