The session starts with a comprehensive review of modalities under the perfusion umbrella, categorizing services ranging from routine cardiopulmonary bypass to specialized support such as venoarterial ECMO for cardiogenic shock or isolated limb perfusion. Speakers discuss regulatory definitions from bodies such as the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP), emphasizing that these modalities extend beyond the operating room into critical care. Transitioning to surgeon perspectives, the discussion examines qualities valued in perfusionists, such as precise flow management, rapid response to hemodynamic changes, and proactive circuit adjustments. Real-world examples illustrate mismatches between perfusionists' actions and surgeons' expectations, highlighting areas such as air-handling protocols and temperature control during deep hypothermic circulatory arrest. The program then integrates these topics, offering frameworks for perfusionists to self-assess and adapt. Case-based scenarios demonstrate how understanding surgeon preferences enhances outcomes in complex repairs, with emphasis on documentation and post-procedure debriefs to foster continuous improvement.

PerfWeb 111 Day 1 assesses the potential effects of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) payment policies on perfusionist compensation within hospital systems. This session examines how annual updates to inpatient prospective payment systems and quality-based adjustments constrain hospital budgets, indirectly shaping salary structures and staffing models for cardiovascular perfusion teams. For perfusion leaders, it provides a framework for anticipating fiscal shifts and advocating for sustainable compensation in an era of value-based care. Learning Objectives: Explain the mechanisms of CMS hospital payment systems, including diagnostic-related groups (DRGs) relevant to cardiac procedures. Identify key changes in recent CMS rules that impact reimbursement for perfusion-supported surgeries like coronary artery bypass grafting. Evaluate how hospital revenue pressures from CMS adjustments affect perfusion department budgets and compensation packages. Differentiate between direct and indirect influences of CMS policies on perfusionist salaries, benefits, and on-call stipends. Apply strategies for perfusion services to demonstrate value through cost-efficiency metrics and quality outcomes. Assess negotiation tactics for perfusion contracts in light of hospital fiscal constraints driven by CMS. Develop a plan to monitor upcoming CMS proposals and adapt perfusion practice models accordingly.

PerfWeb 110 – Day 2 examines clinical indications for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and available cannulation options, focusing on evidence-based criteria for initiation in adult patients with refractory cardiac or respiratory failure. This session addresses decision-making in high-acuity scenarios where standard therapies fail, providing perfusionists with tools to assess suitability and select appropriate access strategies. By clarifying when ECMO offers benefit versus risk, the content supports safer implementation in programs managing acute decompensations. Learning Objectives: Identify key clinical conditions, such as severe ARDS or cardiogenic shock, where ECMO provides effective temporary support. Differentiate between venoarterial (VA) and venovenous (VV) ECMO configurations based on underlying pathophysiology. Evaluate patient-specific factors influencing ECMO candidacy, including contraindications and prognostic indicators. Describe common cannulation sites and techniques, including peripheral versus central approaches. Apply strategies to mitigate cannulation-related complications like limb ischemia or recirculation. Interpret hemodynamic and gas exchange parameters to guide initial ECMO setup and adjustments.

PerfWeb 110 – Day 1 focuses on professionalism in managing large perfusion practices and training centers, addressing the unique challenges of high-volume cardiovascular care operations. Speakers examine ethical principles, administrative efficiencies, and educational frameworks that ensure consistent patient safety and team performance amid expanding service lines like extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and complex cardiac surgeries. For perfusion leaders, this content provides tools to align daily operations with professional standards, reducing risks from scaling while promoting long-term program viability. Learning Objectives Define core elements of professionalism in perfusion, including ethical conduct and accountability in high-stakes clinical environments Identify strategies for scaling perfusion services to support increased case volumes without compromising quality or safety Develop protocols for integrating training programs into large practice operations to maintain staff competency Evaluate leadership approaches for managing multidisciplinary teams in busy perfusion centers Apply administrative best practices to handle regulatory compliance, resource allocation, and conflict resolution Assess metrics for measuring professional performance and program success in large-scale perfusion settings

PerfWeb 109 – Day 2 features Joe Basha and Becky Bolkovac in a practical, honest conversation about what perfusion can be: a job, a vocation, a hobby, or a career—and how the way you frame your work impacts burnout, satisfaction, professionalism, and patient care.

They break down the definitions, discuss real-world pressures like workload and call coverage, and explore why team culture and leadership matter—especially in high-stakes environments where the patient must always come first.

PerfWeb 109 – Day 1 continues with a hands-on look at the “Anamotage Table” and how advanced 3D anatomy tools are transforming perfusion education. Host Joe Basha is joined by Ed Delaney (Director, Hofstra Cardiovascular Sciences & Perfusion Medicine / Northwell Health) and Vivian Moreno to explore how real-time cadaver-based visualization enhances anatomy, physiology, circuit planning, and board review.

The discussion highlights how layered, interactive learning helps students connect anatomy to surgery, improves clinical readiness, and complements simulation training—while reinforcing professionalism, accountability, and lifelong learning in perfusion practice.

PerfWeb 109 – Day 1 kicks off with a deep dive into how VR and AR are reshaping perfusion education. Host Joe Basha is joined by Vivian Moreno, Ed Delaney (Director, Perfusion Services, Northwell Health / Program Director, Hofstra), and Marty de Castro (Chief AI Scientist, VIRMEDEX).

They break down how virtual simulation supports earlier clinical readiness, skill repetition, stress inoculation, and objective performance tracking—plus practical details on implementation, costs, and customization. The conversation closes with a look at what’s next for VR-based training and where the technology may be headed.

Explore Harlequin Syndrome — differential hypoxemia seen in peripheral VA-ECMO and complex cardiopulmonary bypass cases — in this in-depth perfusion podcast. We define the hemodynamic and respiratory mechanisms behind the syndrome, review monitoring cues, and outline evidence-based approaches to diagnosis and correction. Designed for perfusionists, intensivists, and ECMO teams seeking clarity on a nuanced but critical clinical issue.