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Perfusion safety: past, present, and future
1Perfusion Department, Lehigh Valley Hospital, Allentown, PA 18105, USA.
Summary
Cardiopulmonary bypass safety has improved with technology, but perfusionists require ongoing education and vigilance for optimal patient outcomes. The field emphasizes formalized training and national standardization for enhanced safety.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Medical Device Technology
- Perfusion Science
Background:
- Safe cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) has been critical since the 1950s.
- Early CPB circuits were complex, with safety advancements lagging behind circuit simplification.
- Surveys identified areas needing improvement in CPB safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolution of cardiopulmonary bypass safety.
- To highlight the changing role and training of the perfusionist.
- To discuss the impact of technology on CPB safety.
Main Methods:
- Historical review of cardiopulmonary bypass technology and safety features.
- Analysis of perfusionist training and accreditation standards.
- Discussion of technological advancements influencing CPB safety devices.
Main Results:
- CPB safety has progressed, driven by technological integration.
- Perfusionist training has advanced from on-the-job to formal certification and accreditation.
- New technologies enhance safety devices and feedback mechanisms in perfusion circuits.
Conclusions:
- Cardiopulmonary bypass is becoming increasingly safer.
- Continuous education and vigilance for perfusionists are essential.
- National standardization of perfusion practices is emerging.