Perfusionseinheit

Perfusionseinheit, also known as a perfusion unit, refers to a medical device or system used to maintain the circulation of blood or other fluids through organs or tissues outside the body. This process is crucial in various medical procedures, including organ transplantation, cardiac surgery, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The primary function of a perfusionseinheit is to temporarily take over the role of the heart and lungs, ensuring that organs receive adequate oxygen and nutrients while the body is under surgical stress or during organ preservation.

A typical perfusionseinheit consists of several key components. A pump, often a centrifugal or roller pump, circulates the blood or perfusion fluid. An oxygenator adds oxygen to the blood and removes carbon dioxide, mimicking the function of the lungs. A heat exchanger regulates the temperature of the blood, ensuring it remains at physiological levels. Additionally, filters and reservoirs may be included to manage the quality and volume of the perfusate.

Perfusionseinheiten are essential in organ transplantation, where they help preserve organs before transplantation. They are also used during cardiac surgeries, such as heart bypass operations, to maintain blood circulation while the heart is stopped. In ECMO, a perfusionseinheit supports patients with severe heart or lung failure by temporarily taking over these organs' functions.

The use of perfusionseinheiten has significantly advanced medical procedures, improving patient outcomes and enabling complex surgeries. Continuous advancements in technology and techniques further enhance the efficacy and safety of these systems, making them indispensable in modern medicine.