Cybersecurity as It Relates to Perfusion

March 21, 2026 No Comments

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.

Monitoring Venous Pressure After Cardiac Surgery: Protecting Kidney Function

Exploring the Role of Central Venous Pressure in Cardiac Surgery-Associated Acute Kidney Injury: A Comprehensive Scoping Review

March 20, 2026 No Comments

This scoping review evaluates the association between central venous pressure (CVP) and acute kidney injury (AKI) following cardiac surgery, particularly CABG. Across 16 studies, elevated CVP consistently correlated with higher AKI risk, especially when combined with low mean arterial pressure. However, variability in CVP thresholds and study designs limits clinical standardization. The findings highlight CVP as a potential perioperative marker requiring further validation.

Perfusionist-Led Pediatric ECMO Monitoring in a High-Tech ICU

A Bedside Staffing Model With Perfusionists for Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) at a High-Volume Center

March 19, 2026 No Comments

This study describes a pediatric ECMO staffing model using perfusionists supported by remote monitoring technology and hourly bedside rounding. Implemented at a high-volume center, the model enables one perfusionist to oversee multiple patients safely. Across 289 cannulations and over 62,000 ECMO hours, outcomes including mortality and complications were comparable to ELSO benchmarks, supporting the model’s safety and feasibility.

Global Collaboration in Perfusion Care and Education

Predictive Factors for Determining First-Attempt Success on the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion Certification Exams for Graduates of a Master’s Level Perfusion Education Program

March 18, 2026 No Comments

This study analyzed 103 perfusion students to identify predictors of first-time success on the ABCP certification exams. Higher performance in Intro to Cardiac Perfusion and Hematology significantly predicted passing, while clinical experience did not. Undergraduate pathway students had higher success rates. Findings suggest academic performance in key courses is more critical than clinical exposure for certification outcomes.

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?

March 17, 2026 No Comments

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.

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

March 17, 2026 No Comments

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.

Dry Venous Line Initiation and Microemboli Formation in Cardiopulmonary Bypass

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

March 17, 2026 No Comments

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.

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

March 16, 2026 No Comments

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.

Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Perfusion Staff in Germany

March 11, 2026 No Comments

This nationwide cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among perfusionists working in German cardiac centers. Using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire, researchers surveyed 287 professionals. Results showed that 86% reported MSD symptoms within the past year, most commonly in the lower back and neck. Increasing age and years of professional experience were associated with higher prevalence, highlighting the need for ergonomic improvements and occupational health strategies.

Goal-Directed Perfusion Monitoring During Cardiopulmonary Bypass

Mini-Compendium on Goal-Directed Perfusion (GDP): Integrating Hemodynamic and Metabolic Determinants of Oxygen Delivery During Cardiopulmonary Bypass

March 5, 2026 No Comments

This narrative review presents a mini-compendium on Goal-Directed Perfusion (GDP), a physiology-based strategy for optimizing cardiopulmonary bypass. GDP integrates oxygen delivery, metabolic indicators, and perfusion pressure to maintain tissue oxygenation and prevent organ injury. Key variables such as DO₂i, O₂ extraction, CO₂ production, and MAP are combined with time-dose models to detect oxygen debt early and personalize perfusion management.