Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 31, 2026
07:30
In Vitro Model of Physiological and Pathological Blood Flow with Application to Investigations of Vascular Cell Remodeling
Published on: November 3, 2015
The reality of a self-occluding pump head: Case report
Susie Seiferd1, Diane K. Clark, Charles C. Reed
1Perfusion Technology Section, Texas Heart Institute, Houston, Texas.
Cardiovascular Diseases
|December 1, 1981
Summary
A rare oxygenator pumphead malfunction during aortocoronary bypass surgery was successfully corrected. This detailed review aims to increase awareness among perfusionists about this critical event.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Medical Device Technology
- Perfusion Science
Background:
- Aortocoronary bypass surgery is a critical cardiac procedure.
- Cardiopulmonary bypass requires functional oxygenator pumpheads.
- Device malfunctions can pose significant risks during surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare oxygenator pumphead malfunction during aortocoronary bypass surgery.
- To detail the corrective actions taken.
- To enhance awareness among perfusionists regarding potential pumphead failures.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a specific surgical event.
- Description of the oxygenator pumphead malfunction.
- Explanation of the immediate corrective interventions.
Main Results:
- The oxygenator pumphead malfunction was identified and corrected.
- The aortocoronary bypass surgery proceeded without further complications.
- The patient outcome was positive following the intervention.
Conclusions:
- Oxygenator pumphead malfunctions, though rare, can occur during cardiopulmonary bypass.
- Prompt recognition and correction are vital for patient safety.
- Awareness and preparedness are essential for perfusionists managing such critical incidents.
