B.Sc. Cardiopulmonary Perfusion Care Technology

B.Sc. Cardiopulmonary Perfusion Care Technology

About the Course

The Bachelor of Science in Cardiopulmonary Perfusion Care Technology is a specialized four-year undergraduate program (three years of academic study and one year of internship) focused on training students in operating heart-lung machines and other life-supporting devices during major surgeries, particularly cardiac and thoracic procedures.

A Perfusionist is a vital member of the surgical team, responsible for managing the patient’s physiological and metabolic needs during open-heart surgery and other complex procedures that require cardiopulmonary bypass. This course prepares students with the scientific knowledge and technical expertise required to assist surgeons in ensuring safe and effective outcomes during such high-risk surgeries.

About the Department

The Department of Cardiopulmonary Perfusion Care Technology at Arunai Paramedical College operates in close integration with the Cardiothoracic Surgery Unit at Arunai Medical College & Hospital. The department is committed to producing highly skilled perfusion technologists capable of functioning confidently in high-pressure surgical environments.

With expert faculty, including perfusionists, anesthesiologists, and cardiovascular surgeons, students are trained to handle state-of-the-art perfusion equipment and understand the intricate physiological dynamics of the heart and lungs. The department emphasizes intensive clinical exposure, live case observations, and practical learning in real-time operation theatre settings.

Students are also guided on patient safety, communication skills, ethical practice, and emergency response protocols.

Curriculum & Academic Coverage

The program follows the academic guidelines of The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University. It includes foundational sciences, advanced perfusion concepts, and supervised clinical practice.

Core areas of learning include
  • Anatomy and Physiology of the Cardiopulmonary System
  • Pathophysiology of Cardiovascular and Respiratory Disorders
  • Principles of Perfusion Technology
  • Extracorporeal Circulation and Bypass Techniques
  • Operation of Heart-Lung Machines
  • Monitoring Techniques during Surgery
  • Blood Gas and Acid-Base Balance Analysis
  • Pharmacology related to Cardiopulmonary Care
  • Organ Transplant Perfusion Support
  • Intensive Care and Post-Operative Monitoring

The final year internship includes hands-on training in:

  • Open-heart surgery support
  • Cardiopulmonary bypass monitoring
  • Administration of medications and anesthetic agents via bypass circuits
  • Troubleshooting of perfusion-related equipment
  • Intra-operative communication with surgical and anesthesia teams

Evaluation is through theoretical exams, practical assessments, clinical logs, and viva-voce sessions.

Career Opportunities

Graduates in Cardiopulmonary Perfusion Technology are in high demand in multispecialty hospitals, heart institutes, and surgical centers. They play a critical role in cardiac surgeries, organ transplants, and critical care units.

Career pathways include
  • Perfusion Technologist in Cardiac Surgery Units
  • Cardiothoracic Surgery Assistant
  • Specialist in Organ Transplant and ECMO Support
  • Critical Care Team Member in ICU / CCU
  • Perfusion Equipment Trainer or Technical Consultant
  • Clinical Application Specialist in Medical Device Companies
  • Instructor or Lecturer in Paramedical Colleges

Perfusionists can also pursue advanced certifications or postgraduate studies in perfusion technology, critical care, or cardiac sciences. International healthcare systems, especially in countries like the USA, Canada, and Gulf nations, offer rewarding career opportunities to experienced perfusion technologists.