Highlights of the Sixteenth International Conference on Pediatric Mechanical Circulatory Support Systems and Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Perfusion

Abstract

Summarized herein are the highlights of this unique symposium which brought together members of the scientific community utilizing a virtual platform.The primary objective of all 16 International Conferences on Pediatric Mechanical Circulatory Support Systems and Pediatric Cardiopulmonary Perfusion has been to create a platform to exchange scientific data in the interest of improving the outcomes of pediatric heart failure patients and complex congenital heart surgery patients who rely upon acute or chronic mechanical circulatory support (MCS). In particular, participants are encouraged to emphasize both positive and negative experiences with the devices and techniques, so that lessons can be shared, and mistakes will not be repeated case after case in these most fragile patient populations. We are proud that many new clinical and research collaborations have been started around the globe as a result of the unique, collegial, and approachable atmosphere shared among key experts and participants during our past 16 events. All local organizers have also offered hands-on experiences in their state-of-art simulation facilities with new Cardiopulmonary Bypass (CPB), Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), and Ventricular Assist Device (VAD) equipment and techniques, along with special tours of neonatal and pediatric intensive care units. These one-to-one training opportunities with the experts from high-volume centers in this underserved field may significantly impact the outcomes of heart failure and complex heart disease patients around the globe.