perfusionist

A perfusionist is a specialized healthcare professional who operates the heart-lung machine during surgeries that involve opening the heart, such as bypass procedures. This machine temporarily takes over the functions of the heart and lungs, circulating and oxygenating the blood while the surgeon operates. Perfusionists monitor and adjust the machine throughout the procedure to ensure the patient’s blood circulation remains stable and that organs receive the necessary oxygen and nutrients. They play a critical role in ensuring patient safety during complex cardiac surgeries by managing extracorporeal circulation effectively.