Frequent measurement of blood chemistry is particularly important during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. Normal practice requires the perfusionist to draw blood samples on a frequent basis during the procedure. With such surgery being carried out on older and sicker patients than has been previously possible, there is growing demand for intensive monitoring of many blood parameters in real time to guide care of the patient.

Sphere is currently working with Sorin, a global company and a leader in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, to develop a system that will provide continuous real time blood monitoring in the bypass circuit. Over 1 million cardiopulmonary bypass procedures are performed each year.