Cardiovascular Perfusion Technology: About the Program

The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) has placed Drexel University's Cardiovascular Perfusion Program on probation effective May 18, 2007. The College of Nursing & health Professions is working to correct the noted deficiencies.

A perfusionist is a skilled, allied health professional, trained and educated specifically as a member of an open-heart, surgical team, responsible for the selection, set-up, and operation of a mechanical device commonly referred to as the heart-lung machine. During open heart surgery, when the patients' heart is immobilized and cannot function in a normal fashion while the operation is being performed the patient's blood is diverted and circulated outside the body through the heart lung machine and returned again to the patient. In effect, the machine assumes the function of both the heart and lungs. The perfusionist is responsible for operating the machine during surgery, monitoring the altered circulatory process closely, taking appropriate corrective action when abnormal situations arise and keeping both the surgeon and anesthesiologist fully informed. In addition to operating the heart lung machine during surgery, perfusionists often function in supportive roles for other medical specialties e.g., operating mechanical devices to assist in the conservation of blood and blood products during surgery and providing extended, long-term support of patients' circulation outside of the operating room environment.

Since its inception in 1990, the Cardiovascular Perfusion Technology Program has been dedicated to producing qualified and competent clinical perfusionists whose skills are enhanced by a strong academic foundation. Perfusion technology is the combined application of the knowledge of the cardiopulmonary system and complex technology to the maintenance of life during any medical situation where it is necessary to support or temporarily replace the patient's circulatory or respiratory function. Students in this program will become knowledgeable concerning the variety of equipment available to perform extracorporeal circulation functions and the techniques which will be used throughout their academic and clinical education at various clinical rotation sties within the Philadelphia region, including Temple University, Lower Bucks Hospital, Hospital University of Pennsylvania, Abington Memorial Hospital, and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

While cardiovascular perfusion is a relatively new occupation, cardiovascular surgery procedures are now universally encountered, increasingly complex and diverse. Although today's perfusionist may be clinically active in many areas, cardiovascular bypass for elective heart surgery remains the primary modality. Familiarization with a patient's medical history and current laboratory results, development of a plan to conduct and provide perfusion support, selection and interpretation of appropriate diagnostic tests, and administration of blood products and pharmacologic agents, as needed, comprise the perfusionist's role.

Please Note: This Program is offered in quarter credits, not semester credits. One semester credit is equal to 1.5 quarter credits, therefore a Bachelors degree worth 120 semester credits is equal to 180 quarter credits.