International Perfusion Association

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Heart Stopper

Efficacy and Safety of the Blood-Based Cardioplegia Solution Huaxi-1 in Cardiopulmonary Bypass Surgery: Protocol for a Multicentre Randomised Controlled Trial

This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of the Huaxi-1 blood-based cardioplegia solution compared to the widely used HTK solution in cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. A randomized, multicenter trial involving 160 adult patients across four hospitals in China will measure myocardial injury markers, cardiac function, and post-surgical recovery. The goal is to establish Huaxi-1’s viability as a standardized cardioplegia solution for improved myocardial protection.

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The Influence of Cardiopulmonary Bypass Residual Volume Processing Technique on Blood Management in Cardiac Surgical Patients

The Influence of Cardiopulmonary Bypass Residual Volume Processing Technique on Blood Management in Cardiac Surgical Patients

This study examines different techniques for processing post-cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) residual blood and their impact on intraoperative red blood cell (RBC) transfusions. Analyzing data from over 77,000 adult cardiac surgeries, the study found that using Hemobag (HB) resulted in the lowest transfusion risk, while not processing blood (NO) led to the highest. The findings highlight the importance of effective blood conservation strategies in cardiac surgery.

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Protamine 101

On-Pump FIBTEM-A5 Accurately Predicts the A5 Values After Protamine Administration

This study investigates whether on-pump FIBTEM-A5 values measured during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) accurately predict post-protamine administration values. Conducted at a single cardiac center, the retrospective analysis of 70 patients found a strong correlation (R² = 0.813) between the two measurements. Despite a statistically significant but clinically negligible difference, the findings support using on-pump FIBTEM-A5 to guide fibrinogen supplementation in cardiac surgery.

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Crazy ECMO

Survival After Endocarditis Surgery Needing Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support: Results from the Netherlands Heart Registration

This study analyzes venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) use after infective endocarditis (IE) surgery using Netherlands Heart Registration data (2013–2022). Among 3,468 cases, 1.4% required VA-ECMO, with 49% in-hospital mortality and 60.9% one-year mortality. Despite increased risk factors and complications, VA-ECMO outcomes were comparable to non-IE postcardiotomy VA-ECMO cases, challenging the exclusion of IE patients based on high anticipated mortality.

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EBCP 2024 Guidelines

2024 EACTS/EACTAIC/EBCP Guidelines on Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Adult Cardiac Surgery

The 2024 EACTS/EACTAIC/EBCP guidelines provide updated, evidence-based recommendations for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in adult cardiac surgery. They cover advancements in perfusion strategies, organ protection, monitoring techniques, and safety measures. Key updates include AI-driven perfusion, enhanced neuromonitoring, and refined protocols for blood management and CPB separation. These guidelines aim to standardize practices, improve outcomes, and ensure patient safety in modern cardiac surgery.

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Balloon IABP

Innovative Balloon-Inflatable Venous Cannula for Enhanced Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgery

This study introduces the Aulus venous cannula, a novel device for minimally invasive cardiac surgery (MICS) designed to improve cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). The cannula features heparin coating and internal balloons for superior and inferior vena cava occlusion, reducing external manipulation. Preclinical tests, including ex-vivo and large animal studies, demonstrated effective anticoagulation, precise positioning, and favorable safety outcomes, highlighting its potential for clinical use.

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Outcomes in Children Who Undergo Postcardiotomy Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Outcomes in Children Who Undergo Postcardiotomy Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Report From the STS-CHSD

This study evaluates survival outcomes in children who undergo postcardiotomy extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) following congenital heart surgery. Using data from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Congenital Heart Surgery Database (STS-CHSD), the study found that ECMO initiation over 48 hours post-surgery correlated with the poorest outcomes. Postoperative septicemia, cardiac arrest, and neurological injury were strongly linked to mortality, while reintubation and unplanned noncardiac reoperation improved survival.

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Podcast 2025

International Perfusion Association Launches New Podcast on Spotify

The International Perfusion Association (IPA) has launched a new podcast on Spotify, titled “Perfusion.” Each new IPA article will now include a podcast episode featuring expert discussions on perfusion science, technology, and clinical practice. Topics include advancements in heart-lung machines, ECMO, and global perfusion practices. This podcast makes critical knowledge accessible to professionals on the go. Follow “Perfusion” on Spotify for the latest episodes and expert insights.

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Nitric Oxide

Neurodevelopmental Outcomes After Nitric Oxide During Cardiopulmonary Bypass for Open Heart Surgery: A Randomized Clinical Trial

This randomized clinical trial examined whether nitric oxide (NO) administered during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) improves neurodevelopmental and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes in infants undergoing open heart surgery. Conducted across six centers, the study followed 927 infants at 12 months post-surgery. Results showed no significant differences in neurodevelopment or HRQOL between the NO and standard CPB groups, suggesting NO does not enhance long-term neurological outcomes.

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Robot

Perioperative Mechanical Circulatory Support: Transitioning from Sequential to Parallel Recovery

This editorial explores the evolution of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) in perioperative cardiac care. It discusses advancements in venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) and micro-axial flow pumps, highlighting the shift from sequential to parallel recovery. The article emphasizes early MCS intervention, left ventricular unloading, and minimizing adverse events. Insights from the DanGer Shock trial suggest improved survival with early MCS use, but further research is needed for perioperative applications.

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