Paediatric perfusion practice in North America: an update

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Pediatric Cardiology
• Medical Technology

Background:

• Previous surveys indicated significant variability in pediatric cardiac surgery practices.
• The landscape of pediatric open-heart surgery has evolved since 1989.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare current pediatric open-heart surgery program demographics with 1989 data.
• To identify trends in equipment selection and perfusion techniques for pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

• A follow-up survey questionnaire was distributed to North American pediatric open-heart surgery programs in August 1994.
• Data collected included program demographics, equipment criteria, and perfusion techniques.
• Responses from 125 hospitals were analyzed and compared to 1989 survey results.

Main Results:

• 110 active pediatric cardiac surgery centers responded, with 43 performing pediatric cardiac transplantation (up from 35 in 1989).
• Total caseloads increased over 8% annually from 1988-1994, with more neonates and infants undergoing surgery.
• A significant trend toward homogeneity in equipment and techniques was observed, with universal use of membrane oxygenation and arterial line filtration.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric cardiac surgery programs have experienced growth and increased specialization.
• There is a clear trend towards standardization of equipment and safety protocols in pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass.
• The findings suggest improved and more consistent care for pediatric patients undergoing open-heart surgery.