Perfusionists

A perfusionist is a healthcare professional who operates extracorporeal circulation equipment to support or replace cardiac and respiratory function during surgery and critical care. Working closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists and intensive care teams, perfusionists manage cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) during open heart procedures and provide extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or other mechanical circulatory support when required.

Typical responsibilities include priming and operating heart‑lung machines, regulating blood flow, oxygenation, temperature and acid–base balance, delivering cardioplegia, assisting with weaning from bypass, monitoring anticoagulation, and troubleshooting equipment or physiologic complications. Perfusionists also participate in blood conservation strategies, cell salvage, circuit maintenance, and emergency responses such as pump failure or air embolism management.

Education and credentialing requirements vary by country but commonly involve a bachelor’s degree in a health science, completion of a specialized perfusion training program with clinical internships, and national certification or licensure (for example, certification through national boards and membership in professional societies). Continuing education and adherence to safety protocols are integral to practice.

The profession emerged after mid‑20th century advances in extracorporeal circulation, notably the development of the heart‑lung machine, and has expanded with technologies like ECMO and ventricular assist devices. Professional organizations support standards, training, and research. Scope of practice and regulatory frameworks differ internationally, but perfusionists remain essential members of surgical and critical care teams wherever complex cardiopulmonary support is delivered.