American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP) Board Practice Exam 2025 - Free Cardiovascular Perfusion Practice Questions and Study Guide

The Maquet RotaFlow is recognized for having the smallest prime volume among the listed centrifugal pumps. Prime volume refers to the amount of fluid that must be filled or "primed" within the pump to operate effectively, which is crucial for minimizing the risk of air bubbles and ensuring smooth operation during a perfusion procedure.

In the context of perfusion, a smaller prime volume is advantageous as it reduces the amount of priming fluid required before initiating bypass, thereby limiting the hemodilution of the patient's blood and minimizing the volume of non-blood components introduced into the circulation. This can enhance patient outcomes by preserving blood viscosity and improving overall hemodynamic stability.

Other pumps, while also well-regarded in the field, generally have larger prime volumes, making them less favorable in situations where minimizing priming volume is critical. The choice of pump often depends on specific clinical circumstances, but when it comes to prime volume, the Maquet RotaFlow stands out.