Celebrating Cardiovascular Perfusionists
by Raiili Pellizzari
Cardiovascular perfusionists play a vital and intricate role as integral members of the interprofessional operating room team, working seamlessly alongside cardiac surgeons and anesthesiologists to ensure optimal patient outcomes during complex surgical procedures. Their responsibilities include the management and operation of sophisticated technologies such as the heart-lung machine, which is crucial for conducting cardiopulmonary bypass — a process that temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs during surgery.
In celebration of National Perfusion Week (May 5-9), we take great pride in honouring the exceptional skill and dedication of cardiovascular perfusionists, whose expertise plays a crucial role in patient care. This week, we spotlight four remarkable staff members who will join our team at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC). These talented professionals are poised to make significant contributions as they prepare for the highly anticipated launch of the Cardiovascular Surgery Program in early 2028. Their commitment to advancing healthcare and improving patient outcomes exemplifies the spirit of excellence we aspire to in our facilities.
Scott Longridge completed the Cardiovascular Perfusion Program at the Michener Institute of Education at the University Health Network (UHN) in March 2018. He has dedicated many years to Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) and currently applies his expertise at the Peter Munk Cardiac Centre (PMCC) at UHN, one of Canada’s leading cardiac care institutions, allowing Scott to further refine his expertise in a collaborative environment that prioritizes patient outcomes and innovative practices in cardiac health.
We would like to take a moment to recognize Amanda Sanche, who embarked on the two-year cardiovascular perfusion studies at the Michener Institute of Education at the UHN in September 2023. Throughout her rigorous academic journey, Amanda has demonstrated exceptional dedication and resilience, culminating in her recent completion of a Master of Science degree in Cardiovascular Perfusion. Starting this month, Amanda will transition into her first professional role as a Cardiovascular Perfusionist at the PMCC, where she will play a crucial role in supporting patients undergoing complex cardiac surgeries. With this significant achievement, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Amanda for her hard work and commitment to advancing her career in cardiovascular medicine. We wish her all the best as she embarks on this exciting new chapter.
In September 2024, Grace Lovis embarked on her first year in the highly regarded Cardiovascular Perfusion Program at the Michener Institute of Education at UHN. With a strong commitment to academic excellence and a deep passion for patient care, Grace is poised to develop the critical skills necessary for this demanding field. Her dedication, paired with her determination to contribute positively to the healthcare team, positions her to become an invaluable asset to our organization upon the successful completion of her training.
With years of critical care experience, Eve Dillion has recently been accepted as the final staff member to join the Cardiovascular Perfusion Program at the Michener Institute of Education at UHN for the 2025/2026 academic year. Alongside her peers, she will embark on the journey to earn her Master of Science degree in Cardiovascular Perfusion, equipping her with the expertise to support patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery. Congratulations to Eve on this outstanding achievement.
The collective dedication to learning, expertise, and commitment to delivering safe and comprehensive perfusion therapy that these individuals embody will be invaluable to the TBRHSC and the diverse patient population we serve. As they prepare to contribute to our cardiovascular program, we extend our best wishes and look forward to welcoming them to our team.
Join us this week in acknowledging and appreciating the essential work that perfusionists undertake in the operating room, where their skills and knowledge significantly impact patient survival and recovery.
Learn more about cardiovascular perfusion at these online resources:
