Perfusion News

Custodiol Versus Del Nido Cardioplegia

Custodiol Versus Del Nido Cardioplegia in Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Repair–a Propensity Score-Matched Study

This propensity score-matched, single-center study compared Custodiol and Del Nido cardioplegia in 778 patients undergoing minimally invasive mitral valve repair. Del Nido was linked to lower postoperative CK and CK-MB release, less need for cardioversion after declamping, fewer shocks, higher perioperative sodium, and lower early inotrope use. Major complications, length of stay, and 30-day mortality were similar, suggesting better myocardial protection with Del Nido.

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ECMO Decision at the Bedside

Clinician Perspectives on the Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Decision-Making Process

This qualitative study explores how clinicians determine candidacy for venovenous ECMO in severe respiratory failure. Interviews with 24 clinicians across 9 countries revealed that decisions rely heavily on subjective judgment rather than standardized criteria. Factors such as age, BMI, ventilator duration, social context, and institutional resources vary widely in interpretation. Cognitive biases and ethical considerations further influence decisions, leading to inconsistent and potentially inequitable allocation of this life-saving but resource-intensive therapy.

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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

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.

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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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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

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.

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