£1m investment in new heart and lung machines helps 'future-proof' cardiac surgery in Swansea Bay

Patients undergoing major heart surgery are set to benefit from a £1 million investment in new, state-of-the-art equipment at Morriston Hospital.

The perfusion department of cardiac surgery has received four new heart and lung machines, funded by Welsh Government.

Also known as cardiopulmonary bypass pumps, the machines temporarily take over the function of the heart and lungs during open-heart surgery. This allows surgeons to perform complex, life-saving procedures safely.

Operated by specialist, highly skilled perfusionists, the machines circulate and oxygenate the blood, remove carbon dioxide, regulate temperature, and manage clotting medications.

Perfusionists also monitor vital signs, including blood gases and electrolytes, to keep patients stable throughout surgery.

This technology is essential for procedures such as coronary artery bypass grafts and heart valve replacements when the heart must be temporarily stopped.

The new machines replace equipment more than 15 years old, which had become increasingly costly and difficult to maintain.

Senior Clinical Perfusionist, Ian Bennett, said: “Our previous machines had served us well, but they were showing obvious signs of age.

“Maintenance costs were rising and replacement parts were becoming difficult to source. We’ve even had to use one machine for spare parts to keep the others running.

“With two cardiac theatres operating, having limited equipment created additional challenges. These new machines give us improved reliability and resilience, which is vital for such a critical service.

“It is also great the Welsh Government thought well enough of us to make this investment in Swansea Bay.”

The new technology offers enhanced monitoring capabilities, more sensitive software and touchscreen interfaces, enabling more accurate, real-time data collection during procedures.

This reduces the need for manual input and helps minimise the risk of human error, further improving patient safety.

The machines were chosen following a comprehensive evaluation process to ensure best value for money and long-term benefit.

While staff have had to adapt to the new systems, the benefits are already being realised.

“It has been a learning curve, but the advantages are clear,” added Ian. “We now have greater control and visibility during procedures, with more precise monitoring that supports both patient care and ongoing quality improvement.”

Morriston Hospital is a major cardiac centre serving Swansea Bay and a large area of mid and west Wales, delivering a wide range of routine, complex and emergency procedures.

Three of the replaced machines will be sold at auction, with funds returned to the health board, while another will support academic research.

This significant investment ensures cardiac teams in Swansea Bay are equipped with modern, reliable technology to continue delivering high-quality care now and into the future.