Perfusion Students Learn About Aortic Dissection
Our Chair, Anne Cotton, visited Bristol University to share her aortic dissection patient journey with students on the MSc Perfusion Science course. The session introduced future perfusionists to the realities of diagnosis, surgery, and recovery, and highlighted the essential part they play during life-saving cardiac procedures.
Anne’s talk formed part of the university’s structured teaching programme, which brings lived patient experiences into the classroom to strengthen clinical understanding. The MSc Perfusion Science course prepares students to become perfusionists - specialists who manage heart-lung bypass and keep a patient’s circulation working during major cardiac surgery. Hearing directly from someone affected by aortic dissection offers these trainees invaluable insight into the human impact behind the clinical protocols they study.
During the session, Anne described her journey from the first symptoms through to diagnosis, emergency treatment, and long-term recovery. She emphasised the vital role perfusionists play in supporting surgical teams, maintaining organ function, and helping patients survive the most critical stages of care. The group were highly engaged throughout and asked thoughtful, informed questions about both the clinical process and the patient experience.
This presentation is part of Aortic Dissection Awareness UK & Ireland’s wider effort to educate future clinicians and raise awareness of the condition across the health sector. By helping students understand the signs, risks, and urgency of aortic dissection, the charity aims to improve early recognition and ultimately save lives.
It was delightful to be asked to speak at this event for the third year running, and to encourage these students in their future roles.
Anne Cotton, Chair, Aortic Dissection Awareness UK & Ireland
