Alex Hank, MS, CCP Pediatric Perfusionist | Cardiopulmonary Bypass and Mechanical Circulatory Support
Alex Hank, MS, CCP, is a pediatric perfusionist specializing in cardiopulmonary bypass and mechanical circulatory support for children. Her expertise spans pediatric cardiac surgery, heart transplantation, and advanced perfusion strategies, including modified ultrafiltration, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and ventricular assist devices (VADs). Alex is dedicated to providing research-driven, evidence-based care for the most complex pediatric cardiac patients.
Clinical Expertise
Alex’s specialized areas of practice include:
- Pediatric cardiac surgery and cardiopulmonary bypass management
- Heart transplantation and normothermic regional perfusion
- ECMO and ventricular assist devices (VADs) in pediatric cardiac surgery
- Modified ultrafiltration and nitric oxide utilization
- Low-prime circuit techniques and blood conservation strategies
- Integration of emerging perfusion technologies in pediatric care
Education and Professional Background
Alex earned her Master of Science in Cardiovascular Perfusion from the Medical University of South Carolina in 2020. She began her career in Atlanta, Georgia, where she focused exclusively on pediatric perfusion and developed a strong foundation in innovation and research-based care.
She currently serves as a Pediatric Perfusionist at Intermountain Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Teaching and Professional Development
In addition to her clinical role, Alex is actively involved in teaching and mentoring future perfusionists. She mentors students from multiple perfusion training programs and has been invited to present at AmSECT and several regional and national conferences.
Alex is also beginning a teaching role at the University of Utah, where she combines her clinical expertise with her passion for education and innovation in pediatric cardiac care.
Research Interests
Alex’s research interests include:
- Mechanical circulatory support and VAD technology in children
- ECMO and blood conservation strategies
- Circuit miniaturization and low-prime systems for neonatal and infant patients
- Outcomes optimization in pediatric heart transplantation and cardiac surgery
Personal Statement
“In my practice, I recognize that perfusion plays a vital role not only in the immediate success of surgery but also in shaping each child’s long-term health and quality of life. My goal is to provide compassionate, precise, and evidence-based care for every patient and family who entrust us with their hearts.”
Professional Involvement
Alex is an active member of the American Society of Extracorporeal Technology (AmSECT) and continues to contribute to the advancement of pediatric perfusion through research, mentorship, and professional collaboration.
Personal Interests
Outside of work, Alex enjoys hiking, skiing, and spending time with her two red golden retrievers exploring Utah’s mountains.