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IPA

Philanthropy, Passion & Education International Perfusion Association The International Perfusion Association (IPA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is dedicated to enhancing education and supporting global cardiac surgery initiatives. Our mission is to amplify our philanthropic efforts by organizing cardiac surgery missions, assisting those engaged in similar endeavors, and bolstering local educational programs. We welcome individuals who are eager to make a meaningful difference in the world to join us in our cause. Make a Donation
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Heart to Heart Mission

For more than 20 years, the IPA has performed life-saving heart surgery on over 400 patients in Santiago, Dominican Republic.

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Ecuador Mission

The IPA is working with Harvard / MGH to expand their heart surgery mission program in Ecuador. We have a mission trip planned for October 2026. Stay tuned for more information.

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Your Mission Trip

The IPA will gladly make donations to qualified charitable organizations who perform cardiac surgery mission work for patients in need.

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700+ Patients

Help Mend a Heart!

Every member of our team is an unpaid volunteer, so please take comfort in knowing that 100% of all donated funds go directly to patient care. Your generosity is so very welcome and will help save lives!
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— Latest News —

Custodiol Versus Del Nido Cardioplegia

Custodiol Versus Del Nido Cardioplegia in Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Repair–a Propensity Score-Matched Study

This propensity score-matched, single-center study compared Custodiol and Del Nido cardioplegia in 778 patients undergoing minimally invasive mitral valve repair. Del Nido was linked to lower postoperative CK and CK-MB release, less need for cardioversion after declamping, fewer shocks, higher perioperative sodium, and lower early inotrope use. Major complications, length of stay, and 30-day mortality were similar, suggesting better myocardial protection with Del Nido.

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March 24, 2026
ECMO Decision at the Bedside

Clinician Perspectives on the Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Decision-Making Process

This qualitative study explores how clinicians determine candidacy for venovenous ECMO in severe respiratory failure. Interviews with 24 clinicians across 9 countries revealed that decisions rely heavily on subjective judgment rather than standardized criteria. Factors such as age, BMI, ventilator duration, social context, and institutional resources vary widely in interpretation. Cognitive biases and ethical considerations further influence decisions, leading to inconsistent and potentially inequitable allocation of this life-saving but resource-intensive therapy.

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March 23, 2026
Hemolysis and Kidney Injury Risk After Cardiac Surgery

Hemolysis and Acute Kidney Injury Following Cardiac Surgery With Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Patients With Preexisting Renal Dysfunction

This study examines whether hemolysis, measured by cell-free hemoglobin (CFHb), predicts acute kidney injury (AKI) after cardiac surgery in patients with preexisting renal dysfunction. Among 89 patients, 21% developed AKI. Although hemolysis and endothelial damage increased postoperatively, CFHb did not independently predict AKI or improve predictive models, suggesting limited clinical utility as a biomarker.

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March 23, 2026
AI-Driven Kidney Risk Prediction During Cardiac Surgery

Predicting Kidney Injury After Cardiac Surgery With Cardiopulmonary Bypass Using Machine Learning

This study evaluates a machine learning (ML) model using electronic health record (EHR) data to predict acute kidney injury (AKI) after cardiac surgery. In 130 patients, the AI achieved strong predictive performance (AUROC 0.79 for AKI, 0.83 for 30-day kidney disease). The model enables early, automated risk stratification, offering a practical tool for proactive perioperative management and improved patient outcomes.

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March 22, 2026
Equity in Cardiac Surgery: Bridging the Gap in Mitral Valve Care

Sex-Based Differences in Outcomes Following Mitral Valve Surgery: A Contemporary Analysis From 2 Institutions

This retrospective study of 3,313 patients undergoing mitral valve surgery found that women presented older, with more advanced heart failure, and were less likely to receive valve repair. Despite these differences, operative mortality did not significantly differ between sexes after adjustment. Women experienced longer ICU and hospital stays, highlighting disparities in recovery rather than survival outcomes. 

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March 22, 2026
Anticoagulation Management and Monitoring in ECMO

Anticoagulation Management and Monitoring in ECMO: An International Survey From the ISTH SSC Subcommittee on Pediatric and Neonatal Thrombosis and Hemostasis

This international survey evaluates anticoagulation strategies in ECMO patients across 17 countries. Findings show unfractionated heparin remains the primary anticoagulant, while bivalirudin use is rising. Despite widespread protocol use, significant variability persists in dosing, monitoring, and transfusion practices. Hematology involvement is often limited to complex cases, highlighting the need for standardized, collaborative approaches to improve ECMO outcomes.

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March 22, 2026
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