How has the heart/lung machine changed health care, patients, and medical professionals?
Since this is not my area of expertise, I'll give you information, so you can decide for yourself. I searched Google under the key words "heart lung machine" to get these possible sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heart-lung_machine
http://www.hsforum.com/stories/storyReader$1486
http://heart.health.ivillage.com/bypasssurgery/heart-lungmachine.cfm
http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/blheartlungmachine.htm
http://www.answers.com/topic/cardiac-pump
I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.
The heart/lung machine, also known as the cardiopulmonary bypass machine, is a device used in cardiac surgery to temporarily take over the functions of the heart and lungs. It is used during procedures such as open-heart surgery, where the heart needs to be stopped in order for the surgeon to operate on it.
The heart/lung machine has greatly changed healthcare, patients, and medical professionals in several ways:
1. Improved Success in Cardiac Surgery: The heart/lung machine has revolutionized the field of cardiac surgery by allowing surgeons to perform complex procedures that were not previously possible. It provides a way to bypass the heart and lungs, allowing the surgeon to operate on a stationary heart. This has greatly increased the success rates of cardiac surgeries and has saved countless lives.
2. Extended Operating Time: The heart/lung machine allows surgeons to operate on the heart for an extended period of time, as it takes over the function of circulating oxygenated blood to the body. This has allowed for more complex and intricate procedures to be performed, which were previously not feasible due to the limited time the heart could be stopped.
3. Enhanced Patient Safety: By temporarily taking over the functions of the heart and lungs, the heart/lung machine provides a controlled environment for the surgeon to operate in. It allows for precise control of blood flow, oxygenation, and temperature, ensuring the safety and well-being of the patient during surgery.
4. Training and Education: The heart/lung machine has also had a significant impact on medical professionals. It has become an integral part of medical training, allowing surgeons and other healthcare professionals to gain hands-on experience in cardiac surgical procedures. This has led to improved skills and expertise in the field of cardiac surgery.
5. Technological Advancements: Over the years, the heart/lung machine has undergone significant technological advancements, leading to the development of more sophisticated and efficient devices. These advancements have further improved patient outcomes, reduced complications, and shortened recovery times.
In summary, the heart/lung machine has revolutionized cardiac surgery by providing a means to temporarily bypass the heart and lungs, allowing surgeons to perform complex procedures. It has improved patient safety, extended operating times, and facilitated the training and education of medical professionals. Technological advancements continue to enhance the capabilities of this life-saving device.