Heart-lung machine focus of May 7 Omaha Science Cafe

by Lisa Spellman, UNMC public relations
May 03, 2013

David Holt, program director for clinical perfusion at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, will discuss the mystery, science and art of the heart-lung machine at the next Omaha Science Cafe at 7 p.m. on May 7 at the Slowdown, 729 N. 14th St.

David Holt

A UNMC educator and practitioner in the field, Holt will discuss how the mechanical technology supporting life in many hospital cardiac procedures was born of necessity, evolved from trial and error, and even today continues a rapid technological evolution.

"There is mystery in applications that have been newly discovered in the decades since its relatively recent birth. Even the fundamentals, which are as rigid as could be imagined, have an artistic eloquence to those specially trained to manage it," Holt said.

Holt is a licensed perfusionist in the state of Nebraska and has practiced and taught clinical perfusion for more than three decades. He is certified by the International Board of Clinical Technologies, is a master perfusionist recognized by the state of Missouri and a licensed adult educator in Ohio.

Science Cafes involve a face-to-face conversation with a scientist about current science topics. They are open to everyone (21 and older) and take place in casual settings like pubs and coffeehouses. Each meeting is organized around an interesting topic of conversation. A scientist gives a brief presentation followed by a question-and-answer period.

Pizza will be provided by The Nebraska Coalition for Lifesaving Cures for the first 50 people.