The Perfusion Department is a vital component of any college that offers cardiac care education or training in cardiothoracic surgery support. It is dedicated to teaching and training future clinical perfusionists who will be responsible for managing extracorporeal circulation during procedures where the heart or lungs are temporarily non-functional.

The department prepares students to become certified clinical perfusionists, equipping them with the skills required to operate the heart-lung machine and other advanced circulatory support devices. These professionals play a critical role in open-heart surgeries, such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve repairs and replacements, heart transplants, and correction of congenital heart defects.

During these surgeries, perfusionists take over the function of the patient’s heart and lungs using the cardiopulmonary bypass machine. This device oxygenates and circulates blood throughout the body, ensuring that tissues and organs receive adequate oxygen even when the heart is stopped.

In addition to training students on the heart-lung machine, the department provides education on managing other life-sustaining technologies such as intra-aortic balloon pumps (IABP), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and ventricular assist devices (VADs). These devices are used in both operative and intensive care settings for patients experiencing severe heart or lung failure.

The primary objectives of the Perfusion Department in a college setting include:

• Teaching the operation and monitoring of cardiopulmonary bypass during surgery.
• Educating students on regulating blood gases, acid-base balance, temperature, and electrolyte levels.
• Training on the administration of blood products and medications during bypass.
• Providing knowledge and simulation-based training on mechanical circulatory and respiratory support in critical care units.
• Ensuring students understand the maintenance and sterilization of perfusion equipment.

The department works in close coordination with other academic units such as cardiac surgery, anesthesiology, critical care, and nursing, to ensure interdisciplinary education and training. Perfusion students are taught to respond quickly to changes in patient condition and to make critical decisions under pressure. Precision, vigilance, and technical expertise are emphasized throughout the curriculum.

Beyond academic instruction, the department also engages in:

• The training and mentorship of perfusion students and junior staff.
• Clinical research aimed at improving outcomes and advancing perfusion techniques.
• Quality assurance, safety training, and adherence to healthcare regulations and standards.

The Perfusion Department is committed to promoting patient safety, technological innovation, and the highest standards of clinical excellence. As cardiac procedures grow more complex, the educational role of the department continues to expand, preparing students for roles in both surgical and intensive care environments.

By ensuring strong foundational knowledge and hands-on experience in cardiopulmonary support, the Perfusion Department plays a central role in training competent professionals who contribute to successful cardiac care and improved patient outcomes.