Standardization of In-Vitro Evaluation of Extracorporeal Life Support (ECLS) Devices for Research and Development

April 5, 2026 No Comments

This guideline article argues that extracorporeal life support device testing should follow standardized in-vitro protocols so results can be reproduced, compared across research groups, and translated more effectively into practice. It outlines reporting criteria, relevant ISO standards, preferred test conditions, and key considerations for pumps, oxygenators, cannulae, tubing, hemolysis, and thrombogenicity assessment.

Quality Management of Comprehensive Blood Conservation Strategies During Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Pediatric Cardiac Surgery

April 2, 2026 No Comments

This retrospective single-center study evaluated 9,792 children aged 14 years or younger undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. After implementation of a quality-managed, multimodal blood conservation program, matched analysis showed lower PRBC and plasma transfusion rates, smaller CPB priming volumes, and fewer postoperative complications, especially liver injury and acute kidney injury, without increased mortality or longer recovery.

Safer Bypass: Oxygenator Design and Delirium Risk in CABG

Oxygenator-Related Gaseous Microemboli and Postoperative Delirium After On-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting: A Prospective Cohort Study

March 28, 2026 No Comments

This prospective cohort study examined 102 adults undergoing first-time isolated on-pump CABG and compared three membrane oxygenators: Capiox FX25, Inspire 8, and Inspire 8F. The Capiox FX25 showed the lowest arterial gaseous microemboli volume and the best volume reduction, while postoperative delirium occurred in 29.4% overall and was least frequent with Capiox FX25. The findings suggest oxygenator choice may influence neurocognitive outcomes after cardiac surgery.

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

March 23, 2026 No Comments

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.

Viscoelastic Monitoring Guiding Hemostasis During Cardiac Surgery

A Prospective Analysis of Viscoelastic Assays, Platelet Aggregometry, and Standard Laboratory Tests in Predicting Perioperative Blood Loss in Cardiac Surgery

March 14, 2026 No Comments

This prospective observational study of 79 cardiac surgery patients evaluated whether viscoelastic testing (ROTEM), platelet aggregometry, or standard coagulation tests best predict perioperative bleeding. Clot firmness measured by FIBTEM A10 strongly correlated with blood loss using the Hb/kg Index, while platelet count, platelet aggregation, and conventional tests did not. A FIBTEM A10 cutoff of 12 mm accurately detected hypofibrinogenemia, supporting fibrinogen-focused transfusion strategies.

The Impact of Intraoperative Fibrinogen Replacement Therapy on the Clinical Outcome of Surgical Therapy for Type A Acute Aortic Dissection

March 6, 2026 No Comments

This retrospective study evaluated the role of fibrinogen replacement therapy (FRT) using fibrinogen concentrate during emergency surgery for acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD). Among 87 patients, FRT significantly improved postoperative fibrinogen levels and helped maintain hemostasis without increasing complications. Although intraoperative blood loss was higher in the FRT group due to more severe coagulopathy, postoperative bleeding was similar between groups, suggesting FRT effectively stabilizes coagulation during complex aortic surgery.

A Prospective Observational Study on Role of Intraoperative Renal & Muscle Oxygen Saturation on Post-Operative Serum Creatinine Level in Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery on Cardiopulmonary Bypass

March 5, 2026 No Comments

This prospective observational study evaluated whether intraoperative renal (SrO₂) and thenar muscle oxygen saturation (SmO₂), measured using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), could predict post-operative increases in serum creatinine in patients undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Among 55 patients, a >20% decrease in renal oxygen saturation strongly predicted post-operative creatinine rise, while a 15% decrease in muscle oxygen saturation also showed strong predictive value. Both parameters were significantly correlated.

Preoperative Anemia Management and Its Economic Impact on Red Blood Cell Transfusion in Cardiac Surgery

Predictors and Economic Impact of Red Blood Cell Transfusion in Cardiac Surgery: A Simulated Cost Reduction Model for Preoperative Anemia Management

February 16, 2026 No Comments

This retrospective cohort study of 661 elective cardiac surgery patients identified preoperative anemia as the strongest independent predictor of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion (OR 3.67). Transfusion was associated with longer hospital stay, higher infection rates, prolonged ventilation, and a median cost increase of €2264 per patient. A simulation model estimated that eliminating preoperative anemia could prevent 47 transfusions and save €106 429 over 13 months.

Why Certification Matters: Elevate Your Career in ECMO & Blood Management

September 25, 2025 No Comments

Certification in extracorporeal life support and blood management is more than a credential—it’s a statement of expertise, trust, and commitment to excellence. AmSECT/IBBM certification sets you apart in a competitive field, opening career opportunities, building credibility, and ensuring lifelong learning. Stay ahead with industry advancements, expand your professional network, and gain recognition for your skills. Spring applications close April 25, 2025

Evaluation of Intraoperative and Postoperative Blood Cell Salvage Use in Cardiac Surgery with Cardiopulmonary Bypass

June 3, 2025 No Comments

This study investigates the impact of using blood cell salvage (BCS) during and after cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Among 41 patients, those using BCS showed significantly improved hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, fewer red blood cell transfusions, lower infection rates, and shorter hospital stays. The findings support integrating BCS into Patient Blood Management strategies for better clinical outcomes.