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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 —

Calculated vs Reality: The CPB Balancing Act

Is Continuous In-Line Blood Gas Monitoring Reliable During Cardiopulmonary Bypass When PaO2 and PaCO2 Are Calculated Rather Than Measured?

This study evaluates the accuracy of calculated versus measured blood gas values during cardiopulmonary bypass using the Quantum System. In 81 patients, calculated PaO2 was significantly overestimated before calibration and during rewarming, often exceeding acceptable error limits. PaCO2 performed better but drifted with temperature changes. Findings highlight limitations of formula-based monitoring and emphasize the need for calibration and cautious interpretation.

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March 17, 2026
Suction Flow and Reservoir Levels Driving Microemboli During Cardiopulmonary Bypass

The Effect of Surgical Field Suction Flow Rate and Venous Reservoir Levels on Gaseous Microemboli Transmission

This in vitro study investigated how suction flow rate and venous reservoir level influence gaseous microemboli (GME) during cardiopulmonary bypass. Using a mock CPB circuit with bovine blood, higher suction speeds and lower reservoir levels significantly increased GME transmission. The interaction between these variables was strongest at the venous line, while arterial filtration reduced but did not eliminate emboli.

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March 17, 2026
Dry Venous Line Initiation and Microemboli Formation in Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Initiating Cardiopulmonary Bypass Using a Dry Venous Line: Implications and Analysis

This experimental study evaluated the effects of initiating cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) with a dry venous line using vacuum-assisted venous drainage (VAVD). Researchers compared gaseous microemboli (GME) production with traditional primed venous lines. Results showed significantly higher GME counts and volumes with dry venous lines, particularly at higher vacuum pressures and instant initiation. Lower vacuum levels and delayed initiation reduced GME generation.

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March 17, 2026
Gradual vs Rapid Cardiopulmonary Bypass Initiation During Cardiac Surgery

A Comparative Study of the Effect of Slow and Rapid Initiation of Cardiopulmonary Pump on Tissue Oxygenation Index and Ischemic Complications

This randomized, double-blind study compared rapid (30-second) versus slow (180-second) initiation of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) during coronary artery bypass surgery. Researchers evaluated cerebral tissue oxygenation, arterial oxygen pressure, hematocrit changes, and postoperative delirium. While tissue oxygenation and hematocrit showed no significant differences, the rapid initiation group had lower arterial oxygen levels and a trend toward higher postoperative delirium rates.

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March 16, 2026
Advanced Monitoring During Ventilator Weaning After Cardiac Surgery

Weaning From Mechanical Ventilation in Cardiac Surgery Patients: Current Strategies, Monitoring Innovations, and Future Perspectives

This review examines the complex process of liberating cardiac surgery patients from mechanical ventilation. It highlights how cardiopulmonary interactions, surgical factors, sedation, and respiratory muscle dysfunction influence weaning outcomes. The authors discuss predictors of failure, monitoring innovations such as diaphragm ultrasound and electrical impedance tomography, and strategies like spontaneous breathing trials and personalized protocols to improve extubation success and long-term recovery.

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March 16, 2026
MIDCAB vs Drug-Eluting Stent: Two Paths to LAD Revascularization

Revascularization of Left Anterior Descending Artery with Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass Graft vs. Drug Eluting Stents: A Retrospective, Two-Center Study

This retrospective two-center study compared long-term outcomes of minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB) with drug-eluting stent (DES) percutaneous coronary intervention for left anterior descending (LAD) artery disease. Among matched patient groups, MIDCAB resulted in significantly lower rates of recurrent angina and repeat revascularization within two years. However, long-term survival up to 20 years was similar between both treatments. The findings support MIDCAB as a durable alternative for LAD revascularization.

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March 15, 2026
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