Pre-Clinical Perfusion Science

A clinical perfusionist is a skilled health professional trained and educated specifically as a member of an open-heart surgical team. As a clinical perfusion scientist, you will assist a cardiac surgeon to select, setup and operate the heart-lung machine. You will be at the forefront of research and innovation, operating a number of highly technical mechanical and electronic devices to ensure oxygen continues to reach the patient’s body through the blood while their lungs and heart are temporarily nonfunctioning.

Advances in cardiovascular medicine, such as the use of ventricular assist devices, the total artificial heart and coronary angiography and angioplasty have increased the demand for clinical perfusionists. Many perfusion scientists work in hospital settings and are employed either by hospitals, individual surgeons, surgical groups or private health care corporations. Some experienced perfusionists may find career opportunities working for companies that manufacture perfusion supplies and equipment. If you choose that route, you might work in research and development, marketing or sales, rather than as a perfusionist in the field.

Concordia University, Nebraska’s pre-clinical perfusion science program partners with many local hospitals, clinics and organizations that offer hands-on internships and volunteer experiences, so you can observe professional perfusionists. Concordia’s on-campus state-of-the-art science facilities will allow you the workspace you need to become proficient in laboratory procedures and scientific principles.

Clinical perfusion scientists are in high demand, as the field is small but critical. At Concordia Nebraska, you will be prepared with the basic scientific and medical knowledge you will need to continue your education and save lives as a clinical perfusionist.

Pre-Clinical Perfusion Courses