International Perfusion Association

Category: Technology

VA ECMO

A Comparative Study of Femoral Artery and Combined Femoral and Axillary Artery Cannulation in Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Patients

This study investigates the clinical outcomes of two cannulation strategies—femoral artery (FA) cannulation and combined femoral and axillary artery (FA+AA) cannulation—in patients receiving veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) after cardiac surgery. The FA+AA group showed significant benefits in reducing chronic renal failure, platelet drop, and creatinine levels. Despite similar 30-day mortality rates, the combined approach led to fewer complications and faster recovery.

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Lung Ventilation

Low Frequency Ventilation During Cardiopulmonary Bypass to Protect Postoperative Lung Function in Cardiac Valvular Surgery: The PROTECTION Phase II Randomized Trial

This trial assessed the safety and efficacy of low frequency ventilation (LFV) during cardiopulmonary bypass in patients undergoing valvular surgery. Sixty-three patients were randomized, and results showed LFV was associated with improved lung-specific biomarker levels and better-preserved lung function, including respiratory tests and walking ability. The study demonstrated LFV’s potential to protect lung function post-surgery, warranting further investigation in larger studies.

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Special K

Extraction of Ketamine and Dexmedetomidine by Extracorporeal Life Support Circuits

This study investigated the extraction of ketamine and dexmedetomidine by extracorporeal life support (ECLS) circuits such as ECMO and CRRT. Using an ex-vivo system, drug concentrations were measured over time in blood-primed circuits. Results showed significant reductions in drug recovery, with ketamine recovering only 43.8% from ECMO and 3.3% from CRRT after several hours. Dexmedetomidine recovery was similarly reduced, highlighting the need for dosage adjustments during ECLS support.

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Haemoadsorption

Impact of Extracorporeal Haemoadsorption During Prolonged Cardiopulmonary Bypass on the Incidence of Acute Kidney Injury

This study investigates the effects of haemoadsorption (HA) therapy on inflammatory markers and renal damage indices during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and the early postoperative period. Conducted at a single tertiary care center, the retrospective analysis compared three groups of patients who underwent CPB for over 120 minutes. The results showed that haemoadsorption therapy did not significantly reduce the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) but decreased the need for renal replacement therapy.

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ECMO Neuro Monitoring

Multimodal Neurologic Monitoring in Patients Undergoing Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

This study investigates the safety and feasibility of noninvasive multimodal neurologic monitoring (MNM) in patients undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center. The observational study spanned from January 2017 to February 2019 and included patients undergoing ECMO. Results showed that MNM was safe and feasible, with no adverse events reported. Specific EEG and transcranial Doppler (TCD) findings were identified that could help in early detection of neurologic deterioration. MNM may aid in monitoring, prognostication, and clinical decision-making for ECMO patients.

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Cyber Security

LivaNova Reports Cyberattack Compromising US Patients’ Data

LivaNova, a medical technology company, has reported a cyberattack on its U.S. subsidiary, compromising personal data of its patients. Detected on November 19, 2023, the breach involved unauthorized access to data including Social Security numbers, medical details, and contact information. The company has taken remedial action, offered identity protection services, and advises affected individuals to monitor their accounts and credit reports for fraud.

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Critical Care Advances

21st Century Critical Care Medicine: An Overview

Critical care medicine has made significant advancements in the 21st century, notably improving patient outcomes in ICUs. Innovations such as Precision Medicine, Telemedicine, AI-driven tools, advanced Organ Support, new Infection Control tactics, refined Ventilation Strategies, and enhanced Sepsis Management reflect a dynamic landscape. These developments prioritize technology, research, and patient-centered approaches, showcasing a promising future for addressing modern medical challenges.

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Online Education

Examining Online International Health Professions Education: A Mixed Methods Review of Barriers, Facilitators, and Early Outcomes

This study explores the feasibility and effectiveness of delivering Cardiovascular Perfusion education online to international students. Through mixed methods, barriers and facilitators to online health professions education were identified, informing the development of a novel online Extracorporeal Science (ECS) program. The first semester’s outcomes showed no significant difference in student performance or satisfaction compared to traditional in-person programs, highlighting the potential of online education to equalize access to healthcare education globally. The findings suggest that, with careful planning and incorporation of student feedback, online international education can achieve outcomes comparable to those of conventional programs.

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Apple VR

Apple Vision Pro Initial Perfusionist Review

The Apple Vision Pro, with its advanced visual and audio capabilities, offers potential applications in the medical field, including enhanced training, therapeutic tools, and surgical assistance. However, its high cost and potential discomfort during extended use are significant considerations that may limit its widespread adoption in healthcare settings.

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