International Perfusion Association

Day: December 7, 2024

ECMO Anticoagulation

Anticoagulation Management for Veno-Venous ECMO in COVID-19 Patients: Argatroban as Rescue Therapy in Heparin-Associated Thrombocytopenia

This study examines the use of argatroban as an alternative to unfractionated heparin (UFH) for anticoagulation during veno-venous ECMO in COVID-19 patients with heparin-associated thrombocytopenia (HIT). Data from 40 patients revealed a lower incidence of bleeding with argatroban compared to UFH, particularly at tracheal stoma sites. Platelet counts showed better preservation with argatroban, despite comparable efficacy in preventing thrombotic events. Argatroban offers a safer alternative for HIT cases in ECMO.

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Transfusion Blood Cardiac Surgery

A Systematic Approach to Reduce Blood Transfusions in Acute Type A Aortic Dissection Surgery

This clinical study evaluates a systematic approach to reducing blood transfusions in patients undergoing acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) surgery. Techniques included Liu’s aortic root repair, moderate hypothermia circulatory arrest, and the use of a centrifugal pump in cardiopulmonary bypass. Among 326 patients, 53.37% avoided transfusions. Transfusion-free patients had lower mortality (1.72% vs. 9.21%) and complications. The findings support transfusion-free ATAAD surgeries for selected cases.

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