Modalities in Perfusion Practice - PerfWeb 111 Day 1 | March 18, 2026

PerfWeb 111 – Day 1 explores the breadth of modalities falling under the perfusion umbrella, including cardiopulmonary bypass, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and mechanical circulatory support. The session also addresses what competent surgeons seek in perfusionists, focusing on technical proficiency, anticipatory decision-making, and effective communication during cardiac procedures. This content helps perfusionists refine their role within surgical teams, addressing gaps in interdisciplinary alignment that can impact patient safety and procedural efficiency.
Learning Objectives

Identify core modalities within perfusion practice, such as ECMO configurations and ventricular assist device management.
Differentiate between standard and advanced perfusion techniques applicable to diverse cardiac surgeries.
Evaluate surgeon expectations for perfusionist performance, including circuit readiness and intraoperative troubleshooting.
Apply strategies to anticipate surgical needs during high-risk phases like weaning from bypass.
Interpret team dynamics to improve communication and reduce errors in the operating room.
Assess personal competency against surgeon-preferred traits like adaptability and attention to detail.
Develop protocols for integrating new modalities into existing perfusion services.

Content Overview
The session starts with a comprehensive review of modalities under the perfusion umbrella, categorizing services from routine cardiopulmonary bypass to specialized support like venoarterial ECMO for cardiogenic shock or isolated limb perfusion. Speakers discuss regulatory definitions from bodies like the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP), emphasizing how these modalities extend beyond the operating room into critical care.
Transitioning to surgeon perspectives, the discussion examines qualities valued in perfusionists, such as precise flow management, rapid response to hemodynamic changes, and proactive circuit adjustments. Real-world examples illustrate mismatches between perfusionist actions and surgeon expectations, highlighting areas like air handling protocols and temperature control during deep hypothermic circulatory arrest.
The program then integrates these topics, offering frameworks for perfusionists to self-assess and adapt. Case-based scenarios demonstrate how understanding surgeon preferences enhances outcomes in complex repairs, with emphasis on documentation and post-procedure debriefs to foster continuous improvement.

Cardiopulmonary bypass as foundational perfusion modality
ECMO variants: venovenous for respiratory failure, venoarterial for cardiac support
Mechanical circulatory support including intra-aortic balloon pumps and Impella devices
Isolated organ perfusion techniques for oncology applications
Autotransfusion and cell salvage systems
Regulatory scope under ABCP guidelines
Surgeon expectations for circuit priming and anticoagulation management
Anticipating needs during aortic cross-clamping and release
Handling intraoperative emergencies like massive air embolism
Communication protocols in hybrid OR environments
Adaptability to minimally invasive cardiac surgery
Attention to detail in monitoring mixed venous saturation
Team debriefing after complex cases
Integrating perfusion modalities with surgical planning
Competency assessment tools for perfusionists

PerfWeb 111 – Day 1 clarifies the perfusion umbrella while aligning practitioner skills with surgeon demands, offering evidence-aware strategies for role optimization. Perfusionists acquire methods to enhance technical execution and team integration, directly contributing to procedural success. This focused discussion delivers applicable value, supporting sustained competence in evolving cardiac care environments.
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