Blood Management and Hemolysis Risk Study in Children Undergoing Heart Surgery Using Cardio-Pulmonary Bypass

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying blood management in children under 18 years old who undergo heart surgery with cardio-pulmonary bypass. The study aims to understand the best amounts and types of blood products to use during these surgeries and to develop a mathematical model that could help predict and treat patients needing blood transfusions in this setting. The study is observational and involves collecting discarded blood samples taken from routine clinical labs during and after heart surgery at Boston Childrens Hospital. These samples will be used to assess intraoperative hemolysis, which is the breakdown of red blood cells, using plasma free hemoglobin measurements during cardio-pulmonary bypass. Additionally, the study will examine hemolysis in vitro by co-incubating salvaged red blood cells with patients plasma compared to their baseline red blood cells. Participants will be monitored during their heart surgery and routine lab work, with researchers analyzing blood samples collected during and after surgery. The main outcome measured is the level of hemolysis during surgery. This study does not involve experimental treatments but focuses on careful observation and modeling, with the overall goal of improving blood transfusion management for pediatric heart surgery patients. The study is expected to run until the end of 2026.

Modeling Blood Management and Hemolytic Risk in Pediatric Heart Surgery