THE ROLE OF THE BIOMEDICAL PERFUSIONIST IN CARDIAC SURGERY: SAFETY AND EFFICIENCY IN EXTRACORPOREAL CIRCULATION

Abstract

Extracorporeal circulation (ECC) is a technological resource widely used in medium- and high-complexity cardiac surgeries, enabling the temporary suspension of cardiac and pulmonary functions. In this context, the perfusionist is the professional responsible for assembling, operating, and monitoring the extracorporeal circuit, being essential for maintaining homeostasis during the surgical procedure. This study aimed to analyze, through a literature review, the role of the biomedical perfusionist in cardiac surgeries using ECC, considering operational, educational, and institutional aspects. Thirteen academic publications from 2012 to 2024 were analyzed, including scientific articles, undergraduate theses, and integrative reviews. The results indicate a consolidation of the technical responsibilities of the perfusionist, with emphasis on the control of parameters such as flow, temperature, oxygenation, and anticoagulation. The professional's scope of practice has expanded to non-conventional contexts such as ECMO and HIPEC. However, gaps remain regarding the standardization of training, regulation of professional activity, and academic production specifically focused on biomedical perfusionists. The methodological heterogeneity of the studies and the predominance of descriptive approaches limit the construction of more robust clinical evidence. It is concluded that there is a need to strengthen technical-scientific training, regulatory frameworks, and qualified academic output to consolidate perfusion as a strategic specialty within high-complexity surgical teams.