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.

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!

— Latest News —

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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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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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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Global Cardiac Surgery Team Comparing HES vs Albumin

Comparison of 6% Hydroxyethyl Starch 130/0.4 vs 5% Albumin in Cardiopulmonary Bypass for Cardiac Surgery

This meta-analysis of 12 studies (908 patients) compares 6% hydroxyethyl starch (HES 130/0.4) and 5% albumin in cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Results show no significant differences in blood loss, transfusion needs, ICU stay, or mortality. However, HES is associated with a significantly higher risk of acute kidney injury, raising concerns about its renal safety despite similar overall efficacy.

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Cybersecurity as it relates to perfusion

Cybersecurity as It Relates to Perfusion

Cybersecurity is increasingly critical in perfusion as connected medical devices expand vulnerability within hospital networks. Perfusionists must understand risks associated with the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), adopt strong digital practices, and collaborate with IT teams. The article highlights downtime preparedness, device security awareness, and standardized guidelines to protect patient data and maintain safe clinical operations.

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Normothermic Regional Perfusion, Organ Transplantation, Donation After Circulatory Death, Bibliometric Analysis, Graft Survival, Ischemia Reperfusion Injury, Heart Transplantation, Liver Transplantation, Kidney Transplantation, Transplant Outcomes

Normothermic Regional Perfusion in Organ Transplantation: Trends, Key Topics, and Evolving Research Focus

This bibliometric analysis reviews 372 studies on normothermic regional perfusion (NRP) from 2014–2025, showing rapid growth in research and global adoption. The United States led in publications, while the United Kingdom led in citations. Research focus has shifted from kidney and liver complications to heart transplantation and outcomes, highlighting NRP’s expanding role in improving graft viability and transplant success.

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